Forcalquier market is just as beautiful as many other large Provençal markets. It’s in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region and is located close to Valensole. If you vacation around this area, your visit will most likely include the Gorges du Verdon as well. If you’re lucky, you’ll be in this region in July where you’ll see the vast expanses of lavender fields in the Valensole plains with mountains in the distance.
We visited this market last year on our Spring trip to the Gorges du Verdon. It was a gorgeous morning as we arrived early at the market and watched the stallholders carefully arrange their wares. I noticed that, more than any other market, there seemed to be much more choice of linens.
This washed linen is especially stunning. You can buy it by the metre. I have a weakness for the stuff. Sadly, so does my cat. She especially loves digging her claws into it.
The town of Forcalquier is wonderful to meander around. The market winds through the narrow streets. There are also many artists ateliers, and boutiques selling handmade items.
Typical Provence Apéritifs Made in Forcalquier
Forcalquier is known as the home of Distilleries de Provence which create several iconic Provençal apéritifs and digestives. Examples include Farigoule (a digestive made with wild thyme), Absenthe, Henri Bardouin Pastis (a high-quality Pastis- aniseed liquor) as well as Noix St Jean (walnut wine, check out my homemade recipe). There are many more varieties. I would suggest you try them gradually! When at a local restaurant, ask your server to suggest a local apéro.
You can also visit the factory.
Another interesting activity in the area is to take a hot air balloon ride. This is the only place I’ve seen hot air balloon rides advertised in Provence. France Montgolfières is one of the few balloon companies in France fully licensed to carry passengers by the Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC). A basket for two costs 900€. If anyone wants to buy me a gift certificate you can do so, kindly, on the site…
Forcalquier is close to Les Gorges du Verdon and Valensole. Check out my post about our Spring Weekend there.
Karlie says
These pictures are gorgeous and the market looks lovely. The fabrics are really striking against the background. It sounds like a lovely place for a day trip or a weekend trip.
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Kristen says
I’m watching you on Houses Hunters as I write this! Haha. Hope you’re enjoying France! 🙂
ashleyt says
Hope you enjoy the show!
I heard about a good antique and flea market in Forcalquier. Do you know about this? If so, What week day and times is it?
Hi Therese, according to this site, there’s a brocante (antique market) every first Sunday of the month: https://www.info-brocantes.com/forcalquier-04.html. Also, for flea markets (vide-greniers) check https://vide-greniers.org/04-Alpes-Haute-Provence?_otid=home-list for the weekly vide greniers in the area.