Shopping

Shopping

We are well served by a number of supermarkets in the local area. Many of the shops close for lunch, generally between 12pm- 2pm, although in high season, July & August, the supermarkets are often open all day. As far as possible we have detailed the opening times below – you have been warned, as there is nothing more frustrating than going to buy something for lunch only to find the shop closed.

• Intermarche – along the lines of Tescos

• Aldi (as in the UK) – cheap & cheerful, limited range

• Lidl (as in the UK) – cheap & cheerful, reasonable range

• Leclerc – large Hypermarket, stocks everything

• Auchan – large Hypermarket, stocks everything

• Hyper U – large hypermarket, stocks everything

The Hypermarkets stock everything from swimming pools & clothes to all your food & wine.

Andre at the village store has fresh bread & croissants every day (except Monday) from about 9.30am & 3pm. It is possible to order your bread, as he sells out fast in the summer. He also sells all the essentials – wine, beer, snacks, fresh salad & vegetables, cheese, yogurts etc, but only a very limited range of fresh meat such as burgers.

Markets

Generally all the markets are held in the morning & close around 1pm. Some of the markets are very much for locals – such as our nearest in Vergt. These give you a colourful insight into the French way of life. Others are a combination of locals & touristy stalls – such as le Bugue, which is well worth a visit.

• there is a smaller market everyday in Perigueux

Marche Nocture/Gourmand

In the summer, there are also numerous “marche noctures or marche gourmand” - evening markets.

These are not normal markets, but rather like a food hall, where the village squares are filled with tables & chairs, and surrounded by a number of different food stalls. You can buy your bread, wine, and a range of food. There is normally some sort of live music & sometimes a few stalls selling jewellery etc. Just take a picnic set, as knives & forks/ glasses are not normally supplied. Normally a great evening out in beautiful surroundings. We can recommend “our” favourites.

Often at week-ends or bank holidays you may come across a brocante / vide grenier (antique / car boot sales) which are held throughout the region, during the summer. These are great for a rummage, but don’t expect a bargain. The French put a very high value on second hand goods.

Details can either be found in the various leaflets, or just ask us.