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Night Markets

MARCHÉS GOURMANDS

Experience a night food market like a true local. Sample the finest local produce, discover the flavours of authentic French cuisine and immerse yourself in the unique ambiance of market dining under the stars.

MARCHÉS GOURMANDS

Night markets in the Dordogne Valley, known as Marchés Gourmands, are not your typical food markets. They are a fusion of culinary adventure, local culture and social gathering, creating an unforgettable evening experience. These markets pop up in fields or on the cobbled squares of medieval villages, coming to life in the late afternoon and continuing well into the night.

A Marché Gourmand is much more than just a place to eat; it’s an invitation to partake in a dining experience like no other. As you stroll through the market, you’ll find an array of stalls offering the freshest local produce, often organic, cooked on the spot and ready to be enjoyed.

AN EVENING TO REMEMBER

As you explore the market, you’ll be greeted by the lively sounds of children playing well past their bedtime. Quite often, you will be able to enjoy local entertainment and live music under the night’s sky.

As you wander from stall to stall, you’ll have the opportunity to sample a wide variety of dishes that showcase the rich culinary heritage of the region.

You could start the evening with a refreshing slice of local melon or perhaps indulge in some duck magret, paired perfectly with a chilled glass of local wine, like a Bergerac or a Coteau de Glanes.

And of course, no French dining experience would be complete without cheese, like a creamy Rocamadour with honey on a slice of bread.

Under the twinkling night lights strung through trees or illuminating a historic village square, these markets are a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. The focus is always on the food, but the setting adds an extra layer of magic to the experience. For those with adventurous tastes, some stalls also offer more exotic dishes, and there are always vegetarian options available, ensuring that everyone can find something to enjoy.

A SOCIAL AFFAIR

One of the most charming aspects of the Marchés Gourmands is the communal atmosphere.Tables are meant to be shared, so don’t be shy about sitting next to strangers.

In fact, this is a wonderful opportunity to improve your French, make new friends, and soak up the convivial spirit that defines these markets. You’ll find that the evening becomes as much about the company as it is about the food.

The sound of live music adds to the festive atmosphere, creating a backdrop of French charm that makes the night truly special. As the evening progresses, you’ll find yourself savouring not just the food, but the entire experience—a real taste of France in every sense.

WHERE TO FIND A NIGHT FOOD MARKET IN SUMMER

In July and August only

  • Monday 
    Montignac-Lascaux
    Eygurande – from 5 to 8pm
    Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne – from 5 to 8pm
  • Tuesday  
    Beynat – from 5 to 8pm
    Coly-Saint-Amand
    Le Bugue
    Tourtoirac
    Voutezac-Le Saillant – from 5 to 8pm
  • Wednesday 
    Rouffignac-St-Cernin
    Aubas
    Chartrier-Ferrière – from 5 to 8pm
    Meymac – from 5 to 8pm
  • Thursday 
    Saint Léon-sur-Vézère
    Auriac du Périgord
    Ayen – from 5 to 8pm
    Sainte-Féréole – from 5 to 8pm
    Monceaux-sur-Dordogne – from 5 to 8pm
  • Friday  
    Les Eyzies
    Valojoulx
    Peyrignac
    Saillac – from 5 to 8pm
    Neuvic – from 5 to 8pm
  • Saturday
    Audrix

 

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