Warm weather means plenty of time spent outdoors, especially when enjoying meals al fresco. These global destinations serve as inspiration for when picking the next picnic spot this summer- from the beach to the mountains, there is an option for everyone to enjoy.
Provence, France
Hotel Crillon le Brave, a Maisons Pariente property, is the ultimate hotel destination for a Provençal French picnic. Against a backdrop of hypnotically beautiful landscapes sits a wonderful labyrinth of 17th and 18th century buildings, where Crillon le Brave literally merges with the landscape. The hotel consists of around ten ancient Génoise-tiled houses that were acquired over time since 1989, and in the middle stands an age-old olive tree that proudly stands guard of the property. The hotel’s dramatic garden consists of dry stone walls covered in scented climbing plants, flights of stone steps leading to an unexpected and romantic headland, shaded pergolas, a rustic fountain, and grand cypress trees. The property overlooks the surrounding vineyards and picture-perfect Provençal countryside, presenting an idyllic setting for a picnic. The hotel also hotel features a guest experience where the concierge team helps arrange a picnic and the restaurant Chef works with guests to create the menu they desire.
Serengeti, Tanzania
Working closely with award-winning Cape Town-based chef Liam Tomlin, Singita has taken safari dining boldly into the future with fresh ingredients gathered from on-site gardens and innovative menus inspired by the core conservation purpose and a key part of Singita's community and sustainability programs. Picnics can be arranged in many scenic locations across the Serengeti including on the slopes of Sasakwa Hill, with its endless, breathtaking views of the Serengeti plains and wildlife as they visit the nearby watering hole. Guests can stay at Singita Serengeti House, the perfect home away from home for families in the western corridor of Tanzania’s magical Serengeti.
Johannesburg, South Africa
Located in the tranquil, tree-lined suburb of Sandhurst, within minutes of Johannesburg's world-class shopping and business hub, the Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa, is an exclusive 5-star, all suite-hotel situated on 10 acres of magnificent indigenous gardens. The expansive enclosed gardens and property was originally designed as a luxurious, private residential retreat, and was later developed into the ultimate boutique hotel destination of choice for some of the world’s most celebrated personalities. The lush and rolling landscaped garden setting of the hotel spans across the entire 10 acre property and features all indigenous plants, greenery and flora to South Africa in respect to the country’s heritage and natural resources. The many outdoor spaces of the Saxon are fantastic for a tranquil and quiet picnic with family or close friends that can be created with the help of the star concierge at the hotel.
Fregate Island, The Seychelles
Fregate Island is home to seven beaches, including the only privatizable one in the Indian Ocean. The island’s crowning glory is Anse Victorin, which has been voted the most beautiful beach in the world. Guests of Fregate can enjoy their meals on the plush white sand before taking a dip into Anse Victorin’s shallow, clear waters which are great for snorkeling and swimming.
The Kalahari, South Africa
Located in South Africa’s Kalahari savanna, Tswalu is a private reserve for those who wish to immerse themselves in nature. In addition to private game drives, guests of Tswalu can charter a helicopter to take them over the sweeping Kalahari. While enjoying a bird’s eye view, guests will learn about Tswalu’s many conservation and research efforts and soaking in all that is below. Guests can then enjoy a private picnic on the secluded peaks of the Korannaberg mountains for an incredible view. The mountain range has a natural rainfall catchment, which can attract species such as aardvark, sable antelope and pangolin.
Barcelona, Spain
Hotel Arts Barcelona soars high above the city of Barcelona and boasts plenty of spots to picnic. There are two levels of gardens and terraces that surround the hotel’s pools, and the area acts as a relaxing, urban oasis during the day where guests can soak up the Mediterranean sun while enjoying their meals outdoors.
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is an ideal destination for picnics with a view. Surrounded by mountains, the city offers amazing vistas form a variety of picnic spots. A favorite with locals and visitors alike is famous Table Mountain. Organized by the hotel team, Ellerman House guests often combine a hike up the mountain with a picnic on top of The 7th Wonder of the Nature. The picnic basket focuses on healthy, clean foods such as yogurts, fresh-pressed juices, Ellerman’s House famous rusks, and a variety of teas, which can easily be recreated for a picnic at home.
Cameron Highlands, Malaysia
Cameron Highlands, the "little piece of England in Asia," is the perfect spot for a tea time picnic with a twist. Located amongst the rolling hills and picturesque plateaus is Cameron Highlands Resort, a haven for anyone who adores romance, seclusion and nostalgia. The luxurious boutique hotel rests on the largest hill retreat in Malaysia, and is surrounded by lush greenery, English styled cottages, tea plantations and strawberry farms. Guests can enjoy spending time outdoors, taking in the hilly landscape and unique tudor-style cottages, with traditional English tea time favorites such as scones with clotted cream and teas from Malaysia.
Ascona, Switzerland
Located on the shores of Lake Maggiore in Switzerland sits Ascona, the premiere location for a lakeside picnic. Boasting colorful cafe-filled streets dotted with palm trees and the Alps towering in the background, Ascona is a magical destination for experiencing year-round warm weather and unparalleled scenic views. To enjoy a picnic, travelers can head to the Botanical Gardens on the Brissago Islands, visit Terreni alla Maggia's northernmost rice fields in the world, and stay at Hotel Eden Roc, perched directly on the lake. The hotel features a private beach and exclusive access to the water, where guests can enjoy a Mediterranean picnic lunch or a snacks while splashing around and enjoying the sun.