Enjoy the Best Picnic Spots in Joburg this Spring!

Ready to soak up the sun and make the most of Joburg’s beautiful spring weather? Look no further! I’ve rounded up 7 amazing picnic spots that will make your springtime in Joburg unforgettable.

1. Toadbury Hall, Cradle of Humankind

Get ready for a picnic extravaganza at Toadbury Hall, located in the scenic Cradle of Humankind. This charming country hotel offers an all-inclusive picnic experience on their sprawling 25-hectare estate. Just a short drive from both Johannesburg and Pretoria, it’s the perfect getaway for city dwellers craving a breath of fresh air.

When you arrive, you’ll be greeted with a cozy picnic blanket and fluffy pillows, all set up for you in a lovely shaded area on the lush lawn. While the picnic basket doesn’t come with drinks, you can choose from their impressive wine list, featuring prices starting at only R115. Their corkage fee is a bit steep at R100, so unless you have a special bottle in mind, it’s best to sip on the delightful options from their selection.

If you’re looking for a delightful picnic experience, I’ve got the perfect recommendation for you! Budmarsh Country Lodge, situated in the picturesque Magaliesberg, is just an easy hour and a half drive from Johannesburg. As you make your way along the beautiful Magalies Meander drive, you’ll be greeted by the tranquil surroundings of Budmarsh.

At Budmarsh, you can indulge in an exquisite picnic setup set amidst lush green trees with a stunning dam in the backdrop. It’s the perfect spot to kick back, relax, and enjoy the serenity of nature.

Their picnic basket is filled to the brim with a scrumptious variety of food. You’ll find mouth-watering options like grilled chicken, fruit salad, chocolate brownies, steak, couscous, tomato, and mozzarella balls in pesto sauce, salmon, and sour cream. And let’s not forget about the sides! They offer sides like hummus and fish paste. It’s safe to say that Budmarsh’s picnic spread is more than enough to satisfy two people.

The cost of this incredible experience is only R250 per person. To make a reservation, give them a call at 0105937523 or visit their website at toadburyhall.co.za. Budmarsh Country Lodge also caters to private functions such as weddings and conferences, so if you have a special event coming up, be sure to inquire about availability.

So why wait? Treat yourself to a memorable picnic experience at Budmarsh Country Lodge. You won’t be disappointed!

Warm regards,

Lishivha

Hey there! I’ve got something delicious to tell you about – the picnic basket at Budmarsh Country Lodge. It’s filled to the brim with a variety of fresh and tasty food. You’ll find cold meats, nuts, dried fruit, and a selection of mouthwatering desserts. They even have homemade marshmallows that are out-of-this-world yummy! And don’t worry if you’re a vegetarian – they’ve got you covered with a veggie option in the basket.

But hold on, the basket doesn’t come with anything to drink. No problem, though! You can order a bottle of sparkling wine or a chilled bottle of chardonnay from their menu. Prices start from R135 for a Durbanville Hills Sauvignon Blanc. And if you’re feeling fancy, they’ve got cocktails too, starting from just R40.

Do you want to give it a try? It’ll cost you R550 for two people. The picnic spot opens at 11:30 am, so make sure to book ahead by calling 0117281800 or visiting budmarsh.co.za. Can’t wait to see you there!

3. Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens, Roodepoort

Imagine lying on a cozy blanket, surrounded by the soothing sounds of a splashing waterfall. The lush greenery and diverse wildlife make this enchanting place perfect for a picnic. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars to catch a glimpse of the legendary Black Eagles. These majestic birds have made their home right here, in the heart of the city. They’ve been a part of this landscape long before the garden even existed.

Remember to be mindful of the environment by bringing a refuse bag for your trash. And if you happen to be a smoker, don’t worry – just remember to bring your own ashtray, as there aren’t any provided in the gardens.

Hey there! Let’s talk about a cool place you can visit that’s all about nature and being eco-friendly. The Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens is all about encouraging visitors to enjoy nature without leaving any trash behind. They believe in leaving only footprints – no dustbins to attract bees or rodents!

