Best Picnic Spots in Cape Town and Surrounding Areas

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picnic spots mont rochelle nature reserve

Cape Town and its surrounding areas provide various options for spending time outdoors with loved ones. There are countless picnic spots, from scenic views to secluded beaches and serene wine estates. Here are seven that offer unique experiences to visitors.

Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve

The first spot on our list is the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve in Franschhoek. This reserve boasts a stunning view from Breakfast Rock and 30 kilometers of well-maintained trails. With abundant fynbos, the fund provides drinking water to the entire Franschhoek region. In addition, visitors can enjoy the restaurant, wine tastings, picnics, and spa.

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Sparks Bay Day Camp

Located between Gordon’s Bay and Pringle Bay, the Sparks Bay Day Camp in the Kogelberg Nature Reserve offers breathtaking views across False Bay. The picnic site provides ample space on the grass for a relaxing picnic, fishing off the rocks, and swimming in the nearby tidal pool.

Oudekraal Beach

Head to Oudekraal Beach, part of the Table Mountain National Park, for a picturesque beach picnic. The beach features turquoise water, white sand, and large boulders, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or picnicking. Alcoholic beverages and pets are prohibited on the beach, but secure parking is available nearby.

Oak Valley Wine Estate

Known for its wine, mountain bike trails, and restaurant, The Pool Room, the Oak Valley Wine Estate in Elgin, is also an excellent spot for picnics. Visitors can relax on the lawn, where comfortable loungers are scattered under the shady trees. The picnic basket includes a selection of cured meats, cheeses, pâtés, preserves, bread, and a brownie. In addition, visitors can purchase a bottle of wine to complete the picnic experience.

Miller Point Caravan Park

The Miller Point Caravan Park in Simon’s Town provides a quiet and safe beach that won’t get crowded. Visitors can enjoy a grassy bank, beach, and rock pools. The park is monitored by a guard who will only allow visitors in if it’s not fully booked, so be sure to call ahead to check availability.

Beta Beach

For a secluded and quiet picnic, head to Beta Beach in Bakoven. This small strip of sand is ideal for relaxing and swimming in the rock pools. Visitors are welcome to bring their dogs, and it’s known for being a topless beach.

Mont Rochelle Wine Estate

The Mont Rochelle Wine Estate in Franschhoek is known for its picnics prepared by the on-site Country Kitchen. The food selection is abundant, including local cheeses, haddock fish cakes, charcuterie, harissa-spiced chicken, and salads. The estate’s lawns feature a boules court, Jenga blocks, and croquet with sweeping views of fields and the Franschhoek valley.

In conclusion, Cape Town and its surrounding areas offer numerous beautiful outdoor experiences for visitors. There’s something for everyone, from stunning views to secluded beaches and serene wine estates. These seven picnic spots are perfect for spending time with loved ones and enjoying the area’s natural beauty.

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Chloe de Kock is a Cape Town-born journalist who chronicles the city’s evolving food culture, from township braai joints to Constantia vineyards, for the Mail & Guardian and Eat Out. When she’s not interviewing grandmothers about secret bobotie recipes or tracking the impact of drought on winemakers, you’ll find her surfing the mellow breaks at Muizenberg—wetsuit zipped, notebook tucked into her backpack in case the next story floats by.

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