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Written by: Mohammed Gani
In light of International Picnic day on Thursday, 18 June 2015, we have decided to compile a list of the world’s best places to grab your blanket and take some time out to relax with loved ones. Picnics are a great pastime and offer a lot of fun for the family. The best kind of picnic spot is a scenic location which is clean and green.
Here are the Top 5 Picnic spots around the world:
1) Haleakala National Park, Hawaii
This is a very famous picnic destination where one can literally spend the entire day finding new places to set up spot. If possible, get a head start to the day and awake before sunrise. Head to the summit of Maui’s Haleakala volcano, called Pu’u ‘Ula ‘ula peak. There is ample space on the peak and a sunrise picnic would be perfect here, watching the dawn unfold over a massive depression. Be sure to take warm clothes with as the temperature can range from near freezing to warm.
2) Jardin des Tuileries, Paris, France
Surrounded by fountains, sculptures and two museums (the Galerie Nationale du Jeu de Paume and the Musée de l’Orangerie), this garden is a space of tranquillity and culture. Flanked by the Seine on one side and the Rue Rivoli on the other, the park is perfectly located as a rest stop. Stop by one of the many bakeries in Rue de Rivoli and make your way there, the Eiffel tower is not going anywhere.
3) Huayna Picchu, Peru
At an elevation of approximately 3000m above sea level, the view from the top of this peak is beautiful, but overwhelming in a number of ways. It is a nerve racking effort climbing the steep, slippery rock towards the summit, but the rewards are beyond explanation. The panoramic view of the Urabamba River Valley and the famous city of the Inca is incomparable. Pack light snacks and don’t linger too long – the hike down is a bit of challenge as well.
4) Kirstenbosch Gardens, Cape Town, South Africa
On the slopes of Table Mountain lie the beautiful and well maintained Kirstenbosch Gardens with an abundance of space for hikes and other outdoor activities. It has more than 7000 plant species on display and offers areas dedicated to exhibit Medicinal and fragrant plants as well as the King Protea, South Africa’s national Flower. Pack a bottle of wine from Stellenbosch, some biltong (similar to beef jerky) from the local farms, and a blanket and off you go.
5) National Sculpture Garden, Washington, D.C.
All summer long, the Jazz in Sculpture Garden is a feast to the ears. This well-designed oasis is an extension of the National Art Gallery, and houses at least 17 three dimensional works of art from notable artists. The park also houses a huge circular fountain, should you feel the need to keep cool. Also you can buy your picnic provisions from the on-site Deli Café Pavilion.
