Summer and winter alike, Provencal markets are a vital part of local life on the French Riviera. In Saint-Aygulf, as in Les Issambres, they’re much more than just places to buy produce: they’re sensory rendezvous where tradition, terroir and the art of living come together. For discerning holidaymakers, these markets represent a gentle immersion in local culture, with quality products, encounters with passionate craftsmen and gourmet pleasures to be savored by the sea.
The Saint-Aygulf market: an authentic atmosphere on Tuesdays and Fridays
Located in the heart of the village, on the main square, the Saint-Aygulf market is held every Tuesday and Friday morning. Easily accessible on foot from the beach or the villas in the center, it is surrounded by cafés and restaurants where you can linger after your shopping.
You’ll find a wide range of typically Provençal products: sun-drenched fruits and vegetables, olives and tapenades, goat’s cheeses, garrigue honeys, as well as Corsican charcuterie, cut flowers, handmade soaps and colorfully printed summer clothes. Organic and gluten-free products are also well represented, with several stands run by committed local producers.
For families, the market is also an opportunity to introduce children to regional flavors. Some stalls offer free tastings of jams, artisanal juices or exceptional products such as the Haut-Var black truffle.
Les Issambres market: seaside charm every Monday
The Issambres market, located in San Peïre, takes place every Monday morning on the seafront, a stone’s throw from the port and the main beach. The atmosphere here is more intimate, almost seaside, with a view of the Mediterranean and the gentle scent of the surrounding pine trees.
This market favors quality over quantity: stalls are well spaced out, merchants are available, and products are carefully selected. You’ll find
- top-of-the-range olive oils produced in the Var and Drôme Provençale regions;
- fresh local fish, ideal for grilling at the villa;
- hand-woven wicker baskets, perfect for your beach outings;
- Elegant Provencal fabrics to decorate your summer tables;
- a few stalls selling costume jewelry and local crafts, for gifts or indulgence.
This market is particularly popular with families staying in Les Issambres, who enjoy a stroll along the seafront after filling their baskets, or sit on a café terrace to watch the local entertainment.
Night and summer markets: a different atmosphere
In July and August, the communes also organize night markets along the seafront, notably on the esplanade de San Peïre in Les Issambres or near the seafront in Saint-Aygulf. These markets, often open between 6pm and 11pm, attract a family clientele in search of entertainment, original souvenirs and regional crafts.
There are stalls selling handmade jewelry, driftwood creations and children’s games, as well as food trucks offering Mediterranean cuisine, artisanal ice creams and local wines to sample on the spot. The atmosphere is festive but always controlled, with no thunderous music or oppressive crowds – ideal for a refined family evening out.
Why integrate markets into your upscale holiday?
For a holidaymaker staying in a prestige villa, local markets offer several advantages:
- Authenticity: you discover seasonal produce directly from the people who grow or make it.
- Quality: products are often fresher, tastier and sometimes even impossible to find elsewhere.
- Everyday elegance: composing a lunch with market produce, on the terrace of your villa with a sea view, is a simple, sincere luxury.
- Encounters: exchanges with craftsmen and producers create links and enrich the stay.
And for those who prefer to delegate, some concierge services can do the shopping for you, respecting your food preferences, allergies and budget. Simply place your order the day before.
The best addresses nearby
In Saint-Aygulf, take advantage of the market to discover :
- La Fromagerie de l’Estérel, for locally matured cheeses.
- La Maison Sarroche, delicatessen specializing in local produce from the Var.
In Les Issambres, after the market, take a seat:
- At Prao Plage, for a chic seaside lunch based on seasonal produce.
- Or at the Bistrot Côté Plage, for a more relaxed atmosphere, perfect for families.
Tips to optimize your visit
- Arrive early: between 8:30 and 9:30 am, to avoid the crowds and get the best choice.
- Bring some change: although more and more exhibitors accept cards, some only take cash.
- Bring your own bags: or better still, an elegant wicker market basket.
- Ask questions: craftspeople love to talk about their work, and are happy to share preparation tips.
Conclusion
The Saint-Aygulf and Les Issambres markets embody the very essence of Mediterranean luxury: taking time, savoring the moment, and choosing quality over quantity. Whether you’re a gourmet, a decorator or simply curious about local traditions, these markets offer you an authentic sensory interlude. A simple and elegant way to add a local touch to your villa stay.
