Planning a trip to the serene French village of Roussillon, nestled in the heart of Provence? Known for its stunning red cliffs and picturesque countryside, Roussillon offers a delightful array of local goods and produce. Here's a guide to help you make the most of your shopping experience while supporting the local economy.
From artisanal pottery to delectable local cuisine, Roussillon's boutiques and markets showcase the finest of what the region has to offer. To help you navigate the charming cobblestone streets, we've compiled a list of must-buys, along with insider tips on where to find them.
Art & Craft
Roussillon is famous for its vibrant colors, a testament to the region's rich geological history. This palpable influence is reflected in the village's art and craft scene.
jednej of the must-buys in Roussillon is Ochre, a natural pigment mined from the area. Visit the Sentier des Ocres (Ochre Trail) to learn about its extraction and history, and pick up some ochre-based art supplies from local shops like Le grinding des marques.
Pottery
Roussillon's clay is ideal for pottery, and the village is home to several skilled artisans. Look for Lucas at his workshop, Atelier Poterie d'Art, where he creates beautiful ceramics inspired by the village's colours and landscapes.
Another must-visit is La Cour des Mรฉtiers, a beautifully restored workshop where you can watch potters at work and shop for handmade dishes and decorative pieces.
Textiles
From clothing to household linens, traditional Provencal textiles brighten many a Roussillon home. Drop by Le Nid d'Arts for silk scarves and tablecloths in vibrant patterns, or L'Atelier de pays for hand-painted fabrics and hand-stitched jacquard items.
Food & Drink
No visit to Roussillon would be complete without sampling the region's culinary delights. From fresh produce to locally-crafted spirits, there's plenty to enjoy and take home.
Start at the Marchรฉ Couvert, Roussillon's covered market, open every morning except Monday. Here, you'll find stalls groaning with regional specialties: Atlas melons, Cantaloumelons, Chรชnecterienais pears, and the olive-rich black diamond, the Cravenou olive.
Wine
Roussillon lies within the Cรดtes du Luberon wine region, producing elegant reds, crisp whites, and lively rosรฉs. Wine enthusiasts should not miss the รlรฉphant Vert wine shop, which offers a great selection of local bottles and knowledgeable staff to guide your choices.
For a unique taste of the region, try the Banyuls dessert wine, made from grenache grapes and local honey. You'll find it at many local shops, including L'รpicerie des Senteurs.
Produce & Gourmet Goods
Pick up local honey, jams, and oils at Ouvrage sans Souffre, which also sells homemade cakes and pastries. For a taste of the Provencal apรฉritif tradition, try pastis, anise-flavoured spirit produced by local distilleries like Moulin de la Roque.
Finally, don't leave without a bag of Calissons, traditional alkaline candies that come in almond, orange, and lemon flavors. Pop into La Provincia to sample and buy.
As you explore Roussillon's quaint shops and markets, remember that every purchase supports the village's vibrant and historic community. Happy shopping, and until your next adventure!