Isle Sur La Sorgue Acelindano 6Isle Sur La Sorgue Acelindano 6
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l'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

Today, we’re off to l’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. The capital of Antiquarians in Provence, it’s THE destination for those who love international antiques and second-hand items. Ready, steady, start hunting!

9 am. A stroll around the market.

As soon as you’ve parked, you’ll see the market stalls on Avenue des Quatre Otages. And you’ll quickly notice the beautiful building which houses La Caisse d’Epargne: no doubt about it, you’re in L’Isle sur la Sorgue. Walk along the canal and be swept up by the market atmosphere – a market which is open on Thursday and Sunday all year round from 6 am to 2 pm! Wander along the little streets to reach Place de la Liberté! The market here is in full swing and there’s a relaxed feeling. You’ll hear the stall holders selling their products, see the waiters in the cafés serving mint cordial but most of all, don’t miss the beautiful facade of the Notre-Dame collegiate cathedral that proudly reigns over the square. And what about a little cup of coffee? Our favourite is the Café de France. Its olive green storefront and “Belle Epoque” style give this local bistro a little extra something which makes you want to take a seat there.

10.30 am The Village des Antiquaires de la Gare.

After your coffee break, get in antiques mode because, yes, that’s what you came here for because you love antique hunting. We’re sure you already know that L’Isle sur la Sorgue is the Antiques Capital of Provence! Cross over to the other bank and go past the many waterwheels which used to help the paper-making industries, silk weaving and oil mills. The Village des Antiquaires de la Gare has found a home in a former 19th-century spinning mill where no less than a hundred galleries are open all year round from Friday to Monday. Discover furniture and period items in the maze of antique dealers’ areas: Rococo chandeliers, vintage furniture, demi-johns and 50s chairs, there’s something for everyone.

12.30. Lunch break in the shade of the workshop.

To enjoy food fresh from the market that follows the seasons, take a seat in a secret garden. Follow our advice and book a table near the wisteria! Stéphanie et Daniel Hébet welcome you with their singsong accent in a garden which is an ode to tranquillity. On one side, Le Jardin du Quai with its semi-gourmet Provencal cuisine and on the other, L’Atelier du jardin, with its guinguette-bistrot de pays atmosphere! I was enchanted by the workshop and also by 2023 vice-world champion the chef’s eggs mayonnaise, the perfect starter to share. Antique hunting sure works up an appetite!

2.30 pm. Head for Parc Gautier

Twice a year, Parc Gautier hosts the International Antiques Fair. Two key moments not to be missed are the Easter weekend and the weekend of 15th August. Did you know? This huge open-air art market is listed as one of the “best spots” to go antique hinting in France and even in Europe! Second-hand enthusiasts and antique lovers wander around the white tents dotted all over the park. Difficult not to give in, you’ll want to buy everything. Vintage items, Art Deco lamps, period tableware… pure heaven for second-hand enthusiasts. Looking for deals is also a time to chat with the exhibitors: they know all the secrets of the items which they found here and there and have some lovely anecdotes about the past lives of those items. There’s a coin guinguette where you can take a break and get cool under the trees, perfect when you’ve been searching for items for several hours. The park has everything: it’s right in the middle of the town on the banks of the River Sorgue with a pretty town hall château which gives it character!

6 pm. Apero in an Isle sur Sorgue setting.

With your arms full of finds, get cool with a beer or a glass of wine. There’s no lack of nice bars in l’Isle sur la Sorgue! For a bubbly aperitif, head for Beer’s Chope: over 50 varieties of beer to delight all palates. Located on the banks of the River Sorgue, a real must is to sit on their terrace and watch the town. A little extra for the team that creates an atmosphere and gives you a great time! In the heart of the city on Place Rose Goudard, 17 Place aux Vins, you can share a bottle with friends, enjoy fine wines and delicious tapas, all in a convivial atmosphere. More intimate and lounge-like, Monsieur Tu is the address for you: great cocktails, epicurean cuisine, this is the place where everyone’s on first-name terms!

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Une publication partagée par monsieurtu_ (@monsieurtu_)

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