The weather is warming up and that means perfect conditions for a day trip with a picnic. What better way to spend a day out than nibbling on some of Tassie’s famous local produce while enjoying some spectacular scenery and that clean, fresh, Tasmanian air.
Tasmania has some of the most amazing picnic places anywhere in country, the biggest concern you may have – is which picnic spot to pick! We’ve taken out all the hard work and pulled together a few great spots for a picnic. But really – anywhere with some lush grass and leafy trees works too.
So pick up your favourite goodies from one of the many local farmers markets in and around Hobart and let’s set off to a beautiful location for a picnic.
Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
Cheese, freshly baked bread, tea (or wine) and blossoms – is there a better picnic combination?
The Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens is an idyllic setting for a picnic. The beautiful garden is home to a large number of unique plants along with the tranquil lily pond and Sub-Antarctic House. Be sure to take some time to wander the garden pre/post picnic. They also have a café if you forget your picnic supplies, where you can sit high and lookout over the garden.
Cascade Gardens
The Cascade Gardens are a popular place for a picnic and family gathering. Located in South Hobart against the rivulet and close to the historic Cascade Brewery, the gardens offer plenty of space to spread out. There’s also the opportunity to pop up the road to the brewery for a little kick-on cold beer if so inclined.
Long Beach Reserve
For those warm summery days, a trip to the beach is a must. If keen to keep things closer to Hobart city, then Long Beach Reserve in Sandy Bay is a great picnic spot. There is plenty of rolling lawn to spread out a picnic rug, onsite barbecues and a great little playground to keep the kids entertained.
Marieville Esplanade
Another great little beach spot close to the city is the picnic area at Marieville Esplanade. The beach beside the picnic area is also dog friendly (off leash) but should be on lead around the barbecue area.
The Springs
The Springs is the section halfway up Mount Wellington where many walking trails can be accessed. While you can picnic at the summit of the mountain, the weather can be a bit unpredictable. The Springs is lovely and sheltered, and when it is cool, you can pop into the public shelter and enjoy the crackling fire. There are also barbecue facilities available for use.
Mount Nelson Signal Station
If you are looking for a picnic spot with views across the Derwent then the Mount Nelson Signal Station is a must-visit. The are has picnic facilities and barbecues for you to enjoy. There is also a little Brasserie in the original head signalman’s house (c. 1897) if you find you need some sweet treats to finish off the feast.
Waterworks Reserve
Tucked away between Mount Nelson and Mount Wellington you will find Waterworks Reserve. First constructed in the 1860s, the Waterworks reservoirs capture the flow of creeks and rivers rising on the higher slopes of Mt Wellington. The expansive lawn area offers plenty of spots to settle in for a picnic with barbecues also available to use. The reserve is very popular for picnics so you will need to book a site ahead of time if you wish to use the public facilities.
Richmond
Richmond Village is one of the most quaint and beautiful villages in Tasmania. The Coal River Valley runs through the town with the historic Richmond Bridge connecting the east and west river banks. These riverbanks offer a beautiful grassy spot for you to enjoy the views and watch the local ducks waddle and paddle around. Pick up some picnic supplies and freshly brewed coffee from one of the local cafes or grocers and enjoy a beautiful day out.
Dru Point Reserve, Margate
Head on out of Hobart City to Dru Point Reserve at Margate for a fun day out. The reserve has great picnic and barbecue facilities along with an access-for-all playground, bike tracks and an off-leash, fenced doggy area. The only thing you’ll need to worry about is cooking those hamburgers to perfection.
Dennes Point Foreshore
Bruny Island has plenty to offer with beautiful beaches, fresh produce and plenty or R&R. Pick up some goodies from the local producers on the island and head North to Dennes Point. This beautiful area looks across to ‘mainland’ Tasmania and has a lovely beach. The Foreshore also has gas barbecue facilities and a jetty that the kids can fish from.
Blackmans Bay
Located 15 minutes south of Hobart, Blackmans Bay is a lovely beachside town. The foreshore has lovely picnic facilities, including barbecues along with swings that the kids can enjoy while the adults enjoy some peace and quite in the sun.
Eaglehawk Neck
Beautiful Eaglehawk Neck is definitely worth a picnic trip. Explore the Tasman Arch, Devils Kitchen and Tessellated Pavement before sitting down to a picnic on the beach.
Fortescue Bay Campground
Fortescue Bay on the Tasman Peninsula is a local favourite for camping. The beautiful sheltered beach is a great place for a summer swim. There are picnic facilities available at the campground for you to enjoy, even if you are not camping. The popular Cape Hauy walking track also starts here so, for the energetic types, you can work off your meal or work for you meal with a lovely coastal hike.
Mount Field National Park
The perfect way to enjoy a picnic followed by some outdoor adventures is at Mount Field National Park. The picnic area near the visitors centre has tables and electric barbecues for you to enjoy. Following your feast, be sure to work off some of the treat with a short stroll to Russell Falls and enjoy one of Tasmania’s most popular waterfalls.
Salmon Ponds
When visiting the Derwent Valley, the Salmon Ponds are a lovely spot to stop and enjoy the scenery. Barbecues are available down near the Plenty River, accessed from the riverside walk. You might even spot a little platypus swimming around in the river. You can even purchase some fish feed so the kids (and adults!) can feed the fish, what a great day out!
Randalls Bay, Cygnet
The beautiful Randalls Bay at Cygnet offers sonic views and prime picnic real estate. There are picnic tables and barbecues for you to enjoy and plenty of space to wander around. Post lunch, enjoy the walk along the Echo Sugarloaf Nature Trail.
Cockle Creek
For those keen for a day out and about in the far south, se sure to visit Cockle Creek. It is also the most southerly point you can drive, meaning that while you are nibbling away on your picnic feast, and looking out to the vast horizon, you will know that there is nothing between you and Antarctica.
Hastings Caves
A picnic followed by some cave exploring? Yes, please!
Hastings Caves are a great place to visit with the family. Work up an appetite by exploring the magical underground chambers before enjoying a barbecue. The area has picnic facilities and barbecues available for visitor use.
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