Best to slip on your most comfy shoes when you visit any of the three Amazing Mill Markets in Geelong, Ballarat and Daylesford because they’re each browsing and poking-about shopping experiences spread out in huge venues – ripe for Eureka moments.
Fab places to find Christmas gifts, the market-style venues offer an eclectic mix of goodies, showcased by more than 500 stallholders in all. Gift vouchers ($20 and $50) are available.
Goods range in age from the 1850s to the present day. You might find a beautiful item of vintage clothing, an old vinyl record you’ve hankered to add to your collection, or a gorgeous piece of antique jewellery. It’s all about discovery.
There’s a fantastic range of home décor, furniture, fine china and glassware, books, antiques, memorabilia, collectibles, and Australian pottery, as well as industrial items, and new clothing and products.
A gang of friends could hire a mini-bus and make a day of it visiting all three locations – there’s plenty of parking for buses and cars.
Mill Market also offers function props, with life-size animals, plants and props for special events – items are available to purchase or hire.
And each has a café, perfect for a pick-me-up when a break is needed, or a great way to finish or start the day’s shopping.
There’s The Coffee Stop in Newcomb (Geelong), open every day and offering an array of delicious food and great coffee.
Roman Around Café in Ballarat, under new management since last month, is in the process of changing the menu, with the schnitzel rolls and Italian donuts highly recommended. The huge parking area makes it great for car clubs and bus arrivals.
In Daylesford, it’s The Mill Markets Café, run by local foodie, Dani, who brings a range of freshly made food to her menu. There’s a tasty selection of cakes, while the all-day brekkie is especially recommended. It’s a popular venue for large groups to meet up.
Mill Markets Geelong, 114 Bellarine Highway, Newcomb; Mill Markets Ballarat, 9367 Western Highway, Warrenheip; and Mill Markets Daylesford, 105 Central Springs Road, Daylesford. Open daily (except for Christmas Day). Details: www.millmarkets.com.au
