Picnic with a view

Here are a few romantic picnic spots to enjoy in Durban, Cape Town and Joburg, writes Clinton Moodley

KENNETH STAINBANK NATURE RESERVE

Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve in Yellowwood Park is famed for its wildlife including zebra, bushbuck, reedbuck, impala and rock hyrax. You can choose between 10 picnic sites, which boast impressive views from every angle. The 253-hectare reserve has a variety of indigenous flora and more than 200 bird species. Adults pay R40 while children pay R20. The reserve opens from 6 am. Call 060 355 7088.

NORVAL FOUNDATION SCULPTURE GARDENS

The Norval Foundation sculpture gardens, located 20 minutes from Cape Town, makes for an ideal picnic escape. Travellers pay R120 to visit and that grants you access for the year. Picnics take place at the sculpture gardens and pre-packed picnic hampers are available at The Skotnes Restaurant (no food and beverages are allowed on the property). Picnic bookings must be made at least 24 hours in advance and costs R295 per person, which includes parking and entrance to the Sculpture Garden. Visit www.norvalfoundation.org

NEDERBURG’S THE MANOR

Enjoy a sumptuous open-air picnic on the lush lawn of Nederburg’s revamped The Manor restaurant in Paarl. Start off by feasting on a selection of local cheeses and charcuterie accompanied by olives, pickles, nuts and hummus, with freshly-baked bread rolls. The main course is roasted baby chicken with caramelised new potatoes and a fresh and crisp salad. End the picnic with a decadent chocolate brownie as dessert. The picnic basket costs R460 and serves two adults. It includes a bottle of wine from Nederburg’s core range or a bottle of non-alcoholic bubbly. Visit www.nederburg.com/the-manor-restaurant/

WALTER SISULU NATIONAL BOTANICAL GARDEN

Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden is a nature lover's paradise. Founded in 1982, the garden has become one of the most popular picnic spots around. If you are lucky, you may get to see hedgehog and Cape porcupine during your picnic date. Adults pay R60 and children pay R20. Visit http://www. sanbi.org/gardens/walter-sisulu/