Sometimes, travelling within your own backyard is the best holiday option. Not only is it affordable and easy to whiz away for a spontaneous getaway, it's also gorgeous, and there are plenty of hidden gems around the country!
If you're headed on a domestic getaway with your partner, why not make the most of it and explore Australia's backyard with a picnic at one of these picturesque spots?
Mrs Macquarie's Chair, Sydney
This romantic spot offers one of the best vantage points for dazzling views of the Sydney cityscape and Darling Harbour, and is the perfect place to spread a chequered blanket and while away the afternoon. It's located on the eastern edge of the Royal Botanic Gardens, and is a mere 20 minute walk from Circular Quay.
Perch on the giant stone seat known as "Mrs Macquaries Chair", which was carved out of stone for Governor Lachlan Macquarie's wife Elizabeth, who enjoyed the views of the harbour. Find out why as you spread yourself out to admire views as far as Kirribilli House, Pinchgut Island and the Navy dockyards at Woolloomooloo. The spot is well-known and popular with locals and tourists though, so make sure you turn up early!
Wendy's Secret Garden, Sydney
For an idyllic location where you'll feel as if you're worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the city, hunt down Wendy's Secret Garden, located in Lavender Bay. It's open to the public but can be difficult to find, so you could have the place to yourself if you put the effort in!
The garden itself was created by late artist Brett Whiteley's wife Wendy in the backyard of his home, and offers lush flora, winding paths, towering trees and plenty of feathered friends such as kookaburra and owls. Spread out your blanket and enjoy cheeses, breads and dips in a private spot complete with a peek of the ocean in the distance.
Rippon Lea House and Gardens, Melbourne
You'll really get into the spirit of things with a picnic on the manicured lawns of this majestic mansion. The Rippon Lea House and Gardens look as if they have come straight from the pages of a fairytale. There are 14 acres of lawns, mature trees, a glistening lake, an orchard of heritage apples and pears, and the Southern Hemisphere's largest fernery to frame your picnic.
Make like royals and enjoy high tea on the pristine grounds on a sunny afternoon. We recommend cheese and crackers, olives and cupcakes! The gardens are open from September to April each year, so plan your picnic with this in mind.
Simpson Falls, Brisbane
You'll have to head off the beaten track to get to this prime picnic spot, but once you're admiring the gushing waters of Simpson Falls, the uphill climb will all be worth it.
The falls are located in Mount Coot-tha Forest, Brisbane's largest natural area. You won't have time to traverse all 1,500 acres of eucalypt forest, but by taking the Simpsons Falls Track you'll witness one of the best attractions.
Start off at the Simpsons Falls Picnic Area, and head 650 metres up until you reach the falls – this should take around 40 minutes. Have your picnic in the designated picnic area before or after your climb, or pick a private spot near the falls.
Willunga Rose Garden, South Australia
What could be more romantic than a picnic among hundreds of fragrant roses? Visitors to South Australia's Willunga will find this pretty park the perfect picnic possie to enjoy a delicious meal. There are over 700 rose bushes in the gardens, as well as archways, paths and park benches, which have been strategically planted to form a maze.
Wind your way through the confusing paths and find a tranquil spot to settle down, or sprawl on the lush green lawns with your lover for a picnic in floral paradise. Cheers to that!
