I rarely cover events I haven’t personally attended however with my busy schedule and my sheer love for the team and wine at Gabrielskloof, I couldn’t help but share the excitement of their “kamers-vol-esque” country Christmas market that’s coming up in the second week of December.
Think all things handmade, homemade, delicious, fresh and beautiful, Gabriëlskloof is set for another finely curated array in the Overberg. A hugely popular event, festivities at the renowned olive and wine estate’s 7th annual Favourite Things Market take place this year on 16, 17 & 18 December.
Just in time for that last minute yet meaningful Christmas shopping, this popular ‘shop ‘n social’ on the family-owned and run farm outside Bot River has been extended into a three-day affair. Here, just one hour from Cape Town, indie craft and design meet fabulous local food and excellent wines.
The popularity of the event, especially on opening night, has required that table seating alongside the magnificent mirror ponds be pre-booked. Entrance to all visitors on all three days remains free of charge, except for those desiring guaranteed seating on the Friday night.
This artisanal fair will transform Gabriëlskloof’s gorgeous courtyard with its lush lawn into a creative hub of life’s little pleasures, with every last creation at the assemblage of unique stalls carrying the estate’s stamp of approval.
“When last did you stroke a furry alpaca or shopped with a glass of wine in your hand? Our market is a colourful celebration of all our favourite things. It’s for young and old to feast on the best the Overberg and surround can offer in terms of design and food and to simply have a lekker kuier on the koppie,”
-Nicolene Finlayson, the person behind this inspiring artistic celebration.
Among the foodie delights, enjoy oysters and bubbly; wine and cheese; fresh bakes and burgers; and, maybe a handmade chocolate or three. 
Shop for luxurious items made of alpaca wool; fine local designer jewellery; and, bespoke local and imported clothing. Exquisite quilts will be on display as well as intricate ceramics and decorative fynbos. There will be handmade toys and knits too; and, so much more.
Now, set this all to music and the magic happens! On Friday night, the Gypsy Jazz trio will play, followed by the dulcet strains of a French accordion on Saturday and Sunday.
“The Gabriëlskloof Favourite Things Market has become a fixture on the calendar of many families and people who enjoy a refined, pleasant and relaxed occasion in a beautiful location,” says Nicolene. “We’re excited to welcome back our regulars, many of whom have become friends; and, to introduce newcomers to something special.
“Why would you consider shopping for festive season gifts at a crowded, chainstore-filled shopping mall when can get what you need right here?”
For Friday night table bookings, send an email to Nicolene@gabrielskloof.co.za. Bookings should be for a minimum of six people with each ticket priced at R100 per person. In addition to a table for you and your friends, the ticket includes a glass of Gabriëlskloof wine upon arrival.
Gabrielskloof Favourite Things Market 2016 Dates & Times:
Friday, 16 December from 17h00 to 21h00
Saturday, 17 December from 10h00 to 17h00
Sunday, 18 December from 10h00 to 15h00
For more information contact Nicolene Finlayson on 028 284 9865 or nicolene@gabrielskloof.co.za;
Visitors attending the Gabriëlskloof Favourite Things Market are encouraged to do so responsibly. A shuttle service is available at a special rate from Hermanus costing R50pp, per trip. For transport bookings, contact Andre at info@whalecoasttours.com or Shirley at sjcraies@gmail.com.