For nature lovers like you, the Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens has so much to offer. You can explore a fern walk, a milkwood terrace, a bushveld area, a wildflower walk, or even go on a 3.5-kilometre hiking trail before settling down for a picnic. Plus, the best part is that most of the botanical garden is wheelchair-friendly!

Now, let me give you some details on how you can visit. The entrance fee is R45 for adults. If you’re a pensioner, it’s R30, and you can get in for free on Tuesdays. And if you’re a student with a valid student card, your entrance fee is also R30. To find out more, you can call 0861001278 or 0877403639. You can also visit their website at sanbi.org/gardens/walter-sisulu. The gardens are open every day from 8 am to 6 pm.

So, if you’re looking for a place to connect with nature, the Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens in Johannesburg should be at the top of your list. Go have a great time exploring and enjoy the beauty of the garden!

4. Magnolia Dell Park, Pretoria

I’ve discovered a hidden gem in the heart of the city – a small park that is simply delightful! It’s the perfect escape from the busy city life and offers so much to enjoy. The best part is, it’s completely free to enter! You can bring your furry friends along too, as it’s a pet-friendly park. Surrounded by majestic willow trees, this park provides a peaceful and serene atmosphere that’s hard to find in the city.

One of the main attractions of this park is the picturesque pond, which is always bustling with life. Ducks, Hadadas, and other beautiful birds flock to the pond, creating a mesmerizing sight. It’s a wonderful place to set up a picnic and bask in the warm sunshine. The park is well-maintained and a popular spot for locals to relax and unwind. In fact, we stumbled upon a birthday party during our visit, which added to the lively ambiance.

While there are no braai facilities available, the park offers free Tshwane Wi-Fi with a generous 500MB. This means you can capture stunning photos and instantly share them on Instagram without worrying about using up all your data. As you enter the park, you’ll also come across Huckleberry’s Restaurant. This charming eatery welcomes you with a lovely love lock wall that adds a touch of romance to the surroundings.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your picnic basket, fold up your picnic blanket, and head to this wonderful park for a tranquil and enjoyable day. The entrance is free, and the park is open to the public. It’s an oasis in the middle of the city that you won’t want to miss.

Thanks for visiting,

Lishivha

5. Modderfontein Reserve, Modderfontein

Welcome to the Modderfontein Reserve! I’m excited to guide you through this 275-hectare private reserve managed by the wonderful folks at the Endangered Wildlife Trust. One of the highlights here is the Fish Eagle Dam, a popular spot for picnicking and relaxation.

The Fish Eagle Dam is just perfect for enjoying a peaceful picnic. It’s not too crowded, so you won’t feel overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle. Plus, the dam itself is a sight to behold. You can find limited benches and braai sites in the area, which means you can have a proper South African feast. Don’t just bring some boring cheese sandwiches – bring some boerewors to grill and treat yourself to a flavorful meal!

There’s plenty of shade under the majestic Bluegum trees, providing the perfect spot to spread out a blanket and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. And the best part? You’ll have stunning views of the dam, adding an extra touch of beauty to your picnic experience.

Now, I have to let you in on a little secret. While the Fish Eagle Dam is a lovely place to relax, it does have a few buzzing visitors: bees. So, we recommend leaving the super sugary drinks at home to avoid attracting unwanted attention from these little fellows.

Come and enjoy the Modderfontein Reserve and all the beauty it has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful picnic spot, or simply want to surround yourself with nature, this reserve is the perfect place to be. So grab your picnic basket and head on over – a wonderful adventure awaits!

Every Saturday, I have the perfect activity for you – a free five-kilometer Parkrun at 8am! It’s a great way to start off your picnic with some exercise and fresh air. If you prefer a slower pace, you can explore the various trails in the reserve. They will lead you through the beautiful Modderfontein Spruit, past cascading waters, and through grassland and hills. You can purchase a map for just R10 to help you navigate the trails.

