Places to Picnic in the Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges

See & Do

Picnics offer some of the best dining out options and the Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges are here and ready for you! Grab your picnic rug and leave the rest to our region.

GARDENS GALORE IN THE DANDENONGS

Spring gardens bursting with blossom and daffodils, tulips and colour. Perfect backdrops for selfies, perfect settings for relaxing with friends.

PICNIC WITH A VIEW

Vantage points with 360 degree vistas, as far as the eye can see – even back to the city. These destinations will have you feeling the big sky feels – the perfect antidote to feeling cooped up.

Mt Donna Buang, Warburton (climb the observation tower)
Trig Point, Lysterfield
War Memorial Tower, Kangaroo Ground

AMONG THE VINES

Many wineries have magnificent gardens, manicured lawns and all the feels of views across the vineyard. Perfect conditions for picnics. Find your place here, or try Dominque Portet, Domaine Chandon or some place new on the Alternative Taste Trail on the Melba Highway.

ARTS EVERYWHERE

Montsalvat in Eltham is full of interesting things to see and do and the lovingly tended gardens are the perfect place to pause and picnic in the peaceful grounds. Or try Banksia Park and picnic set amongst the sculptures of Heide Museum of Modern Art and on the banks of the Yarra River.

BY THE WATER, THE LAKE AND THE RIVER

The best thing about waterside destinations is that there are plenty of other activities to enjoy while you picnic – think walks and trails, boating (from paddle boats to sailing), a spot of fishing, and plenty of space to kick a ball, throw a frisbee or chill with your doggo. Take the whole day here:

Maroondah Reservoir Park
Silvan Reservoir
Sugarloaf Reservoir Park
Lillydale Lake
Emerald Lake Park
Yarra River at Warburton
Yarra River at Warrandyte

FORESTS

If flora and fauna is your thing, and the idea of lunching among the giant tree ferns and mountain ash is your ultimate sense of freedom, there are plenty of forest walks and picnic facilities to explore in the Walks and Trails Eguide. Try the Ada Tree Walk into History, The Gawa Wurundjeri Resource Trail or Dee Road picnic ground on the O’Shannassey Aqueduct Trail. The Stiggants Reserve and Warrandyte River Reserve has all amenities available making it a popular spot for large bbq and picnic gatherings. There is Yarra River access and plenty of cafes over the road to get delicious picnic suppliers. Or discover Finns Reserve – nestled by the Yarra River it includes the Wombat Bend playspace and an off lead location so bring your doggo!