Melbourne Picnic Spots For Valentine’s Day 2023

Sometimes in life and love, you really need to be reminded of why it’s the simple things which mean the most. That’s why this Valentine’s Day, why not take someone special for a date with a difference – a humble picnic date. 

You can trust us when we say a really romantic Valentine’s Day in Melbourne takes place on a blanket, surrounded by nature, and where it seems nobody else in the world matters but you. 

A well-thought-out and well-executed Valentine’s picnic is sure to be a Valentine’s gift for her with a difference. 

We’re talking about a beautiful, well-thought-out and intimate picnic for two. Think flowers, a well-prepared hamper replete with food, wine and chocolates to make your special someone feel really, truly special. 

How to plan a romantic Valentine’s Day picnic in Melbourne 

Picnics are fantastic because they allow you to really connect with your significant other and often feel much more private than a traditional dinner date in a busy restaurant. 

The other great thing is they are really COVID-safe as you can simply avoid going near anyone else as needed.

When it comes to planning, think simple and light with the food – no one wants heavy or difficult things to eat when you’re sitting down. Don’t forget a nice bottle to share, and a couple of decorative pieces – although Melbourne itself might be the best decoration of all. 

And flowers, the best flowers Melbourne can offer, too. Check out Lillypad for their online flower delivery Melbourne service.

Plan to head out in the late afternoon or early evening so you can stay and watch the sun go down – but remember you don’t want to be out too late as it can become chilly and the bugs difficult to deal with.

But where to go? In a city like Melbourne – that just screams romance – there are plenty of great places to picnic, whether you want somewhere quiet or one with breathtaking views of a park, river or the sea.

And as we said, just don’t forget that a Valentine’s Day picnic in Melbourne wouldn’t be complete without flowers. 

Check out our guide below for Melbourne’s top five romantic picnic spots:

Mount Dandenong Observatory

Okay, so it’s not quite in Melbourne, but if you want to do something truly special for Valentine’s Day – head up to the Dandenong Ranges for a day that you’ll never forget. 

Luckily, you don’t have to be worried about coming across too many other loved-up Melbourne couples as the Dandenong Ranges provide plenty of space for everyone. You’ll be able to pick from many beautiful picnic spots in the English-style garden, replete with a canopy of mature blackwoods and a maze – and all while looking over the National Park and mesmerising city skyline.

Did someone say ‘in love’?

Royal Botanic Gardens 

While it may seem like a bit of a cliché, there’s truly a reason Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens spring to mind first when you think of romantic picnic spots. 

With so many gardens and views to choose from, you’ll truly be spoiled for choice. 

Many of the places in the gardens also provide secrecy shade and it feels like a little haven from the madness of the CBD. 

If you want to do a picnic with a little less effort – and potentially more gourmet – there are plenty of eateries in the garden where you can grab takeaway food and drinks from. 

Cheers to that!

Treasury Gardens 

Sandwiched beside Spring Street and Fitzroy Gardens, the Treasury Gardens is a great option if you’re looking for an easy to get to location. As soon as you step into the garden, you’ll feel a million miles from the city. 

All that’s left for you to do is unpack your hamper, pop the champagne and cuddle up – although not too much public cuddling, please!

The Abbotsford Convent

Stepping into the expansive grounds of the Abbotsford Convent makes you feel like you’re stepping back in time. 

Sit back and relax as you watch what used to be a convent, a laundry, an orphanage and then an aged care facility operate as a busy, creative hub today. How times change!

So, why not use this picnic as an opportunity to reflect on your relationship – where you’ve been and where you’re going next?

Hedgeley Dene Gardens, Malvern East 

Did somebody say ‘saving the best until last’?

Well, we did! In the suburbia of Malvern East, you’ll find Melbourne’s ultimate secret garden with wooden bridges that cross over ornamental lakes, expansive green lawns, pretty parklands and even a waterfall – you and your special someone will fall in love with each other all over again on your picnic. 

In fact, you may never want to leave.