Spring Car Boot Sale of Saint-Parthem

Treasure hunting in spring in the Lot valley

Every year in April, the village of Saint-Parthem hosts its spring car boot sale, organized by the local association Symp'Art'M. The stalls are set up in the heart of the village, along rue Terra Olt, the main street lined with old houses with 18th-century slate roofs. Private sellers offer a wide variety of second-hand items: crockery, books, clothes, toys, tools, trinkets, and furniture, at affordable prices.

Saint-Parthem, a village of character at the gateway to the Lot gorges

With a population of about 400 inhabitants, Saint-Parthem is the last village before entering the gorges du Lot. The commune stretches through a narrow and picturesque gorge along the river, between steep slopes covered with oaks and chestnut trees. The village owes its name to Saint Arthème, Bishop of Clermont-Ferrand who died in 394, whose relics are kept in the parish church. This building, of pre-Romanesque origin, was remodeled in 1561 in the Renaissance style and features a portal adorned with a sculpted anchor.

Remarkable heritage to discover

Beyond the car boot sale, Saint-Parthem is worth a visit for its heritage. The Château de Gironde, which has overlooked the valley since the 11th century, once controlled river trade between the regions. The hamlet of Port d'Agrès, mentioned as early as 755, was an important ferry crossing point on the Lot – there were still 27 boats in 1835. The Terra Olt museum, housed in a former 18th-century convent, offers an immersive experience with automatons, holograms, and sensation simulators to relive life in the valley a century ago.

Catering and conviviality

The Saint-Parthem car boot sale offers a refreshment stand and a catering service to eat between finds. Entertainment punctuates the day and contributes to the festive atmosphere of this village event. The exceptional natural setting of the Lot valley, fifteen minutes from Decazeville and halfway between Entraygues-sur-Truyère and Conques, makes it an ideal outing for lovers of treasure hunting and discovering the heritage of Aveyron.

Information for exhibitors

Individuals wishing to exhibit at the Saint-Parthem spring car boot sale can register with the Symp'Art'M association. The price is €2 per linear meter. Exhibitors can set up from the morning, and entry is free for visitors.