The Mushroom Farm offers a good ole' country market experience
What started as a delightful mushroom farm with a humble wooden stall, this family-owned and operated centre on the outskirts of Assagay, has grown into a highly successful and wholesome country marketplace, attracting visitors from all over the greater Durban area. With a serene and laid-back atmosphere, The Mushroom Farm is undoubtedly one of the most tranquil and memorable country market experiences in the Upper Highway area.
The centre comprises a carefully curated collection of charming shops that offer an array of enticing retail options, inviting eateries and plenty of browsing opportunities. With its rustic farmyard setting, it's easy to be swept away in the relaxed ambience that evokes the idyllic country charm of Assagay's bygone era. Perusing the impressive selection of bespoke shops in a rural setting offers you a unique and charming experience that will transport you and your family back to a simpler time.
A vibrant and friendly welcome
Driving into this farm-style complex in the warm and welcoming countryside, you'll be drawn in by the vibrant artwork adorning the walls with bold strokes and a lively colour palette done by none other than Giffy himself - a professional Durban-based street artist known for his visually striking large-scale installations all around the city. His work is a celebration of The Mushroom Farm and captures the spirit of this hidden gem in all its glory.
As you walk in, be sure to meet the menagerie of selfie-ready residents. Some barnyard animals are contained in a small pen allowing your kids to enjoy a free petting zoo experience at their leisure. These include talkative goats, curious geese, lazy puddle-ducks, majestic hens and some camera-shy bunny rabbits that create an ambience reminiscent of the Peter Rabbit novel. As you stroll about, you'll encounter a family of proud peacocks and some roaming roosters, one in particular who regularly wanders into a pet supply store and helps himself to the feed.
Eats, treats and vintage finds
A delightful assortment of shops utilising the space of converted mushroom sheds and outbuildings have turned the humble wooden farm stalls into a bustling hub of activity, attracting visitors from all corners of the greater Durban region.
At the heart of the complex is Chef Mushrooms - a shop where the public can purchase an exciting selection of fresh wholesale mushrooms. The farm also hosts other complimentary businesses including a fresh produce store, an impressive plant nursery, a florist and a garden decor centre.
The Mushroom Farm features mainly independent, locally sourced and owner-operated businesses. These stores stand out from the typical chain and franchise outlets, offering visitors a very personal and authentic shopping experience where the vendors are friendly and eager to share their knowledge about their products. Peels Honey is a standout shop that boasts a wide selection of honey in various shapes and forms, as well as a range of other local products. Shambala is a mystical Aladdin's cave filled with an impressive selection of unusual garments, ornaments, art pieces, gift ideas, incense and prayer items. Loafers Low Carb Superstore (informally known as the banting store) is the perfect one-stop shop for those seeking low-carb foods and deli options. Mrs Pinkerton is a legendary quirky shop filled with retro home decor, vintage clothing items, accessories, incredible antiques, collectables, old films and music on both vinyl and CD.
The Garden Decor centre is well worth a visit, utilising a large space of the complex, it offers a stunning selection of colourful pots and unique ornaments to grace your outdoor spaces. The Veggie shops provide an abundance of well-priced fresh produce, while Spence and Mae offer unique gift ideas and beautiful blooms. For those who appreciate the country lifestyle, Unicorn Tack caters for equestrian care, pets and livestock - even offering Wellington boots, fertilizer and fencing poles.
Grab breakfast or coffee at Maddison Bakery & Caffe Mobile which hosts an incredibly kid-friendly play area with a large jungle gym. There is also a character bakery with low lighting and hay bales where you can pick up an assortment of freshly baked bread. GoFresh cafe is also a great place to enjoy an intimate lunch before you pick your kids up from school - the toasted sarmies are a must-try.
Location and operating times
Situated just off the M13 on 450 Kassier Road, The Mushroom Farm is a stone's throw away from Hillcrest Private Hospital. Just in case your GPS signal lets you down, it's hard to miss the bold lettering of the address and destination at the humble entrance. Operational times are from 7 am to 5 pm on weekdays, 7 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, and 8 am to 3 pm on Sundays. There's convenient parking and plenty of picnic tables for you and your family to enjoy a morning or afternoon well-spent.
The Mushroom Farm is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. Being child-friendly and wheelchair accessible, it's a wonderful choice to spend a day out with the family. With its diverse range of offerings, this whimsical wonderland caters to everyone - young and old, collectors, connoisseurs of gourmet delights, horticulturalists and animal aficionados alike. Come explore this enchanting destination where every visitor is bound to find their own slice of magic.
