We have compiled for you a comprehensive guide to traditional French markets accessible from your holiday cottage base in Frayssinet-le-Gélat
Discover the local markets of Frayssinet-le-Gélat
Nestled in the scenic Lot region, Frayssinet-le-Gélat is our charming village surrounded by rolling countryside, medieval churches, and inviting communal spaces. Though the village itself is small, its surrounding towns host vibrant weekly markets brimming with regional produce: from fragrant baguettes, artisan cheeses, honey, fruits and vegetables, to fine Cahors wines and honeyed prunes .
These markets are more than just places to shop—they’re vibrant social hubs, perfect for soaking up the authentic flavours, warm hospitality, and rustic rhythms of rural southern France.
Marchés Gourmands
In summer, evening “marchés gourmands” light up nearby villages—bringing together long wooden tables, local musicians and delicious fare under the stars. A popular example is the Thursday-evening market in Loubéjac, alive with food stalls and convivial atmosphere. See our separate guide here for marchés gourmands.
MONDAY MARKETS
Castelfranc (13 km, 16 min drive)
- Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM (afternoon market)
- Season: All year round
- Size: Small local market
Lacapelle-Cabanac (20 km, 25 min drive)
- Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM (afternoon market)
- Season: All year round
- Size: 3-6 exhibitors (small village market)
TUESDAY MARKETS
Puy-l’Évêque (12 km, 15 min drive)
- Time: Morning (typically 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- Season: All year round
- Size: 15-20 exhibitors
- Special: Beautiful hilltop village setting
Catus (20 km, 24 min drive)
- Time: Morning (typically 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- Season: All year round
- Size: 25-30 exhibitors (medium-sized market)
Wednesday Markets
Cahors (33 km, 40 min drive) ⭐ HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
- Time: Morning (typically 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
- Season: All year round
- Size: 60-100 exhibitors (large market)
- Special: Regional capital with extensive food offerings, local wines, and artisan products
Luzech (21 km, 25 min drive)
- Time: Morning (typically 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- Season: All year round
- Size: 25-35 exhibitors
- Special: Scenic riverside location
Thursday Markets
Monsempron-Libos (26 km, 29 min drive) ⭐ RECOMMENDED
- Time: Morning (typically 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- Season: All year round
- Size: 100 exhibitors (very large market)
Lacapelle-Cabanac (20 km, 25 min drive)
- Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM (afternoon market)
- Season: All year round
- Size: 3-6 exhibitors
Mercuès (24 km, 25 min drive)
- Time: Morning (typically 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- Season: All year round
- Size: 3-6 exhibitors (small market)
Friday Markets
Prayssac (10 km, 15 min drive) ⭐ HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
- Time: Morning (typically 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- Season: All year round
- Size: 70-130 exhibitors (large market)
- Special: One of the region’s largest and most diverse markets
Douelle (28 km, 35 min drive)
- Time: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM (afternoon market)
- Season: All year round
- Size: 4-5 exhibitors (very small)
Cabrerets (56 km, 60 min drive)
- Time: Morning (typically 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- Season: All year round
- Size: 30 exhibitors
- Special: Near Pech Merle caves
Saturday Markets
Cahors (33 km, 40 min drive) ⭐ HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
- Time: Morning (typically 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
- Season: All year round
- Size: 60-100 exhibitors
- Special: Weekend market with additional vendors and social atmosphere
Duravel (17 km, 20 min drive)
- Time: Morning (typically 8:00 – 12:00)
- Season: All year round
- Size: 4-6 exhibitors
Floressas (20 km, 25 min drive)
- Time: Morning (typically 8:00 – 12:00)
- Season: All year round
- Size: 10 exhibitors
Lalbenque (54 km, 55 min drive)
- Time: Morning (typically 8:00 – 12:00)
- Season: All year round
- Size: 30-40 exhibitors
- Special: Famous for truffle market in winter season
Lamagdelaine (36 km, 45 min drive)
- Time: Morning (typically 8:00 – 12:00)
- Season: All year round
- Size: 2 exhibitors (very small)
SUNDAY MARKETS
Cazals (8 km, 10 min drive) ⭐ HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
- Time: Morning (typically 8:00 – 12:00)
- Season: All year round
- Size: 30-40 exhibitors in peak season
Montcuq (33 km, 40 min drive) ⭐ HIGLY RECOMMENDED
- Time: Morning (typically 8:00 – 12:00)
- Season: All year round
- Size: 50-60 exhibitors
- Special: June 1 – September 30, pets not allowed in market area
NEARBY DORDOGNE MARKETS (45-60 minutes drive)
Sarlat-la-Canéda (45 km, 55 min drive) ⭐ MUST-VISIT
- Time: Wednesday & Saturday mornings (8:00 – 12:30)
- Season: All year round
- Size: One of France’s most famous markets
- Special: UNESCO World Heritage town, exceptional food market
Gourdon (35 km, 30 min drive) ⭐ HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
- Time: Tuesday & Saturday mornings (8:00 – 12:00)
- Season: All year round
- Size: Large regional market
- Special: Beautiful medieval town setting
SPECIAL SEASONAL MARKETS
Lalbenque Truffle Market (55 km, 55 min drive)
- Time: Tuesday mornings (December – February)
- Season: Truffle season only
- Special: Famous truffle market where dealers trade black truffles
Christmas Markets (Various locations)
- Time: December weekends
- Season: December only
- Locations: Cahors, Sarlat, Gourdon, and other major towns
MARKET TIPS FOR VISITORS
- Best Times: Arrive early (8:00-9:00 AM) for best selection
- Bring Cash: Many vendors prefer cash payments
- Bring Bags: Bring your own shopping bags
- Language: Basic French phrases helpful, but many vendors patient with tourists
- Parking: Saturday markets are busiest – arrive early for parking
- Seasonal Variations: Summer markets often have more vendors and tourists
WHAT TO EXPECT AT LOT VALLEY MARKETS
Local Specialties:
- Cahors wine and local vintages
- Rocamadour cheese
- Foie gras and duck products
- Fresh truffles (winter season)
- Walnuts and walnut oil
- Prunes and dried fruits
- Local honey
- Artisan breads and pastries
Typical Vendors:
- Local farmers with seasonal produce
- Cheese specialists
- Wine producers
- Artisan bakers
- Butchers specializing in regional meats
- Seasonal truffle dealers
- Clothing and crafts vendors
Note: Market times are typical but can vary slightly by season. It’s recommended to confirm current times with local tourist offices, especially for smaller markets.
