We have the perfect solution to any Christmas shopping headaches: head for the hills its cool, its calm, its outdoors, we have a soothing view, endless coffee shops and we have no Boney M! …. And you will find the perfect gift!
The notion of Christmas shopping fills most of us with dread – having to fight our way into big brand chain stores in the vain hope of finding something interesting and different. In the dozens of little owner-run shops, boutiques, stalls and pop-ups throughout 1000 Hills – ALL our gift ideas are interesting and different!
Christmas Markets
And there is a flurry of Christmas gift markets over the next week or so, which means not only is your gift bespoke and unique – but you are investing in a micro-entrepreneur who really needs the support at this time. Over lockdown, many people looked to create a side-hustle, which for many has kept them financially solvent over Covid. It has also meant discovering and developing amazing new skills – such as soap making, crafts, wood work, upcycling and culinary skills.
As well as the one-off pop-up markets – remember there is the regular Shongweni Farmers and Craft Market where one can buy authentic, original and unusual Christmas gifts while supporting small businesses, and enjoy a leisurely holiday brunch under the trees, with breathtaking views. The market is home to an amazing assortment of kids’ activities, food and beverage options, handmade crafts, early morning yoga sessions, live music, plenty of outdoor seating, and safe parking- and now too, its very own theatre! A gorgeous family show, How to Train your Human, opens on Saturday.
The Inchanga Market operates when the Umgeni Steam Train is running. There will be special Christmas starlight markets with carols throughout December. There are train-themed gifts for the railway enthusiast and an abundance of budget-friendly home-made crafts, secret Santa options and edibles.
Both these markets have additional market days ahead of Christmas (see below).
Country-style retail and entertainment clusters can be found throughout 1000 Hills. These allow multiple micro-destinations in close proximity: Mushroom Farm, PheZulu, 1000 Hills Village, Stone House, Talloula, Fig Tree Farm and Sunset Valley all have great gift ideas and stocking fillers.
Similarly, retail outlets which finance worthwhile organisations are also important to consider – such as the retail options at the Kloof and Highway SPCA or Woza Moya at Hillcrest Aids Centre.
Another idea is to give a plant as a Christmas present – Ludwig’s Star Roses have beautiful rose bushes which make fabulous gifts; and there are nurseries at Macnut Farm; Hillcrest Aids Centre; 1000 Hills Village, Stone House, SPCA, Fig Tree Farm and Mushroom Farm which offer potted living gifts.
Now that school is out, make a day of it with a gentle meander among 1000 Hills; stop off to browse and shop along the way; and enjoy a light lunch with a view. Christmas shopping has never been so easy!
Markets in more detail:
Inchanga Craft Market / Carols by Candlelight
16, 17 and 18 December, 9am until 8pm
Sunday 19 December, 9am until 3pm
Shongweni Farmers and Craft Market
Welcomes visitors every Saturday until Christmas from 6.30am until 1pm – with special market days on Thursday 16, Friday 17 and Sunday 19 December from 8am until 2pm.
Oxford Village Christmas Night Market
Wed 8 and 15 Dec 5.30pm until 9pm
Sunset Valley Christmas Markets
Thurs 16, Fri 17 and Sat 18 December, 9am until 2pm
1 Clement Stott Rd, Assagay
(old Heidi’s farmstall)
Family Lifestyle Market at Bub & Co, Kloof
Night Market Sat 18 Dec 5pm – 9pm
Morning Market: Sun 19 Dec 9am – 2pm
1 Igwababa Rd Kloof / next door to Makaranga
19 December – includes photo with Santa (R70)
Also a collection point for Upper Highway Baby Home
(bring pre-loved baby toddler clothing, nappies, toys and books for babies)
Mushroom Farm
Wed 15 December
Christmas Carols and late night shopping
From 4pm
450 Kassier Road, Assagay
