This weekend we’re ditching city living to explore the great outdoors in search of some of the best country markets located right on Cape Town’s doorstep.
Also read: Immerse yourself in the best of farm living at Boschendal
Whether a memorable day trip to the country or a full weekend away tickles your fancy, these markets should definitely be on your itinerary:
CEX Community Market
The market takes place every month. Visitors can look forward to handcrafted wares, artisanal foods, art, live music and warm country community hospitality. There truly is something for everyone at this market – invest in some art; stock up on, and taste, fresh local produce and other delicacies. Enjoy a delicious snack, and relax while you savour small-town life.
The next market is scheduled for Saturday, 12 February
Location: Porterville
Porterville is an increasingly popular village nestled on the slopes of the Olifant’s River Mountains at the base of the Groot Winterhoek Wilderness Area. The area offers a variety of wonderful hiking trails and mountain bike routes. There is an uphill waterfall trail dotted with 22 waterfalls snaking their way down the mountainside, interspersed with crystal-clear pools.
A short drive from Porterville will take you into the mountains above the neighbouring town of Piketberg. The area, known as Piket-Bo-Berg, is home to a hugely popular monthly market called The Piket Bo-Berg Farmers Market.
The Piket Bo-Berg Farmers Market
The Piket Bo-Berg Farmers Market has become an institution for locals and visitors alike – who are drawn to the handcrafted items and delicious goodies, ranging from crispy croissants and baked treats to artisanal charcuterie meats and the valley’s own fresh fruit, as well as olive oil on tap and mead made the traditional way. There are also stalls that sell items such as books, olive products and beautifully crafted wooden games and items for the home.
The next market is scheduled for Saturday, 28 January
Location: Kruistementvlei Farm
The town of Piketberg itself, which is nestled at the foot of the Piketberg Mountain range, offers stunning natural surroundings and abundant outdoor activities for hikers, mountain bike enthusiasts, trail runners and fun-seeking families. Piketberg boasts a unique and fascinating self-guided tour – the Piketberg Historical Route – which is the best way to experience the heritage of this town.
And while in Piketberg, don’t miss Piketberg’s increasingly popular Last Friday.
Last Friday
Last Friday is a food and art festival that takes place across the village on the last Friday of every month. Visitors can expect a celebration of art, culture, live music and delicious artisanal foods and drinks.
The next market is scheduled for Friday, 27 January
Location: Piketberg
Piketberg’s neighbouring town of Goedverwacht also offers a wonderful authentic market experience.
Goedverwacht Organic Market
The Goedverwacht Organic Market offers fresh organic produce, food stalls, homemade products, freshly baked roosterkoek, tractor rides and more.
The next market is scheduled for Saturday, 5 March
Location: Goedverwacht
The fascinating little settlement of Goedverwacht, with its historic whitewashed thatched homes and brightly painted windows and doors, boasts a beautiful old water mill – now the Mill Museum – a parsonage, as well as the imposing Moravian Church (all National Monuments). Visitors can also enjoy a picnic in the picturesque surroundings.
Not far from the towns of Piketberg and Goedverwacht is Koringberg, which hosts the wonderful monthly Farm Stall Market.
The Farm Stall Market
Expect a jam-packed day of fun at The Farm Stall Market with live music, wine and beer tasting, baked goods, fresh produce, delicious food, great coffee, arts and crafts, as well as a kids’ corner with face painting and a play area on offer.
The next market is scheduled for Saturday, 11 February
Location: Desert Rose Farm Stall
Moving further towards the coast, market and memory-making seekers will arrive at the town of Velddrif and neighbouring Port Owen, with its monthly Port Owen Market.
Port Owen Market
The Port Owen Market takes place on the first Saturday of the month and offers unique and local wares, as well as handmade artisanal products and fresh produce – all presented in the beautiful setting of the Port Owen mariner.
The next market is scheduled for Saturday, 4 February
Location: Port Owen Marina
The popular West Coast village of Velddrif is one of the most popular bird-watching sites in South Africa, and the area offers abundant water sports and fishing opportunities. The Fisheries Museum is well worth a visit to find out about the colourful history of the fishing industry along this coast. The area also offers 4x4ing, hiking, mountain climbing, and more.
Immerse yourself in country living, from exploring the markets to experiencing the wide open spaces and breathtaking scenery, these towns within the Bergrivier region, situated just a stone’s throw away from Cape Town, have it all.
Make 2023 one of your most travelled and memorable years by getting out there and exploring all that is on offer in this adventure capital – starting with the markets!
For more information on the Bergrivier area and where to find the monthly markets, as well as other things to see and do, visit www.bergriviertourism.co.za.
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Picture: Supplied
