Visitors explore the Valley of a 1000 Hills for so many different reasons; the opportunity to buy hand made crafts, to hike the nature reserves, ride a steam train, eat delicious foods at the Shongweni Farmers Market or even to just relax and be pampered at one of the spas.
Although not often mentioned, art is also a great motivator for many to head into the hills. And so the CTO decided to try something new this festive season and with very little time to spare, planned 1000 Hills Art Show to coincide with the Umgeni Steam Train running.
The Inchanga Station Craft Market
After a frantic morning spent putting up at all the signage at the Inchanga Station I had an opportunity to explore a little while waiting for the train to arrive.
There are some really amazing crafts on display, from beaded work, to leatherwork, some wooden toys, knitted items and so on. I headed over to the food court area and had the most delicious egg and bacon sarmie I think I’ve ever had (food always tastes better when someone else makes it).
The brilliant blue sky was making it clear it was gonna be a warm day so I was particularly grateful for the iced coffee’s and sumptuous chocolate milk shakes on offer.
The Art Show
But I wasn’t there to shop or eat, I was there to help out with the little 1000 Hills CTO stand, providing masks and hand sanitizer (can’t be too careful these days).
After the stands were up “Wesley” the rain pulled into the station and disgorged excited and happy visitors into the craft market. I couldn’t help but notice the bee-line they made to the food and coffee stands!
After their bellies were full, they started to explore a bit and headed out our way to the art show. On display was some amazing artwork and bead work courtesy of Hillcrest Aids Center.
All in all, a successful first show and hopefully the sign of many more to come.
Lots of signage to the art show Some of the wonderful art on show 
Amazing beadwork from the Hillcrest Aids Center 
Visitors at the sanitizing station