Want to buy fresh from the farm? South Australia is home to some of Australia’s best farmers’ markets and homegrown local produce, and they also offer a great opportunity to meet the makers, support authentic family farms and discover passionate foodie businesses. Not to mention enjoying the delicious locally-made cheeses, quality meats, handmade preserves and farm-fresh fruits and vegetables!
Adelaide CBD
Each weekend, the vibrant Adelaide Farmers’ Market is held at the historic Adelaide Showgrounds comes to life. Open Sundays from 8.30am-12.30pm, it’s South Australia’s largest farmers’ market, with over 100 stalls selling fresh, seasonal produce picked straight from the paddock. Don’t miss the live food and cooking demonstrations by top chefs, and keep an eye out for the activities and workshops on offer for kids in the Kids Club.
You’ll also find the beloved fashion and design market Gilles at The Grounds at the Showgrounds. Held once a month inside the Old Brick Dairy Pavilion with local food vendors, live music and stalls selling fashion, vintage, art and craft. One for the collectors and creatives, the dog-friendly market has different spaces to explore as well as grassed areas and children’s zones.
Make the most of your time in this beautiful city by rolling out a blanket and enjoying some of your treats at the Botanic Gardens. If you want to continue tantalising the tastebuds, there are plenty of restaurants in Adelaide to please all palettes. Enjoy some authentic Italian at the popular Italian restaurant Osteria Oggi, or enjoy some flavour-packed Vietnamese at Mai Kitchen.
Where to stay
You’ll find plenty of places to stay near the Adelaide Showground Farmers’ Market from stylish hotels to modern apartments, all centrally located and offering a relaxing home away from home.
Adelaide Hills
The weekly Adelaide Hills Farmers’ Market is open each Saturday from 8.30am – 12.30pm in Mount Barker. The market has been running for 12 years, bringing the best of the Hills together in one place with a focus on organic produce and chemical-free practices. Take a seat in the shade of a spreading elm tree and enjoy live music, quality coffee and connect with local farmers and artisan producers.
One of the best ways to enjoy the scenic Adelaide Hills is by basing yourself in Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest German settlement. With thriving restaurants in Hahndorf and traditional pubs and bakeries, you’ll find plenty to enjoy – all with the region’s wineries right on your doorstep. Taste some traditional German fare at Haus and German Spoon, or sample some local drops at Landhaus and La Prova.
Where to stay
Relax in olde-world charm in idyllic garden surrounds at hotels and lodges in Hahndorf – all close to your farmers market Adelaide Hills experience.
South of Adelaide
Heading south, the award-winning Willunga Farmers’ Market takes the honour of South Australia’s first farmers’ market, established in 2002. Held each Saturday from 8am till noon, the bustling market showcases fresh, local and fresh produce of the Fleurieu region. You’ll find dairy, meat and seafood, fresh bread and baked goods along with gourmet condiments and superb coffee.
This gorgeous slice of South Australia is also known for its incredible natural attractions and beaches. The Adelaide beach suburb of Glenelg is a great base for exploring the surrounding area between Wilunga and Adelaide – and it’s only just over a 30-minute drive. Relax at Glenelg Beach and you might meet local dolphins. There are also plenty of bars or restaurants to enjoy along Glenelg’s Jetty Road.
Where to stay
Enjoy a peaceful stay in Glenelg at the Comfort Inn Glenelg, with easy access to farmers’ markets, boutique shopping and picturesque beaches.