The French are rightly proud of their regional produce. Browsing through the juicy fresh fruit and vegetables at a local outdoor market (or in les Halles - the indoor market) is a sensory treat in itself, and there are always some mouth-watering specialities on offer. Don't miss opportunities for excellent value-for-money lunches while wandering through the market - an essential part of your holiday in France. My favourite memorable lunches include newly baked walnut bread (still warm and melt-in-the-mouth) at Bénodet market, Breton Andouille fumée (a smoked chitterling sausage originating from northern Brittany) at Perros-Guirec - utterly irresistible as soon as you catch that wonderful aroma! And socca, freshly made at the wonderful market in Antibes - a delicious savoury pancake made from chick pea flour. My many attempts at re-creating it have never quite met with the same result, but I keep trying. The tapenade there is also fabulous..... Perfectly placed holiday properties for discovering the gastronomic delights of French markets include the following:

C331A, Antibes, Cote d'Azur

Sleeps: 2

EUR 500 - 850 per week

Lovely apartment in 18th century building, Old Antibes.

· Excellent position for shops, markets (and soccas!)
· No need for a car.
· 500m beach.

P339C, St Remy de Provence, Provence

Sleeps: 4

EUR 450 - 900 per week

One of four lovely apartments with shared pool.

· Bustling market on Wednesdays, great atmosphere.
· Pleasant walk to choice of shops and restaurants.
· 30 mins Camargue, 45 mins Mediterranean.

P108B, Saint Michel l'Observatoire, Provence

Sleeps: 5

EUR 800-1500 per week

One of two delightful cottages, each with private pool.

· Large weekly market in attractive nearby town.
· Beautiful setting in peaceful rural Provence.
· Lots of local activities throughout the summer.

B757A, Concarneau, S. Brittany

Sleeps: 6

EUR 1000 - 1200 per week

New villa within walking distance of lively weekly market.

· Daily covered food market in town centre.
· 800m lovely sandy beach.
· Enclosed garden – great for family holidays.

P290A, La Bouilladisse, Provence

Sleeps: 6

EUR 1000 - 1500 per week

P290A The Times and Telegraph travel writer Anthony Peregrine describes the market in Aix as ‘the best in Provence’. This property is just a 20km drive from Aix, and superbly located for visiting the coast as well!

· Well equipped and comfortable villa with air conditioning.
· Private pool (fenced).
Secluded enclosed garden.

B739A, Benodet, S. Brittany

Sleeps: 6

EUR 900 - 1500 per week

Charming and elegant villa, short stroll to tidal lagoon.

· 3km Bénodet – bustling Monday market.
· Large secluded garden with trees and lawn.
· Short drive to beautiful sandy beaches and interesting towns.

P342A, Maillane, Provence

Sleeps: 12

EUR 1700 - 3000 per week

Restored 19th century farmhouse with private pool.

· Local weekly market in village square.
· 6km St Rémy - excellent Wednesday market.
· Quiet rural position - great for cycling.