A short drive from Porterville will take you into the mountains above the neighbouring town of Piketberg. The area, known as Piket-Bo-Berg, is home to a hugely popular monthly market which takes place from 9am to 12pm on the Kruistementvlei Farm on the last Saturday of every month – the next one takes place on 28 January. The Piket Bo-Berg Farmers Market has become an institution for locals and visitors alike – who are drawn to the hand-crafted items and delicious goodies, ranging from crispy croissants and baked treats to artisanal charcuterie meats and the valley’s own fresh fruit, as well as olive oil on tap and mead made the traditional way.  There are also stalls that sell items such as books, olive products and beautifully crafted wooden games and items for the home.

The town of Piketberg itself, which is nestled at the foot of the Piketberg Mountain range, offers stunning natural surrounds and abundant outdoor activities for hikers, mountain bike enthusiast, trail runners and fun-seeking families. Piketberg boasts a unique and fascinating self-guided tour – the Piketberg Historical Route – which is the best way to experience the heritage of this town, with its meticulously restored cottages and the imposing neo-gothic style Dutch Reformed Church. A visit to Org-de-Rac, the local organic winery, is a must to sample their wine and cheese pairing, as well as the fresh oysters served with Methode Cap Classique.

And while in Piketberg, don’t miss Piketberg’s increasingly popular Last Friday – a food and art festival that takes place across the village on the last Friday of every month – the next event takes place on Friday 27 January. Visitors can expect a celebration of arts, culture, live music and delicious artisanal foods and drinks.

Piketberg’s neighbouring town of Goedverwacht, which was established in 1889 as a Moravian Mission station also offers a wonderful authentic market experience. The Goedverwacht Organic Market, next taking place on Saturday 5 March, offers fresh organic produce, food stalls, home-made products, freshly baked roosterkoek, tractor rides and more.

This fascinating little settlement, with its historic whitewashed thatched homes and brightly painted windows and doors, boast a beautiful old water mill – now the Mill Museum – a parsonage, as well as the imposing Moravian Church (all National Monuments).  Visitors can also enjoy a picnic in the picturesque surrounds.

Not far from the towns of Piketberg and Goedverwacht is Koringberg, which hosts the wonderful monthly Farm Stall Market at the Desert Rose Farm Stall. The next market takes place on Saturday 11 February and market-goers can expect live music, wine and beer tasting, and sales, baked goods, fresh produce, delicious food, great coffee, arts and crafts, as well as a kids corner with face painting and a play area.