A hidden gem of a village on the Bogong High Plains Road as you approach Falls Creek, Bogong Village has a great lake and gardens for picnicking. Take Bogong High Plains Road on the way to Falls Creek, you will come across Bogong Village on your left hand side, about 20 minutes from Mount Beauty. Order a picnic from Treats in Tawonga South to collect before heading up the hill, or collect regional provisions from Skafferi at Svarmisk.

PLAYLE’S HILL, CORRYONG 

This picnic spot offers magnificent views of the Corryong and Thowgla Valleys, with picnic tables and toilets. Drive up Donaldson Street from the Hanson Street roundabout, go up the hill and turn left into the reserve on the top. Order a picnic lunch in advance from Legends on Hansen and Pepperleaf.

MURMUNGEE LOOKOUT 

If you are looking for a great picnic spot with a view head to the Murmungee Lookout (757 metres) in the Stanley State Forest, just south of Stanley. It’s reached from Beechworth off the Buckland Gap Road (the road towards Myrtleford). Picnic overlooking the farming land of the Murmungee Valley, with picnic tables and barbecue facilities available. Pick up picnic provisions from one of Beechworth’s many providores and cafes — about a 30-minute drive. 

TAWONGA GAP 

Another picnic area with great views is Tawonga Gap between Mount Beauty and Bright. With a rocky picnic and barbecue area, settle in to enjoy stunning views of the Kiewa Valley and Mt Bogong over lunch. Head there via the Kiewa Valley Highway, take the turn-off to Bright on the right about three kilometres from Mount Beauty. From the turn-off, it’s about eight kilometres to the Gap.

LAKE SAMBELL, BEECHWORTH

Just minutes from the centre of town, this family-friendly picnic spot offers shade with a playground and picnic amenities, as well as a great view over the recreational lake. Order some gourmet take-away fish and chips from The Ageing Frog and grab craft brews from Bridge Road Brewers, then walk off lunch with a wander around the lake for about 30 minutes or the five-kilometre Lake Sambell to Lake Kerferd walk. The walk starts from the bridge over Spring Creek at the park entrance, following Spring Creek and Hurdle Creek to Lake Kerferd. Lake Sambell also adjoins the beautiful Chinese Gardens.

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