Photo: Abu Shawka via Wikimedia Commons, CC0. Resized and cropped.
The Elgin Railway Market lives in a building from the 1940s on Oak Avenue in Elgin, just outside Grabouw, built by Italian prisoners of war. It has been renovated in a steampunk and art deco style that suits its railway setting.
Come on a Saturday or Sunday for the full market. Food vendors serve curries, Neapolitan pizza, poke bowls, ribs and burgers, while the bar pours local wines, beer and craft gin. Stalls sell jewellery, leather goods, clothing and gifts.
There's live music, and plenty of seating indoors and out, so it's easy to settle in for the afternoon. Keep an ear out for the vintage steam train, a must-see for children (and adults) when it pulls in.
The market is the gateway to the Elgin Valley, so take your time on the drive out. The road climbs over Sir Lowry's Pass and runs through orchards. The weekday coffee shop and limited evening hours vary, so check the market's schedule first.
