Sénas- The Authentic Farmer’s Market

My Favourite Producer’s Market

The producer’s market in Sénas (in Provence they pronounce the final ‘s’ here) is by far my favourite producer’s market. I can show up in the morning with a pocket full of small change and leave with bags full of the freshest produce possible. Everything here is strictly in season and when you go regularly, you can see the subtle changes from week to week in the produce- even in the winter. Those who have grown or made their own product proudly present every unique market table here. My favourite stalls are those that sell only one item, as you can be sure there has been the utmost care put into producing or creating that product.

Low Prices

This morning I bought strawberries from a young woman who had a tiny table with only a few boxes. Onions from an elderly lady, clearly having spent most of her life in direct sunlight, who attempted to cajole me into buying each of her many different varieties of onions. Finally, free-range eggs from a lady who sold only fresh eggs and the live chickens which laid them. Sénas has unbeatable prices and quality not only for comestibles but also for plants as well.

Plants as well as Veggies

Last year I spent weeks nurturing my own seeds into something that resembled sprouts strong enough to plant into my garden. If you go to Sénas, you can buy young, robust herb and vegetable plants that cost the price of a seed packet. I really wonder why I bothered! This market is also where one actually witnesses Marcel Pagnol’s stereotypical jovial Provençal men in berets and neckties. The only thing it’s missing is a great café where one can sit overlooking, with envy, the Paysan life.

What you’ll find here:

Extremely fresh fruit and vegetables, live birds, eggs, farm-produced sausages and other meat, fresh juice, plants and cut flowers, fresh goat cheese/dairy products.

 When is it?:

From June 1-September 3: every morning except Sunday and public holidays
From October 1-May 31: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays
In winter there are fewer stalls. For the most variety, early Saturday mornings are best. The best produce is bought quickly. Stall holders generally pack up earlier here than the usual markets that end around 12:30.

 

Find out more about Provence Markets

Take a foodie market tour with Curious ! See Curiousprovence market tours for more information on experiences that I offer in the Alpilles and Luberon.