There is nothing much better than the wafting smell of freshly baked breads and cakes, and the bright colours of organic fruit and vegetables on a sunny Saturday morning. Those who pride themselves on their health and support of local products will likely enjoy browsing organic markets in search of these desirable offerings.  Here are some of the best organic markets available in the Eastern Cape:

Lavender Blue Market

Lavender Blue Market, Beacon Bay

The Lavender Blue coffee shop and farmer’s market is a firm favourite in East London. It provides a place for families to enjoy a day out in a charming country setting. The meals are prepared on the same day, using only the freshest organic ingredients. All the milk, eggs, chickens, and even the ice-creams are produced locally, and the organic fruit and vegetables are grown on neighbouring farms. At the on-site nursery, you can find everything from veggie seedlings, succulents, and saplings, to worm food. The Lavender Blue Market is open Tuesday to Friday from 08h00 – 15h30, Saturdays from 07h30 – 13h00, and Sundays and public holidays from 08h00 – 13h00.

Contact +27 (0)43 732 1171.

Eastern Star Handmade Market, Grahamstown

The Eastern Star Handmade Market is held at the Eastern Star Press Museum in Grahamstown and offers an assortment of handmade items for sale. The market is held on the first Saturday of every second month from 09h00 – 13h00.

Contact +27 (0)46 622 5639.

Tea in the Trees

Tea in the Trees, Cintsa

Tea in the Trees is quirky home produce market in Cintsa. Characterised by tea cups hanging in the trees, market goers will soon find themselves immersed in this foody wonderland. It offers all sorts of quality art and craft items, big breakfasts, tasty cakes, as well as a jungle gym, forest walk, and activities for the kids. The market happens on the first Sunday of every month from 09h00 – 14h00.

Contact +27 (0)72 611 2367.

Baddaford Farm Stall, Fort Beaufort

This farm stall in Fort Beaufort is a quaint roadside stopover, but definitely worth a visit as a destination in itself. Nestled between the cliffs in a beautifully manicured garden, you will find all the best local produce, such as jams and preserves, sauces, cheeses, baked goods, and fresh fruits. Between May and September, you can also pick up the ripest avocados and pecan nuts. While here, enjoy a cup of tea while the kids explore the garden. Baddaford Farm Stall is open Monday – Friday, from 08h00 – 16h30, Saturday from 08h30 – 16h30, and Sunday and public holidays from 10h30 – 16h30.

Contact +27 (0)46 645 1215.

Bathurst Farmers Sunday Markets

Bathurst Farmer’s Market, Bathurst

Bathurst Farmer’s Market is set in a forest clearing in Bathurst. You’ll find freshly picked vegetables, stone-ground breads, quiches, jams and preserves, cheeses, and cakes. Seasonal fruits like strawberries, as well as baklava, goat’s cheese, and tomato tartlets are available, along with an exciting variety of arts and crafts. The market is open on Sundays from 09h00 – 12h30.

Contact +27 (0)46 625 006

Bedford Morning Market, Bedford

This delightful market in Bedford offers colourful displays of fresh fruit and vegetables, exotic items you won’t find in a supermarket, and organic produce – what’s more, you’ll get to shop in the sunshine! Proceeds go towards the Bedford Animal Care. The market is held on the last Saturday of the month from 09h00 – 13h00 (10h00 start for June, July, and August).

Contact +27 (0)46 685 0199.

Prince Albert Market

Prince Albert Morning Market

The Prince Albert Morning Market offers a selection of tasty organic treats. Browse the stalls of homemade goodies, fresh fruit and vegetables, cheeses, and Karoo lamb. The market is open every Saturday morning in Prince Albert.

Contact +27 (0)23 5411 366

What organic market do you recommend in the Eastern Cape?