On our recent trip to Provence we spent most of our time in the Luberon. Its central location helps make it the heart of the region. When you think of Provence you’re likely envisioning the Luberon. Lavender and sunflower fields adorn the rolling landscape like a colorful carpet connecting each village. The Luberon is known for having some of the best French markets. We spent a good portion of our trip exploring many of the markets and I highly recommend that when you’re planning your visit, you do the same. This was our first time and we didn’t even get to them all. That just means we have to go back, right? Knowing what I know now, here are my tips for planning your visit to the Luberon markets.
When and Where are the Luberon Markets
TheLuberon.com has a complete list of when and where the markets are here. They have a lot of great resources for planning your trip to the Luberon, but if markets are what you seek then start with their complete list. Every day there are multiple markets going on. You’ll just need to decide which one(s) you have time for. This may depend on where you are staying and how long you’ll be there.
Which Luberon Markets are “The Best”
It’s too difficult to say which Luberon markets are the best. Can I say I had a favorite? Maybe, but that would be splitting hairs. Each Luberon market has something to offer and each village has a unique identity. As someone who just enjoys browsing aimlessly, I found each market to be just as fun as the last. Although, these are the villages that I felt particularly drawn to and would definitely return to again:
Coustellet – The Sunday market here was one of my favorites so we went twice! It’s one of the larger markets that also has a farmer’s market, meaning the farmers actually sell their own produce. Fruits and vegetables will therefore be seasonal and at the peak of freshness. I have never seen such enormous garlic bulbs and the reddest of tomatoes. You can even smell the produce in the air – it’s that fresh. You’ll also find flowers and the usual mix of woven bags, clothing, soaps, and housewares. Parking can be difficult as the market is located right in town so go early (this is my tip for all of the markets, actually)! After perusing the market for a bit we had lunch at Paolo’s Pizza, a food truck parked next to a bar serving rosé for three euros. It was perfect!
Cucuron – If you’ve seen the movie A Good Year then you will recognize the long pool of water beneath towering trees. It is really something to behold in person – absolutely stunning! On hot summer days, like the day we visited, it kept the market cool. Vendors line up around the pool making a market loop. There are also a few cafes where you can grab a coffee and watch the market hubbub.
Lourmarin – The market here was much bigger than I anticipated. It winds through the outer streets of Lourmarin for what seems like forever. There are quite a few linen vendors here, as well as your usual roundup of produce, honey, and soap, etc. I found a pair of striped espadrilles for a mere ten euros! Lourmarin also has the best cafe culture. After walking through the market head deeper into town and you’ll discover a convergence of streets lined from one end to the other in cafes. The terraces were bustling and we opted for a petit déjeuner of coffee, juice, and croissant for five euros. There are a lot of boutiques in Lourmarin so if you enjoy a day of shopping then this is the village for you.
Ménerbes – Ménerbes is really charming. When I think of a quintessential provence village, Ménerbes comes to mind. We visited on a non-market day (which I highly recommend) and enjoyed a very peaceful day of exploring on foot and having lunch. There are so many beautiful things around every corner that I took a ton of photos here. The village is elevated high above the vineyards below with breathtaking views all around.
Gordes – Another village perched high above everything is Gordes. It’s rather stunning as you approach it by car, like a fairytale village you just know has a princess trapped in a tower at the top. Gordes is simply put – gorgeous! The market here is HUGE as well. You’ll find just about everything here. I would also plan to visit on a non-market day. There are many cafe options and even Laduree.
Other villages we visited included Bonnieux (we stayed here), Apt, Fontaine-du-Vaucluse, Goult, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Joucas, Lacoste, Murs, Roussillon, and the villages of Les Baux-de-Provence and St Remy-de-Provence. All were an easy drive from our home base of Bonnieux.
My Tips for Planning Your Visit
Arrive early for the best parking and selection.
Spend time exploring the village. After doing your shopping just get lost along winding streets.
Plan to have lunch in the village. There are many great options including a few I recommend here.
Beyond the outdoor market you can find clothing boutiques and other specialty shops in the village. Make time to peruse those as well.
Bring a reusable shopping bag, or do as the French do and have your basket bag handy. I bought mine at the market in Lourmarin but the best prices I found were in Coustellet.
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. In the summer this means a linen dress and espadrilles.
Bring cash! Some of the vendors still only accept cash. We found this to be mostly true when it came to purchasing produce.
Practice basic French conversational words and phrases before your visit. Not only will you be able to communicate with vendors more easily but you’ll enjoy a more immersive experience.
Go to one of the villages on a non-market day. It’s a completely different feel and much less crowded.
Bring your furry friend! We brought Lola with us and loved being able to include her in the experience.
For more tips, check out my Eat + Stay + Play : Provence Guide.
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xo – Erin
Luberon Markets: My Tips for Planning Your Visit appeared first on CathedralsandCafes.com. If you see this content published anywhere else, please email cathedralsandcafes@gmail.com.
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