Local Markets
Fresh produce at the farmers market in Cahors. Image credit: tourisme-lot.com
Our Guide to Local Farmers Markets
Are you looking for an authentic French experience, something that goes way beyond typical tourist attractions? Look no further than the local farmers markets of the Lot. This beautiful region is renowned for its fertile soil and agricultural traditions, so it’s the perfect place to explore the local food scene.
Locally Grown Produce
One of the best ways to discover the hidden gems of Lot is by visiting its farmers’ markets. Here, you can purchase the freshest fruits and vegetables, sample artisanal cheeses and cured meats, and even pick up unusual souvenirs like handcrafted pottery or woven baskets.
If you can drag yourself away from the tranquility of la Bergerie, the Sunday market in the picturesque village of Cazals is not to be missed. Here, you can browse stalls selling everything from locally grown produce to handmade jewellery. After you’ve finished shopping, take a stroll around the lake or sit and have a picnic before heading home.
Regional Specialities
Another must-visit market is on Wednesday morning in the mediaeval town of Monflanquin. The market has been running for over 700 years and is known for its lively atmosphere and variety of vendors. Make sure you try the local speciality, pruneaux d’Agen (dried prunes). They are delicious for breakfast, snacking or in savoury dishes too.
For a more intimate market experience, head to nearby Duravel on a Saturday morning. Here, you’ll find a small but charming market selling seasonal produce, homemade jams, and freshly roasted chicken. It’s the perfect place to chat with the friendly locals, including your gite host! Come rain or shine Beverley is there with her stall, selling homemade cakes, curries and farm fresh produce.
Fill your diary and your basket!
Prayssac has a fantastic market in the heart of the village. Every Friday of the year, forty or so stall holders sell high quality food products. It’s a real treat to do your shopping and then enjoy a drink on the terrace of one of the village’s many cafés and restaurants.
On Thursday morning, head to the quaint town of Monsempron-Libos and one of the biggest traditional markets in southwest France. In the summer, the streets are buzzing with over 200 exhibitors. So you will definitely find something to satisfy your taste buds. After exploring the market, take a leisurely walk through the town, admire the priory and meander down the pretty narrow streets.
Picturesque Puy-l’Évêque, situated at the neck of a long loop of the river Lot, is at the centre of the Cahors wine region. Every Tuesday, at the diverse and friendly market, you will find fresh vegetables, cheese, meats, local strawberries from Bonaguil, and maybe even one or two wine producers. It is a genuine French experience!
Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a unique cultural experience, include a visit to at least one farmers’ markets on your holiday agenda. So grab your basket and start tasting the delicious produce of this beautiful region. And don’t forget to pick up some fresh meat, fish and vegetables for the BBQ!
Some of the regional specialities to look out for
Did you know..
The Occitanie/Pyrenees-Mediterranean region has the largest number of products protected by official quality marks. They include fresh meat, fruit and vegetables, dairy products, cured and cooked meats, and of course, wines. There are currently 120 products that are either an AOC (Appellation d’Origine Controlee), AOP (Appellation d’Origine Protégée), IGP (Indication Géographique Protégée), AB (Agriculture Biologique) classification or Label Rouge quality mark.