Chapter 9: Markets
Lourensford Market
Set on the picturesque Lourensford Wine Estate, this is the Helderberg’s go-to weekend gathering place. Framed by manicured gardens, ancient oaks, and mountain views, it’s a lively space where good food, great wine, and a relaxed atmosphere come together.
Why go?
For a vibrant mix of gourmet street food, estate wines, craft beers, and decadent desserts, served by 60 permanent vendors. Add in live music, pop-up shops, kids’ activities, and plenty of sunny spots to unwind, and you have the recipe for a weekend well spent.
This Helderberg weekend hotspot has over 60 permanent vendors, Image Credit: Lourensford Market
Details
a: Lourensford Rd, Somerset West, Cape Town, 7130
w: lfhm.co.za
t: +27 79 238 5441
e: market@lfhm.co.za
h: Friday, 17h00 – 22h00; Saturday and Sunday, 11h00 – 16h00 (seasonal and weather permitting)
Boschendal Friday Night Market
The night market on Boschendal's Werf is a Friday evening favourite. There's live music and a tempting variety of artisanal food and drink, including wood-fired pizza, gourmet burgers, oysters, baked treats, wine, and cocktails. You can even take a dip in the dam!
Why go?
The beautiful estate gardens and mountain views make this a magical spot for a vibey night out with family and friends. You can lounge on the lawn and munch on farm-fresh flavours, while the kids are playing over at The Tree House.
For a relaxed night out with family and friends, Image Credit: Boschendal Estate
Details
a: Boschendal Estate, Helshoogte Road (R310), Pniel, Franschhoek, 7690
w: boschendal.com
t: +27 21 870 427
e: reservations@boschendal.co.za
h: Friday, 18h00 – 21h00 (seasonal and weather permitting)
Elgin Railway Market
The Elgin Railway Market is a steampunk-styled hub of food, craft, and live music. Watch vintage steam trains from Cape Town pull into the platform before exploring the market’s mix of flavours and artisanal finds.
Why go?
Choose from fragrant curries, Mediterranean plates, poke bowls, Neapolitan pizza, burgers, ribs, and sweet treats, alongside local wine, craft beer, and L-Gin (Elgin gin). You can also browse stalls selling handmade leather goods, jewellery, apparel, and much, much more.
Elgin Railway Market is housed in a converted 1940s apple warehouse, Image Credit: Elgin Railway Market
Details
a: Oak Avenue, Elgin, 7180
w: elginrailwaymarket.co.za
t: +27 21 204 1158
e: info@elginrailwaymarket.co.za
h: Saturday and Sunday, 09h00 – 16h00 (festive season trading hours may be different)
Blaauwklippen Family Market
Set beneath centuries-old oaks on one of South Africa’s oldest wine estates, this market is a relaxed, family-friendly weekend outing in the Cape Winelands. Browse artisan stalls, enjoy live music, and savour street food paired with award-winning Blaauwklippen wines.
Why go?
For the vibe, delicious street food, and the perfect blend of local flavour and authentic wine estate charm. Kids can play safely while adults soak up the vineyard views.
Set on one of South Africa’s oldest wine estates, Image Credit: Blaauwklippen Family Market
Details
a: Blaauwklippen, Strand Rd, R44, Stellenbosch, 7600
w: blaauwklippen.com/market
t: +27 21 880 0133
h: Saturday and Sunday, 10h00 – 16h00 (weather permitting)
Franschhoek Village Market
Every Saturday, the central square comes alive with the scent of fresh food and the hum of conversation. Stalls brim with handmade goods, farm produce, and local treats, while musicians set an easy-going soundtrack to the day.
Why go?
Enjoy a laid-back day in Franschhoek with delicious eats, unique finds, and a lively community atmosphere. You might even find a group of locals playing a casual game of Boules, though not before raising a glass of wine and sharing a few nibbles.
Enjoy a laid-back day in Franschhoek, Image Credit: Franschhoek Village Market
Details
a: 29 Huguenot Road, Franschhoek, 7690
w: franschhoekvillagemarket.co.za
t: +27 73 172 8080
h: Saturday, 10h00 – 15h00 (weather permitting)
Root44 Market
Root 44 is a Stellenbosch landmark where flavour, style, and community come together. The contemporary space hums with energy, offering everything from global street food to art, wine, and artisan products.
Why go?
A vibrant, all-weather destination that blends market buzz with fine wine, art, and sweeping views of vineyards and mountains.
Root 44 is more than a market; it's a destination, Image Credit: Root44 Market
Details
a: Corner of R44 and Annandale Rd, Stellenbosch, 7600
w: root44.co.za
t: +27 21 300 3935
e: info@root44.co.za
h: Saturday, 10h00 – 15h00 (weather permitting)
Chapter 9/9
Featured image credit: Andrew Itaga
