It was a burning hot morning the day we visited this famous market situated in the heart of Provence. If I’m honest, I was beginning to dread facing the crowds and overheated streets, but then, I’d never been to L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue before. The first thing I realised was that it features a great many cooling waterways, and these really did have the effect of reducing the sun’s heat.

L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue with Sunday market trucks

L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is a picturesque town which plays host to one of the region's most popular Sunday markets. Known for its blend of antiques and local crafts, the market is also a paradise for food lovers. With stalls overflowing with fresh produce, regional specialties, and artisanal drinks, the market showcases the rich culinary traditions of Provence.

A Culinary Journey Through Provence

The market's food section, centred around Place de la Liberté, is a vibrant, bustling area where vendors display an impressive array of fresh, seasonal produce. Piles of sun-ripened tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and colourful peppers set the scene, while stacks of melons and baskets of cherries reflect the changing seasons. The fruit and vegetables are for the most part locally grown, and the vendors are happy to offer tips on preparation or share stories about the farms where the produce originates.

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Cheeses and Charcuterie

Cheese lovers will find themselves in a foodie heaven - there’s just about everything imaginable from creamy goat cheeses typical of the region to aged varieties with intense flavours. The selection of charcuterie is equally tempting, with local sausages, pâtés, and terrines made from recipes passed down through generations. Many stalls also sell olives and tapenades, staple condiments of the Provençal table that pair perfectly with fresh baguettes available from the market’s bakers.

L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue treats ready to eat

Freshly Prepared Foods

One of the highlights of the market is the array of ready-to-eat foods, perfect for those who want to sample the local cuisine on the spot. You’ll find vendors roasting chickens on open spits, their golden skin crisped and seasoned with Provençal herbs. Nearby, other stalls offer socca, a savoury chickpea pancake originating from Nice, cooked on large griddles and served hot with a dash of pepper.

For a quick snack, try the fougasse, a Provençal flatbread often filled with olives, herbs, or cheese. Crepe stands are also popular, offering both sweet and savoury options filled with Nutella, fresh fruit, ham, or cheese, satisfying any craving you might have during your market stroll.

Artisanal Drinks and Local Wines

The market also offers a fine selection of local wines and artisanal drinks that reflect the unique terroir of Provence. Wine merchants showcase bottles from nearby vineyards, including rosés, whites, and reds that pair perfectly with the market’s fresh foods. Many vendors offer tastings, providing an opportunity to sample different varieties before making a purchase.

Beyond wine, there are stalls selling locally produced fruit juices, craft beers, and the anise-flavoured spirit pastis. Freshly squeezed juices, made from seasonal fruits, offer a refreshing way to cool down on warmer days.

Sweet Treats and Baked Goods

For those with a sweet tooth, the market does not disappoint. Stalls brimming with pastries, cakes, and confections catch the eye. Tarte tropézienne, a local brioche filled with creamy custard, is a must-try. Other stalls offer colourful macarons, flaky croissants, and an array of nougats and candied fruits.

Honey is another specialty, often infused with lavender, thyme, or rosemary, reflecting the herbs that grow abundantly in the region. Jars of jams made from apricots, figs, and berries line the shelves, showcasing the abundant fruit harvests of Provence.

The Sunday market at L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is quite simply a feast for the senses, especially for those who appreciate good food and drink. It’s more than just a place to shop; it’s an opportunity to engage with local producers, discover traditional Provençal flavours, and enjoy a leisurely morning in one of the most charming settings in the region. Whether you’re there to stock up on fresh ingredients or simply to sample the tastes of Provence, the market provides a delightful immersion into the local food culture.