Warwick
They class their recently released 2015 summer picnic offering as "Gourmet picnics" and whilst the R400 for two price tag makes it one of the more costly picnics around, the quality of the food and the setting is what truly makes it an incredible spot.
Their gourmet basket includes goodies such as succulent beef fillet served on a bed of rocket with a homemade mustard mayonnaise and the best of local charcuterie: Parma ham, salami sticks & Salametti drizzled with truffle oil
And if you're a vegetarian, expect to have items such as Butternut and Sweet potato phyllo pastry tart and a British Salad of exotic tomatoes, barley, beetroot, full cream yoghurt and toasted walnuts and almonds
Once you've decided upon whether you and your partner (or just you, I ate an entire basket on my own) will be going vegetarian or meat, the next important step is to choose your location. The booking form on Warwick's website allows you the choice of either sitting on the lawn with cushions and a big umbrella, sitting under the trees in the forest courtyard or having your own private space in a picnic pod.
Booking is ESSENTIAL as picnic spaces go fast. To book your picnic, click here
Spier
Who doesn't love the farm-to-table ethos behind Spier, their fascinating history, love of wildlife and plethora of things to do. I've had two picnics at Spier and each has been completely magical.
Not only can they cater for a wide variety of needs - gluten-free, vegetarian, kids - but there are so many spots for you to choose to get comfortable and enjoy your basket in. Picnic benches, lush lawns and sweeping oaks are all up for grabs.
An idea of what you will get in your basket: Farmhouse cheeses, pasture-reared cold cuts, homemade pates and chutneys, breads, fresh salads and delicious home-baked treats.
Major brownie points also go to Spier for thinking of style - their baskets are sexy (can a basket be sexy?) and their packaging is earth-friendly and very pretty. Baskets cost R395 for two
For more information, click here
Viljoensdrift
A picnic with a difference and the difference involves water. Viljoensdrift in Robertson, aside from its deli and wine tasting facilities offers boat rides down the Breede River and if you're tired of eating on land, you can choose your picnic supplies from the deli and take it onboard with you.
Options available include, freshly-baked ciabatta with pâté, cheese, olives with a hint of garlic, bay and oregano, Shiraz conserve, basil pesto, smoked olive tapenade, Ostrich carpaccio, apple wood smoked chicken and smoked salmon trout to name but a few of the products you can choose. Complete your basket with a bottle or two of their wine and you're good to go.
For more information, click here
Boschendal
A huge transformation has transpired at this winery and it's an absolute delight to visit especially if you are a big foodie. Boschendal has a long history behind it and with its new vegetable garden, deli, olive press and beautiful cottages, I foresee an illustrious future ahead with many new faces visiting the farm. But with all the new changes, what remains a constant draw card is Le Pique Nique and these picnic baskets, at only R195pp, are generous and oozing with freshly prepared goodies.
Tables are laid out in the shade, or simply grab a blanket or beanbag and find a quiet corner to relax in.
Booking 24 hours in advance is essential. Click here for more information
Hartenberg
Known for its award-winning Shiraz and Chardonnay, Hartenberg embraces the summer weather with their classically inspired baskets at only R175pp AND it includes a bottle of wine for two.
This season the picnic basket includes the popular Eleanor’s Snoek pâté, caramelised onion dip as well as a selection of the finest local cheeses and charcuterie with unique accompaniments such as an apple and beetroot chutney. Tuck into a delicious rolled stuffed Pork leg or Panko crumbed chicken pops.
Choice of picnic spots include their shady terrace or cushions under the trees.
For more information, click here