French markets are renowned for being wonderful places and our nearest market at Saint Antonin Noble Val rates up there with the best.
Taking place every Sunday all year round (and we mean all year, even the depths of winter) not only does the market fill the entire town, flooding the main square, Place de la Halle, it then spills out into the narrow mediaeval streets, bringing people from all over the region to this lovely, picturesque town. It really is the place to be on a Sunday morning, especially in summer.
Gastronomy from across the three overlapping regions of the Tarn, Tarn et Garonne and Aveyron can be sampled here, with everything from Sanglier cured sausage (wild boar), to delicious hot rotisserie chickens, colourful macarons and the delicate local goat’s cheese. There’s fresh fruit and veg in abundance from local agriculteurs with cherries, apricots and asparagus, leafy lettuces, huge ripe tomatoes, vibrant peppers and yellow waxy potatoes. Not to mention an assortment of artisan bread, desserts and pastries to die for. One visit and you’re fed for the week!
It’s not just food on sale either, stall holders plying wares of fragrant teas, aromatic spices, rich Gaillac wines and floral local honey are always in attendance alongside wood crafts, leather, woven baskets, pottery and plants.
It’s fair to say that there’s an awful lot to take in so a moment’s pause in the café in the square is a must. Place de la Halle is the perfect place to people watch, take in the beauty of the town and be reminded of all of the things that make the French way of life so appealing. It truly is a bustling local market – one we’re proud to call ours.
When?
The market at Saint Antonin Noble Val takes place every Sunday from (very early) to around 2pm
Where?
Head to the main square Place de la Halle and it branches out from there.
Parking is free, but you will have to find a space first!
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