Best picnic spots in Balmain

The weather may be getting colder, but warm autumn afternoons are still ideal times for residents of Inner West real estate to get out and enjoy the sunshine with a picnic. 

Whether you're planning to cosy up with your partner or take the kids out for an active afternoon, there are several spots near Balmain property that will suit your needs. 

Stop off at the Balmain Market before you go to pick up some crusty Italian bread that will serve as a perfect base for the organic fruits and veggies that are also on offer. You could even pick up some Australian or Asian takeaways at the market if you want to keep it simple. 

Once you've packed up your picnic, head to these green havens and enjoy a perfect Sydney afternoon:

Illoura Reserve

Set up your spread on one of the two levels of grassy areas in this reserve, which hugs the shoreline of Balmain East. If you've got the kids, you can head up to the play area on the park's upper level, or stroll through the rose garden. 

During lunch, you can look out over Sydney Harbour and enjoy unobstructed views of the Harbour Bridge, Goat Island and Observatory Hill. Head to the northernmost point of the park, near the ferry wharf, for the best views.

Birrung Park

Stretching along White Bay, Birrung Park offers great water views but also a chance to learn more about Australia's native flora. The park is exclusively made up of native vegetation, most of which was recently introduced to support biodiversity in the area. 

Take your lunch to one of the many picnic tables dotted along the shore, or shoot some hoops at the half court. Want to bring Fido on this fun afternoon outing? Dogs can run around off-leash throughout the majority of Birrung Park.