Saint-Laurent Annual Flea Market in Bargème

Bargème, highest village of the Var

Bargème, perched at 1097 m on the Pre-Alps southern foothills, is the Var's highest village. Overlooked by its ruined seigneurial castle (listed monument) and medieval ramparts, it counts under 100 permanent residents and belongs to France's Most Beautiful Villages. Geographic isolation, clean air, sweeping views (Lachens, Canjuers, Estérel on clear days) make it a confidential but sought destination.

The Saint-Laurent feast

Saint Laurent, patron of Bargème, is celebrated each 10 August (or nearest weekend). Key moment of village life : solemn mass in Saint-Nicolas church and Saint-Laurent chapel, procession, country meal, music and, for years, the association flea market. Both an economic event (proceeds for local associations) and a moment of conviviality open to visitors.

The flea market

At 10 chemin de Bigoure, the flea market mainly gathers village and neighbouring communes' (Comps-sur-Artuby, La Bastide, La Roque-Esclapon, Trigance) private sellers. Classic rural jumble : clothing, tableware, books, bric-a-brac, small furniture, terroir objects. Small permanent population naturally limits scale, but that human size is its quality.

Visiting Bargème

Visit in an hour : narrow alleys, vaulted passages, castle, church. Breathtaking ramparts view. Saint-Laurent chapel, off-centre, is worth the detour. Massifs around offer fine highland walks. The approach road alone is worth it.

Tips

Winding mountain access from Comps-sur-Artuby or Castellane (04). Limited village parking, use outer areas. Early in summer. Essential to combine with village and castle. Walking shoes, and consider a hike.