Insider's guide: 4 of the best picnic spots in the Mediterranean

Finding a secret waterside picnic spot in a secluded beach or remote cove – and enjoying a Mediterranean picnic prepared by your own chef – is one of the highlights of chartering or owning a superyacht. Here four Michelin-starred chefs — Alain Ducasse, Fabio Bragagnolo, Giancarlo Morelli and Antonio Mellino — reveal their favourite waterside picnic spots in the Mediterranean.

The best desert island picnic spot is on Tavolara, a tiny island off Sardinia.

Giancarlo Morelli says: “In Abbiadori, outside Porto Cervo, is a very good bakery and pasticceria called Sa Conca, as well as greengrocers and other shops that are supplied by local farmers and shepherds and offer real freshness and quality. And there are great places to moor up for a picnic. My favourite is the small island of Tavolara.”

Need to know: Tavolara is a tiny strip of land — just over three miles long and less than a mile wide — just off the northeast coast of Sardinia. The island claims to be one of “smallest kingdoms in the world”. It is run by a descendent of Giuseppe Bertoleoni, a sailor from Genova who came across the island in the late 18th century and proclaimed himself king.

How to get there by superyacht: The limestone island is just 10km off the Sardinian shoreline. It is easily accessible while enjoying a superyacht charter in Sardinia and is close to glamorous Porto Cervo which is one of the top Mediterranean party destinations.

One of the best waterside picnic spots is the secluded Baia di leranto beach on the Amalfi Coast.

Antonio Mellino says: “To enjoy this part of Italy more peacefully you could go for a picnic on a secluded beach in the Baia di Ieranto, where the sirens in the Odyssey tried to seduce Ulysses. You can walk from Nerano – it’s tough but worth it. But the best markets to pick up fresh produce for your picnic are in Piano di Sorrento, on the northern coast of the peninsula, so it may be better to approach by boat.”

Need to know: Heading to Baia di Ieranto is a great way to experience one of the destinations from Homer’s Odyssey by luxury yacht. The name Ieranto derives from the Greek "Ieros” meaning "sacred” and the beach is breathtakingly beautiful with spectacular views across the incredibly blue sea.

How to get there by a superyacht: A picnic in Baia di Ieranto can be included while exploring Capri, Ischia and the Amalfi Coast by superyacht or as part of a superyacht charter in the Bay of Naples.

One of the best beach picnic spots in the Mediterranean is Balistra beach in Golf de Santa Manza, Corsica.

Fabio Bragagnolo says: “My favourite picnic spot is in Golf de Santa Manza, close to Bonifacio. Come ashore beneath the limestone cliffs on Balistra beach and admire the view.”

Need to know: Golf de Santa Manza is close to Bonifacio on the southern tip of Corsica. Balistra beach is only accessible by a three-kilometre dirt track so it is a lot quieter than many of the other beaches in the area. The area is surrounded by turquoise waters and white cliffs and there are several small coves to explore.

How to get there by superyacht: A picnic at Golf de Santa Manza can be enjoyed while exploring Corsica by superyacht. After your picnic a visit to the nearby Iles de Lavezzi and the Ile Cavallo are also recommended. You can take a tender into the marine reserve and enjoy swimming among the granite yachts.

The best decadent picnic spot is a secret valley, overlooking the Margès, at La Bastide de Moustiers in Provence, France.

Alain Ducasse says: “If you are looking for an unusual experience, head to La Bastide de Moustiers. Make sure to book. Upon arrival, the inn’s refurbished 1950 Chevrolet pickup will drive you to a secret place where the staff will have arranged a delicious picnic to enjoy while admiring a breathtaking Provençal landscape.”

Need to know: This unique picnic concept was launched at Alain Ducasse's inn in Provence in 2012. The chefs at La Bastide de Moustiers prepare an exquisite picnic, including rustic delicacies such as old-fashioned tomato salad, rabbit porchetta and Provence fruit tartlets. The inn's sommelier will also choose a wine to compliment each course.

How to get there from your superyacht: The beautiful spot is just over a two-hour car journey from Cannes. If you want to visit the area while enjoying a luxury yacht charter in the French Riviera there is a helipad on site for a quicker transfer.