Author // Rachel Avery for Place Newmarket
It’s time to take advantage of our perfect summer climate and enjoy the beautiful scenery… before it’s too late!
There are plenty of leafy, outdoor options to soak up on the Northside, whether it be mountain or creekside - this area has you covered!
We comprised a list of our favourite outdoor picnic hotspots for you to try before the cold weather kicks in.
Kedron Brook Bikeway, Kedron
Photo copyright: Joshua Byrd
The Kedron Brook Bikeway is a 24-kilometre stretch has plenty of places where you can stop for a bite to eat.
Depending on your needs, there are barbeque facilities for you to cook up a storm, as well as play equipment for the kiddies.
For those with fur-babies, the Kedron Brook Floodway Park near Lutwyche Road gives your pup plenty of room to run and roam with an unleashed dog park that stretches a few kilometres.
Botanic Gardens at Mount Coot-tha
Photo copyright: Weli'mi'nakwan
Mount Coot-tha provides plenty of spots to explore and things to do that are incredibly close to Brisbane city.
Comprised of more than 100,000 plants and representing approximately 5000 species from around the world, the Botanic Gardens is a great place to sit back and enjoy nature.
For those looking to keep cool in the warm summer months, the Planetarium is a great stop after a stroll through the gardens.
If you venture up Brisbane’s highest peak, you’ll find the beautiful Mount Coot-tha lookout with panoramic views across the CBD and right out to Moreton Bay.
Enoggera Reservoir, the Gap
Photo copyright: Tamyka Bell
Formerly known as the Enoggera Dam, the Enoggera Reservoir has been re-opened to the public for swimming, kayaking or canoeing.
Surrounding the Reservoir is plenty of luscious, green parkland – perfect for an afternoon picnic!
There aren’t any barbeque facilities or tables here, so you’ll have to cook beforehand and bring a rug or some picnic chairs.
Alternatively, you can pick up a few snacks at the Walkabout Café.
If you’re looking to entertain the family for a full day out, why not swing by the Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre, where the kids can get up close and personal with a variety of Australian animals.
Best of all, it’s only 12 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD!
D’Aguilar National Park, Samford
Photo copyright: Tatiana Gerus
D’Aguilar National Park, formerly Brisbane Forest Park, is one of the hidden wonders of the north side of Brisbane.
It’s hard to believe you’re only 30 kms from the CBD, especially when nestled among the subtropical rainforest trees.
For spectacular views over Brisbane and Moreton Bay, Jolly’s Lookout is breathtaking.
There are also BBQ facilities to cook something yummy while overlooking the city below.
Eager hikers will be pleased by the Somerset trail, which takes you past exquisite views over Somerset and Wivenhoe lakes.
To cool off, take a dip at the Rocky Hole.