A gourmet weekend in Provence: markets and restaurants

Weekend in Provence: set sail for a gourmet getaway amidst colorful markets and inspired restaurants. In 48 hours, discover the best markets of the Grasse region, taste local specialties, and savor seasonal cuisine—with Le Relais Impérial as your warm base camp between the sea and the mountains.

In short

• Ready-to-live itinerary: 48 hours around Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey to combine markets, walks and good restaurants.

• Ideal base: the authentic charm of the Relais Impérial, its 28 rooms and its two restaurants.

• Key markets: Grasse, Valbonne, Mouans-Sartoux — local produce, guaranteed Provençal atmosphere.

• Specialties to try: tapenade, pissaladière, goat cheeses, olive oil, honey and wines from Provence.

• Practical tips: best times to go, budget, market basket, travel and booking.

The Pays de Grasse, a region between sea and mountains

Between the vibrant energy of the French Riviera and the tranquility of the Prealps, the Grasse region offers a mosaic of landscapes and flavors. Just 15 minutes from the world's perfume capital, Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey charms visitors with its gentle altitude, sunny climate, and authentic markets. It is here that the Relais Impérial welcomes you, a boutique hotel and restaurant on the Route Napoléon.

Staying at the Relais Impérial means choosing elegant simplicity and genuine hospitality. Marion and Alice cultivate a homey atmosphere and champion regional, seasonal, and convivial cuisine. Their story and vision give the establishment a soul and an added touch of authenticity to discover within the family history .

48 gourmet hours around Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey

Saturday morning – Market and appetizers

Start with a large Provençal market in the hinterland: Grasse (local produce, herbs, cheeses) or Valbonne (village atmosphere, artisans, market gardeners). Let yourself be guided by the colors and aromas, taste before you buy, and support local producers. For up-to-date information (days, locations), consult the Pays de Grasse Tourist Office .

Chef's tip: put together a "Provençal platter" for the picnic with olives, tapenade, heirloom tomatoes, fresh goat cheese, fougasse and a drizzle of olive oil — simple, fragrant, irresistible.

Saturday afternoon – Perfumes and nature

Continue your journey to Grasse, the cradle of perfumery and flowers. Since 2018, the skills associated with perfumery there have been inscribed on UNESCO 's Intangible Cultural Heritage list —a global recognition. Complete your trip with a walk in the Prealps of the French Riviera: open views, fragrant maquis shrubland, dry-stone huts, and paths winding between terraced fields.

Saturday evening – Bistronomic dinner at Le Relais

Back at the Relais Impérial, head to the bistronomic restaurant: revisited French cuisine, local and seasonal produce, and perfectly paired flavors. Weather permitting, enjoy the terrace for al fresco dining. Market-fresh meats, fish, and vegetables are combined with expertly crafted sauces and generous desserts for a truly gourmet experience.

Sunday morning – Farmers' market and leisurely stroll

Visit another renowned market in the area (Mouans-Sartoux is particularly popular for its farmers' market stalls). Chat with the artisans, ask for preparation tips, and leave with products that are easy to transport. Markets vary depending on the season: check the days and times with local offices and town halls.

Sunday lunch – Wood-fired pizzas and grilled meats

A relaxed atmosphere awaits at the Relais pizzeria: golden, perfectly risen dough, wood-fired oven, and seasonal toppings. It's the perfect opportunity to share pizzas by the slice, beautiful salads, or grilled meats, always accompanied by a plate of vegetables that celebrates the flavors of Provence.

Sunday afternoon – Route Napoléon and panoramic views

Before setting off again, follow a section of the Route Napoléon for a breathtaking panorama of the Pre-Alps and the Mediterranean Sea in the distance. This legendary road, dotted with viewpoints, tells a story of history and a way of life as you pass through its perched villages. Plan your stops on the official Route Napoléon website .

Markets not to be missed (and how to take advantage of them)

• Grasse: the place to be for sun-ripened fruits and vegetables, goat cheeses, honeys and edible flowers. Local atmosphere and generous stalls.

• Valbonne: a village square atmosphere, artisans, ceramics, jams and scented oils. A picturesque setting for a coffee on a terrace.

• Mouans-Sartoux: strong presence of producers; ideal for sourcing farm products and sourdough breads.

• Villages in the surrounding area: many towns offer a small weekly market; the Pays de Grasse Tourist Office centralizes useful information.

To buy well: 1) Arrive early for the best selection; 2) Bring cash and a small insulated bag; 3) Ask about the harvest season and cultivation methods; 4) Taste before buying; 5) Favor short supply chains.

