A taste of country not far from town: a quaint cluster of destination shops and specialty stores, interspersed with curious peacocks and sociable goats, can be enjoyed at the Mushroom Farm literally minutes outside of the bustle of Hillcrest.
Situated at the old Chef Mushroom Farm in Assagay, the shops occupy the converted mushroom sheds and outbuildings.
Farmyard Inspired.
The Mushroom Farm offers a carefully chosen range of shops and businesses in an unfussy rustic farmyard inspired setting. It is easy to get distracted with the combination of tempting retail options, welcoming eateries, endless browsing opportunities and a veritable Beatrix Potter range of seemingly very happy residents – chatty goats, lazy puddle-ducks, magnificent hens, a family of peacocks, camera-shy rabbits … and some of the fluffiest guinea pigs I have ever seen.
The mix of shops offers speciality country fare – nostalgia, collectables and fashion, are found side by side with the eminently practical. The sense is they are pretty much mostly independent owner-run quality local enterprises, without any of the predictability of the usual chain store and franchised outlets.
Of special mention is the fabulous Veggie Shop – reminiscent of an old school family green grocer, the array of fresh, wholesome fruit and veggies is a sensory tonic. Loafers have a store close by for those who follow a low-carb regime; and foodies will enjoy the range of Peels Honey Hillcrest and the Mushroom Shop.
For home and garden enthusiasts – there is Tall Trees Home Décor, Garden Décor, and The Nursey, and for amazing décor ideas and collectables, a visit to Mrs Pinkerton and Shambala are a must.
Wardrobe makeover.
If your wardrobe needs an autumn make over, visit Senqu and Spence & Mae. Mrs Pinkerton and Shambala have fabulous garments and accessories too – as does Ground Cover leather. And if you prefer making to buying off the peg, then pop into fabric and habby shop, Fabricata.
For a quick home makeover, find some pretty picture books at the Reading Rooster and get the images framed at The Container Framer.
And because we are in the country after all, the Stable Cat & Unicorn Tack and Hitching Post cater for the care of horses, pets and life-stock; and one can pick up wellington boots; fertiliser and fencing poles! Other outlets include Enviro Timbers; Executive Fires and Milestone Paving.
And refreshments, light lunches, teas and treats can be found at Maddison Bakery & Caffe Mobile and Go Fresh Café. A leisurely brunch or quality coffee watching the animals rounds off an excellent meander.
Good to Know:
450 Kassier Road, Assagay
Kwa-Zulu Natal
South Africa
(t) 031 768 2143 from Wed to Fri and then
031 768 1366 (Sat to Tues)
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