Vide-Greniers de la SPA de Vals-les-Bains

The annual car boot sale of the SPA of Vals-les-Bains

Every spring, Vals-les-Bains hosts one of the most anticipated flea market events in southern Ardèche: the Vide-Greniers de la SPA, jointly organized by the local radio station Fréquence 7 and the Société Protectrice des Animaux. With its 129 exhibitors, this annual spring gathering brings together individuals and bargain hunters in a warm and supportive atmosphere, in the heart of the Volane valley.

A solidarity sale for animals

Beyond the flea market aspect, the Vide-Greniers de la SPA de Vals-les-Bains is above all a solidarity event. The profits from the organization directly contribute to the funding of the local SPA shelter and its actions, allowing for the care, feeding, and rehoming of abandoned or distressed animals. By coming to browse or by setting up a stall, each participant contributes to this animal welfare effort.

The presence of Fréquence 7, the leading local radio station in southern Ardèche, ensures strong media visibility and well-organized event management. The two partners mobilize their respective networks to make this day a festive and popular occasion, rooted in the local life of Vals-les-Bains.

129 exhibitors for all tastes

With its 129 exhibitors, the car boot sale offers a wide variety of items:

• Clothing, shoes, and accessories for adults and children
• Toys, board games, and childcare items
• Books, comics, magazines, and vinyl records
• Tableware, glassware, and table settings
• Trinkets, decoration, and collectible items
• Small furniture, paintings, and folk art objects
• Tools, gardening, and sports equipment
• Household appliances and various second-hand items

The diversity of stalls, run by both individuals clearing out their attics and regular flea market vendors, guarantees visitors will always find a hidden gem at a reasonable price.

Vals-les-Bains, a spa town in the heart of Ardèche

Vals-les-Bains is a commune of about 3,500 inhabitants, nestled in the Volane valley in southern Ardèche. Known since the 19th century for its mineral springs and thermal baths, the town is one of the most renowned spa resorts in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Its mineral waters, recognized for their digestive and cardiovascular properties, have attracted spa-goers and tourists for over a century.

Beyond its spa heritage, Vals-les-Bains is today an active hub of local life in Ardèche, just a few kilometers from Aubenas, the district capital. The town has shops, restaurants, and a dynamic network of associations, as evidenced by the organization of this annual car boot sale. The green setting of the valley and the charm of the Belle Époque thermal architecture make it a pleasant place to visit, even for bargain hunters who combine a stroll with good deals during this May event.

Fréquence 7, media partner and organizer

Fréquence 7 is a local radio station whose influence covers southern Ardèche and which supports numerous associative and cultural events in the region. By partnering with the SPA to organize this car boot sale, Fréquence 7 goes beyond just radio broadcasting to become an active participant in local life. This collaboration between local media and charitable associations illustrates the vitality of the associative fabric in Ardèche.

Practical Information

Entry is free for visitors. The event takes place once a year in May, in the center of Vals-les-Bains. For exhibitors wishing to book a spot, it is advisable to contact the organizers (Fréquence 7 or the local SPA) in advance, as places are limited given the event's success.