The summer crowds may have dispersed, but finding parking remained a bit of a contact sport. We got lucky. The markets in Provence are a magical canvas echoing the vivid hues of the landscape. In the early fall, produce stands groan under the weight of bright orange courge and potimarron squash. Mounds of whole walnuts rival the irresistible whiffs of roasting chestnuts. Root vegetables from carrots to turnips to beets conceal tables in a rainbow of shades.
There are only a few Sunday markets in the region, and this one is the largest, attracting both locals and visitors. In the spring and summer months, there is also an evening market.
Instead of traditional market stands, seasonal produce, flowers, and fabrics are sold from the holds of small boats, the nego chins translation: dog-drowners.
These flat-bottom watercraft are roughly the shape of a kayak, propelled by a standing paddler. The nego chins are ideal for navigating shallow, slow-moving waterways. Enjoy this mid-summer celebration with traditional costumes, folk music and the dynamic floating market.
With over storefronts selling French antiques and collectables, it is no wonder that this mid-size town features on many tour agendas. Today, you can peruse furniture, artwork, tapestries, silverware and much more as you wind through a tangle of stores in seven 7 antique villages.