Southern specialties you absolutely must try

Provence tells its story on the plate: green or black tapenade, anchovy paste, Niçoise olives, eggplant caviar, fougasse with olive oil, and the famous pissaladière. For cheese, try the fresh or aged goat cheeses from the Pre-Alps, served with garrigue honey. Those with a sweet tooth will appreciate calissons, citrus jams, and candied fruit. As an aperitif, a glass (in moderation) of rosé from Provence or a floral white wine pairs perfectly with these dishes.

For gourmet gifts: aromatic olive oils, whole herbs of Provence, crystallized flowers, lemon-flavored salts, artisanal biscuits. Choose travel-friendly sizes (100ml bottles for air travel, well-sealed bags).

Sleep well and eat well at the Hotel Le Relais Impérial

The Relais Impérial offers 28 rooms in 5 categories, designed to suit all types of travelers: couples, families, and business travelers. Some rooms have a terrace with views of the Grasse hills, while others feature a relaxing bathtub. Discover the categories and availability on the rooms page .

On the dining front, two complementary experiences await: a bistro-style restaurant in the evening featuring seasonal cuisine, and a wood-fired pizzeria for a convivial atmosphere. The terraces allow you to enjoy the outdoors, both summer and winter. For extras during your stay (parking, advice, opening hours), please see the services page and remember to book your stay in advance during peak season.

Good to know: Le Relais is also an ideal venue for private events such as birthdays or family gatherings. Inquire about their event services .

Practical tips for a successful weekend

• When to go: May–June and September–October offer mild temperatures and well-stocked markets; in summer, go in the morning; in winter, enjoy a quieter crowd.

• Transportation: a car makes it easy to stop at markets and villages; consider carpooling and grouping points of interest together. Once there, combine walking and short distances.

• Budget: prioritize seasonal products and "producer" baskets. Vary your meals at markets and hotels for a good cost/pleasure balance.

• Equipment: basket, reusable bags, small cooler, water bottle, and hat. For air travel, opt for airtight containers and cabin-sized items.

• Ethics: ask about the origin, respect the season, and choose reduced packaging and reusable tableware for your picnics.

Gourmet and nature activities nearby

• Perfumes in Grasse: workshops, museums and flower fields — a living heritage, recognized by UNESCO since 2018. A unique sensory immersion to understand the process, from flower to bottle.

• Hiking in the Regional Natural Park of the Prealps of the Azur: easy or more sporty trails, fragrant garrigue and open viewpoints; information and good practices on the PNR Prealps of the Azur website.

• A historical stroll along the Route Napoléon: hilltop villages, viewpoints, chapels; plan your breaks on the official Route Napoléon website .

FAQ

When is the best time for a gourmet weekend in Provence?

Spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October) are ideal: mild weather, abundant markets, and reasonable crowds. In summer, aim for early mornings to enjoy the cooler temperatures and avoid the crowds. Winter is a lovely alternative for a more relaxed pace and longer interactions with producers. In any case, check market days and special events with local tourist offices to optimize your culinary itinerary.

Can we enjoy the markets without a car?

Yes, but you need to plan ahead. Some major markets are accessible by bus or carpooling from the main towns. Combine public transport and walking to explore one area at a time (for example, Grasse plus a nearby village). If you're staying at the Relais Impérial, ask at reception for advice on the most convenient routes, up-to-date timetables, and alternatives (local taxis, daily rentals). Bring a collapsible basket and travel light.

What local specialties are easy to bring back as souvenirs?

Opt for dry or well-packaged products: whole herbs de Provence, flavored salts, artisanal biscuits, calissons, jams, tapenades in small jars, and honey and oils in 100ml bottles for carry-on luggage. Ask the producer for shockproof packaging. Avoid very fragile products (fresh cheeses) if you are traveling for a long time or by plane. For traceability, choose identified producers and keep the original labels.

Where can I stay to be in a quiet location but close to the markets?

Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey is an excellent compromise: nestled in the peaceful Prealps, 15 minutes from Grasse and a short distance from renowned markets (Valbonne, Mouans-Sartoux). The Relais Impérial offers 28 rooms in five categories, a warm atmosphere, and two on-site restaurants. Enjoy a serene base between the sea and the mountains, with personalized advice to help you plan your culinary journey each day.

Key points to remember

• A weekend in the Pays de Grasse combines authentic markets, perfumes and pre-alpine landscapes.

• The Relais Impérial: charm, calm, 2 restaurants and 28 rooms for a flawless stay.

• 48-hour turnkey itinerary to discover Grasse, Valbonne, Mouans-Sartoux and the Route Napoléon.

• Star products: olive oil, tapenade, goat cheeses, honey, fougasse, rosé and white wines.

• Best times: spring and early autumn; summer mornings for markets.

• Want to book or ask a question? Contact us via the Contact page and let's create your tailor-made gourmet getaway.