If you’re a bird lover, don’t forget to bring your binoculars! The reserve is home to an array of bird species, including Fish Eagles, Barn Owls, and various kingfishers. If you plan your picnic on the first Saturday of the month, you can even join a bird walk led by Pat Ayling. Just give her a call at 0824653683 to book your spot. The bird walks cost R10 per person.

Now, let’s talk logistics. The entry fee for the reserve is R30 for adults and R15 for children and pensioners. You can visit the reserve from 5:30 am to 6:30 pm during the summer months and from 6 am to 6 pm in winter. For more information, you can visit their website at modderfonteinreserve.co.za.

So, whether you’re looking for an active start to your picnic or a leisurely stroll through nature, the Modderfontein Nature Reserve is the perfect place for you. Grab your walking shoes and get ready to explore!

– Melanie Van Zyl

Located just 11 kilometers south of the city center of Joburg, you’ll find a nature reserve that covers an expansive 600 hectares. While it may not be the first place you think of for a picnic with its lack of pristine lawns, this reserve is a hiker’s paradise and a favorite destination for trail runners. Don’t worry though, if you do get hungry while exploring the trails, there are plenty of shaded tables at the main entrance on Peggy Vera Road and even rocks along the routes that you can sit on and enjoy your meal.

My favorite spot in the reserve is just a short walk from the main gate. If you turn right and head towards the first bridge that crosses the Bloubospruit, you’ll come across a bench next to a small patch of grass. It’s the perfect place to sit and enjoy the peacefulness of nature.

Make sure to bring your binoculars with you, as there is plenty of wildlife to spot. Keep an eye out for springbok, blesbok, wildebeest, and over 150 species of birds. It’s a great opportunity for birdwatching!

The reserve also offers 10 different hiking trails, with the longest one stretching about 20 kilometers. Along the way, you’ll come across information boards that explain the archaeological ruins found in the park. In fact, the reserve has the highest concentration of identified Iron Age sites on the Witwatersrand.

So, if you’re looking for a peaceful spot to connect with nature, this is the place for you. Explore the hiking trails, spot some wildlife, and learn about the rich history of the area.

Got any plans for the day? I know just the place for you! It’s a fantastic destination open every day, guaranteed to make your day a memorable one. You can visit from 7 a.m. till 6 p.m., or simply enjoy the breathtaking sunrise to sunset view. Check out their website at jhbcityparks.com for more information.
Here’s a pro tip for you: If you’re in the mood for a delightful catered picnic experience, head over to Thaba Eco Hotel. For only R455, you and a friend can indulge in a scrumptious lunch basket with beer. But wait, there’s more! The package even includes a scenic drive to a picturesque spot in the beautiful Highveld. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity, visit their website at thabaecohotel.co.za.
– Melanie Van Zyl

7. Ten Bompas, Joburg

Located between Hyde Park and Rosebank, Ten Bompas is an excellent choice for a weekend picnic right in the heart of the city. They organize a picnic event once a month, allowing you to unwind and relax on the lush lawn next to their expansive vegetable garden.

When it comes to this unique picnic experience, you won’t find individual tables or chairs. Instead, we all gather around a low, communal table spread out with blankets and cushions. It’s a chance to connect with others as we indulge in a delicious feast.

On the menu, you can look forward to homemade baked bread accompanied by creamy hummus and a flavorful burnt butter seasonal salad. You’ll have the option of a cheese or meat platter, and of course, a mouthwatering dessert to top it all off. The food is bursting with flavor, and the atmosphere is lively and festive.

If you’re concerned about privacy and intimacy, this picnic experience may not be what you’re looking for. However, it’s a great opportunity to make new friends and enjoy the company of others. You’re sure to have a memorable time in this vibrant setting.

The cost for this extraordinary picnic experience is R275 per person, excluding tips. mark these dates on your calendar: 15 April, 19 August, 21 October, and 18 November 2018. For more information and to reserve your spot, visit tenbompas.com. We look forward to hosting you!

Do it: The picnic costs R275 per person but excludes tips. Picnics will be taking place on these following days: 15 April, 19 August, 21 October, and 18 November 2018. tenbompas.com – Melanie Van Zyl