Broc'à Brem

A summer flea market between vines and ocean

Broc'à Brem is the big summer flea market of Brem-sur-Mer, held each last Saturday of July for many years. It draws holidaymakers and locals alike to this unique Vendée wine-producing town - Brem produces the AOC Fiefs Vendéens, notably the Mareuil-Brem cuvée. The event falls in peak summer when population swells with tourists.

In the town centre or a suitable car park, it gathers private sellers and some semi-professional dealers. The atmosphere is that of Vendée summer flea markets: relaxed, family-friendly, with a holiday scent.

What to find

• Private sellers' bric-à-brac
• Small furniture and decor (especially coastal)
• Toys and board games
• Paperbacks (popular for holidays)
• Beach and pool items
• Vintage crockery and glassware

Brem-sur-Mer, coastal wine town

Between Brétignolles-sur-Mer and Les Sables-d'Olonne on the Côte de Jade. 3,000 year-round residents plus fine sandy beaches (Dunes, Mines, Sauveterre). Unique feature: vines running down to the coast producing Fiefs Vendéens (AOC since 2011).

Heritage worth detour: 11th-century Saint-Nicolas church, La Gachère fishing port, GR8 coastal path with stunning ocean views.

Tips

Combine with Brem wine tasting at a local winery, coastal path walk or seafood lunch at La Gachère port. Brem's beaches are usually less crowded than neighbouring big resorts.