7 of the best farmers markets
Experience the best of both worlds. It's not just the destination but the journey – a lovely morning drive and then a stroll through a farmers’ market showcasing local produce, artisan sauces and condiments, and crafts.
There are so many things to love about a farmers market. Naturally, they give you access to ultra-fresh produce, lower your food miles, and help you directly support growers and producers. But farmers' markets are also a brilliant way to meet locals and truly get a sense of a destination. Whether you visit for a day trip or make a weekend of it, here are seven regional markets where you can expect to leave with a car boot full of bounty.
Where: Gippsland region (1 hour, 45-minute drive from Melbourne)
When: Third Saturday of the month, 8.30am–1pm
In a region renowned for fine produce, it makes sense to go straight to the source. This community-focused market features between 45–70 stalls showcasing just-picked produce, gourmet cheese, local beef and sweet treats. And pets are welcome to come along for the ride.
Where: Macedon Ranges (1 hour, 30-minute drive from Melbourne)
When: Second Saturday of the month, 8.30am–1pm
Accredited by the Victorian Farmers’ Market Association, Kyneton’s market features stallholders from around the state selling seasonal produce and quirky handmade items. The leafy Macedon Ranges are the perfect city escape during autumn and winter – and even better when you can return home with some fresh sourdough, artisanal salami and small-batch relish.
Oberon Community and Farmers Market, NSW
Where: Blue Mountains (2 hour, 45 minute drive from Sydney)
When: First Saturday of the month, 9am–1pm
Admire the autumn foliage in the picturesque Blue Mountains as you venture out to Oberon market, where the friendly locals are always up for a chat. As well as fruits, vegetables, wines, nuts, olives and baked goods, you’ll find artisan knitwear and alpaca products – just what you need for cool-weather adventures.
Urangan Pier Markets, QLD
Where: Harvey Bay (4 hour drive from Brisbane)
When: Every Saturday, 7am–1pm
Adjacent to the historic 1917 Urangan Pier, this farmers market is worth a trip for the seaside scenery alone. Stock up on Fraser Coast mushrooms, local honey and seasonal fruit, as well as ready-made meals. Each week features a different live music act, and there’s a range of handicrafts to browse.
Margaret River Farmers’ Market, WA
Where: Margaret River (3 hour drive from Perth)
When: Every Saturday, 7.30am–11.30am
There’s no reselling allowed at this popular weekly market, which means you’re guaranteed to be buying food directly from the people who have grown or produced it. Make sure to bring plenty of reusable bags because you’ll want to buy a bit of everything, from chocolate and condiments to pasta, and poultry. Not to mention, you can’t visit Margs without buying a bottle of wine to take home.
Willie Smith’s Artisan Markets, TAS
Where: Grove (30-minute drive from Hobart)
When: Every Saturday, 10am–2pm
In the beautiful (and bountiful) Huon Valley, Willie Smith’s Apple Shed hosts an intimate weekly market offering a variety of local produce – from vibrant leafy greens to perfectly crisp apples – as well as handcrafted ceramics and leather goods. There are changing breakfast specials each week and fabulous coffee to fuel your drive back home.
Where: Angaston (1 hour, 10 minute drive from Adelaide)
When: Every Saturday, 7.30am–11.30am
Held in the historic Vintners sheds, this food-only market is a springboard for small-scale local producers to gain a public following. Look out for Udder Delights goat’s cheese, Birdwood Venison pies, Barossa Distilling Co’s award-winning shiraz gin, the brightly coloured creations of Barossa Bagels and there are regular cooking demonstrations, too.
Disclaimer
Viva Energy Australia Pty Ltd (“Viva Energy”) has compiled the above article for your general information and to use as a general reference. Whilst all reasonable care has been taken by Viva Energy in compiling this article, Viva Energy does not warrant or represent that the information in the article is free from errors or omissions or is suitable for your intended use.
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