The thirteenth century concathédrale Notre-Dame-du-Bourguet de Forcalquier that towers over the main market square.
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.
Verveine, a much loved French herb for tea. Wild thyme with the purple flowers still on, and dried organic sage.
Look at the colour of this fresh garlic! In season right now.
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.
Tempted to buy a village house?
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…
Aren’t these windows beautiful?
You’ll find little squares with mossy cobblestones and colourful shutters.
I love this corner so much that I couldn’t pick which photo to include!
Forcalquier is close to Les Gorges du Verdon and Valensole. Check out my post about our Spring Weekend there.
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