With the sun shining down on our brilliant state for the last few weeks, you’ve probably felt a few cravings for sweet summer berries and long afternoons sprawled out on picnic rugs.
South Australia certainly has plenty of beautiful locations for picnics and outdoor lunches, whether you want to stay CBD-based or are keen to venture into the sprawling countryside. We’ve picked five of our favourite picnic locations that really turn it on for visitors in spring, blooming gorgeous flowers and bright green leaves as far as the eye can see.
Barossa Valley
The route to the Barossa is lined with beautiful canola fields that light up the journey and set the mood for the day. Drive further into the Barossa and you have the choice of many towns that offer perfect areas for a picnic like Nuriootpa, Tanunda and Mt Pleasant.
Mt. Lofty Botanic Gardens
Well known for the autumnal spread of foliage lining their pathways, Mt Lofty’s Botanic Gardens are actually just as lush in spring. Sit down on the fresh grass or perch yourself on a rock by a waterfall, and you’re set for views that will take your breath away.
McLaren Vale
The easiest way to hunt for Mclaren Vale picnic locations is to drive into the wine region and wait for that perfect paddock or lake to take your eyes and scream “yes, that’s the spot.” It will happen, and often you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice!
Adelaide Botanic Garden
In the heart of the city, the Adelaide Botanic Garden has much to offer this spring. As well as locking in cooler temperatures underneath the trees (handy when the weather warms up), the whimsical wisteria arch, blooming rose gardens and duck-filled lake keep visitors coming to the Botanic Garden year in year out.
Kuipto Forest
Located in between Mclaren Vale and Willunga, Kuipto Forest provides rolling landscapes full of trees as far as the eye can see. Designated picnic spots are set up for tourists and visitors, but if you adventure off-track you can find some pretty magical spots that will make you forget the city is only a 45-minute drive away. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some native animals scuttering around the place! Just make sure to clean up any rubbish before the critters get to it.
Cover image: Isabela Kodhyat