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Lorgues is a lively Provençal village in the hinterland of the Var, between Draguignan and the Haute-Var. It is a fifteen minute walk from Villa Lorgues, so you can fetch fresh croissants in the morning and enjoy an aperitif on a terrace under the plane trees in the evening.
The Lorgues Tuesday market
On Tuesday morning the centre turns into one of the finest markets in the area. Stalls with fruit and vegetables from local farms, goat's cheese, olives and tapenade, honey, lavender, herbs and Provençal fabrics fill the old streets and squares.
Go early: between nine and eleven it is at its best and the stalls are still full. Bring cash and a basket or bag, and do taste; the traders are happy to let you try.
Friday farmers' market and brocante
On Friday there is a smaller farmers' market with local produce and a brocante where you can browse old china, linen and curiosities. A perfect morning if you are looking for a souvenir after a week by the pool.
What to see in Lorgues
The old centre is small enough to explore at leisure. Wander through the narrow streets with fountains, visit the large 18th century collegiate church of Saint-Martin and relax on one of the squares. Just outside the village is the chapel of Notre-Dame de Benva, known for its medieval frescoes.
For daily shopping, Lorgues has supermarkets, bakeries, butchers, a pharmacy and several small shops.
Food and drink
Lorgues is known among food lovers for Chez Bruno, the restaurant that has revolved around the black truffle for decades. Book well ahead. The village also has bistros, pizzerias and terraces for a simple lunch or a glass of rosé.
Château de Berne wine estate is within walking distance of the villa, with tastings, a bistro, a restaurant and marked walking and mountain bike routes through the vineyards.
Our tips
- Walk to the market in the morning and take a taxi or the car back when your bags are full.
- Many shops close at lunchtime, roughly from 12:30 to 3:00 PM.
- Monday is a common closing day for restaurants; call ahead before you go.
Header photo: Txllxt TxllxT, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons