What better way to enjoy summer’s warmer days than by grabbing a blanket and basket and indulging in a leisurely picnic? Even if you’re on vacation and your picnic essentials are at home, many hotels give guests the opportunity to dine al fresco with sumptuous picnic hampers, afternoon tea feasts, tasty cheese platters and more.
City Break
The five-star Milestone Hotel’s prime location opposite Kensington Palace and Gardens in London is perfect for a Picnic in the Park. Staff deliver traditional wicker baskets filled with freshly made sandwiches and treats to Kensington Gardens or other nearby parks. Guests can choose a traditional afternoon tea or a full blown Picnic Feast washed down with Lanson Champagne. www.milestonehotel.com
Country Escape
The stunning five-star Summer Lodge Country House Hotel in Dorset, England, is adjacent to the 600-acre Melbury Estate and Deer Park, an expanse of verdant countryside that’s perfect for walking, painting, and picnicking! Guests can also enjoy a picnic of picnic sandwiches and home-baked cookies on the hotel’s manicured lawns. www.summerlodgehotel.co.uk
Beach Break
Situated just a short walk from the quayside in the heart of St Peter Port, Guernsey, the five-star Old Government House Hotel is the perfect base from which to explore the natural beauty and pristine beaches of the Channel Islands. Whether guests prefer to explore at a leisurely pace, or head out to sea for high-energy adventures like fishing, surfing or diving, the hotel can pack a picnic of freshly prepared sandwiches, cold meat platters, salads, desserts and drinks to be enjoyed in the picturesque surroundings. www.theoghhotel.com
Lakeside Retreat
Located on the shores of Lough Corrib in the west of Ireland, the regal Lodge at Ashford Castle sits on a 350-acre estate where guests can partake in 26 different outdoor activities. For those who want a spot of serenity after a long day of falconry, fishing, shooting, golf or archery, The Lodge offers a Picnic Afternoon Tea that can be enjoyed at Wilde’s restaurant, or on the lawn. Either way, guests will be treated to stunning views as they enjoy sausage rolls, pork pies, a selection of salads and sweets. www.thelodgeac.com
At the Edge of the World
The only thing better than a stroll through the magnificent Table Mountain National Park in South Africa is a picnic at The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa in Cape Town, enjoying the striking views of the rugged coastline and indigenous flora and fauna. Guests can bring a Gourmet Picnic Hamper or Backpack to any of the scenic sites along the trails above the hotel, and enjoy a stunning sunset while feasting on cold meat charcuterie, gourmet salads, cheeses, sandwiches, fruits and sweet treats. www.12apostleshotel.com
