Local products near Grasse: addresses and markets 2025
- Cedric KTORZA
- 2 days ago
- 7 min read
Local products near Grasse: here's where to find them in 2025. Whether you're looking for Provençal markets, farms to visit or short supply chain baskets, this practical guide lists the best addresses around Grasse and Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, with advice, itineraries and must-try specialties.
In short
The markets in the Grasse region are mostly held in the morning (around 8am–1pm): arrive early for the best selection.
Opt for short supply chains (AMAP, producers) for fresh, seasonal products at fair prices.
Local specialties to target in 2025: Nice PDO olive oil, Provence PGI honeys, Pre-Alps goat cheeses, edible herbs and flowers.
Combine local produce and perfume culture by visiting the International Perfume Museum after the market.
Stay in the heart of the Grasse region at the Relais Impérial to easily explore the area between the sea and the Pre-Alps.
Where to find authentic flavors around Grasse
Weekly and seasonal markets
Provençal markets are the perfect place to meet producers, market gardeners, and artisans. Most are held in the morning, with offerings that vary according to the seasons (citrus fruits in winter, herbs and flowers in spring, sun-ripened fruits in summer, mushrooms and chestnuts in autumn). For 2025 dates, always check local information before traveling via the tourist office.
Tip: bring an insulated bag for cheeses and cold cuts, and some extra cash (not all stalls accept cards).
Indicative 2025 calendar of markets around Grasse
City / Location | Usual day | Indicative times | Market type | Distance from Le Relais Impérial | Source |
Grasse – Place aux Aires | Daily (depending on the season) | Morning (approx. 8am–1pm) | Provençal fruits, vegetables, flowers | ~15 min | |
Grasse – Cours Honoré Cresp (events) | Seasonal / Events | Variable | Theme (flowers, local produce) | ~15 min | |
Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey – Centre | Weekly | Morning (approx. 8am–1pm) | Producers, early produce | 0 min (on site) | |
Mouans-Sartoux – Centre | SATURDAY | Morning (approx. 8am–1pm) | Market renowned for its organic offerings | ~25 min | |
Valbonne Village – Place des Arcades | Friday | Morning (approx. 8am–1pm) | Large Provençal market | ~35 min | |
Opio / Châteauneuf | Weekly | Morning (approx. 8am–1pm) | Terroir and olive oil | ~30–35 min | Nice PDO Olive Oil |
Note: These time slots are indicative only. Please check the 2025 schedule on the official websites before your visit.
Farms, mills and honey houses to visit
Olive growing and historic mills: the Grasse region is a terroir of Nice PDO olive oil. Several mills and orchards can be visited depending on the season (December–February for the pressing; guided tours by reservation).
Honey producers and beekeepers: look for the PGI logo on jars of Provence Honey . Spring for citrus blossoms, summer for lavender and garrigue.
Farmhouse cheeses: the goat farms of the Pre-Alps offer brousse, tommettes, and faisselles. Routes and contact information are available through the Chamber of Agriculture 06.
Aromatic plants and edible flowers: verbena, thyme, rosemary, and the famous centifolia rose; producers open their doors in season and during events.
Short supply chains and baskets (AMAP, farm drive-throughs)
To receive seasonal baskets and support local agriculture, AMAPs and farm drive-throughs are a sure bet:
AMAP 06 network: weekly distribution points (vegetables, fruits, eggs, cheese).
Agricultural platforms and directories: inquire via the Alpes-Maritimes Chamber of Agriculture for collective sales outlets.
Regional natural park: the Parc des Préalpes d'Azur promotes producers committed to short supply chains and the “Taste the Park” events.
Local specialties from the Grasse region that you absolutely must try.
Nice PDO Olive Oil
Mild, fruity, and delicate, the PDO “Nice Olive Oil” is distinguished by notes of almond, apple, and raw artichoke. Opt for recent bottles and check the label (harvest/season). To understand the characteristics of the appellation, consult the PDO Nice Olive Oil guidelines; tasting on-site allows you to appreciate the differences between “green fruitiness” and “ripe fruitiness.”
PGI honeys from Provence
The PGI label guarantees origin and traceability. Depending on the bloom, you'll find lavender, chestnut, garrigue, or citrus honeys. Tip: choose translucent jars to observe the natural crystallization, a sign of raw, unheated honey. More technical information and buying advice are available from the Provence Honey Syndicate .
Goat cheeses from the Pre-Alps
Fresh faisselles in spring, mature lactic cheeses in summer, and more robust tommes in autumn: the grazing cycle dictates the flavors. Ask the producer about the aging time and pairing suggestions (olive oil, honey, garden herbs). The markets in Mouans-Sartoux and Valbonne often offer a fine selection.
Herbs, citrus fruits and edible flowers
Did you know that Grasse also uses its flowers in cooking? Candied rose petals, zucchini blossoms, and candied citrus fruits enhance the local cuisine. To connect terroir and fragrance, visit the International Perfume Museum , which explores the history of perfume plants in the Grasse region.
Gourmet routes from Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey
"Half-day local produce" idea
Morning: stroll through the market in Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey (fruits, breads, cheeses).
Nature break: short walk on the Route Napoléon to a viewpoint in the Pre-Alps.
Lunch: Return to the Relais Impérial to enjoy the terrace and cuisine showcasing local produce. Discover the hotel's services and restaurants .
“Market + Perfumes” Day
Early morning: Grasse market (Place aux Aires) to stock up on local produce.
Culture: Discover the International Perfume Museum .
Late afternoon: gourmet break in the mountains and return to your base at the Relais Impérial, ideally located between the sea and the Pre-Alps.
Logistics tip: leave early, park on the outskirts of historic centers, and allow 15–25 minutes drive from Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey depending on the municipality you are going to.
Practical advice for 2025
When to go
Spring: aromatic herbs, edible flowers, fresh cheeses, first strawberries.
Summer: heirloom tomatoes, peaches, apricots, garrigue honeys.
Autumn: mushrooms, chestnuts, early citrus fruits, mature tomme cheeses.
Winter: citrus fruits, new oils, confectionery. The markets remain active, but often with fewer stalls; check the dates with the Pays de Grasse Tourist Office .
Budget, payment, conservation
Bring some cash and a small cooler.
Opt for purchases at the end of the market if you are looking for low prices, but the choice is more limited.
For oil and honey, store away from light and heat; consume cheeses quickly or request insulated packaging.
Events to watch for in 2025
Plant and rose festivals in Grasse, themed markets in summer, "Taste the Park" events in the villages of the Prealps. Dates change every year; consult the calendar of the Prealps of the French Riviera and Côte d'Azur Regional Natural Park .
Where to stay and eat near the markets
Located in Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey on the Route Napoléon, Le Relais Impérial is an ideal base for exploring Grasse, Mouans-Sartoux, Valbonne, and the villages of the Prealps. The hotel offers 28 quiet rooms, some with terraces and views of the Grasse hills. Discover our room categories and enjoy our bistronomic cuisine and wood-fired pizzeria for a convivial break after the market. Looking for a hassle-free stay? You can book directly or contact us through our contact page . For a gourmet gathering, a birthday, or a family celebration, our adaptable event spaces can be tailored to your needs.
FAQ – Local products around Grasse
Where to buy local products on Sundays near Grasse?
On Sundays, head to the village markets that are active on weekends (depending on the season) and to farm shops. Morning markets remain the best option for vegetables, fruit, cheese, and bread. Some towns organize summer markets on Sundays featuring local producers and artisans. For information on market openings in 2025, consult the Pays de Grasse Tourist Office and the town hall websites; arrive early (before 10 a.m.) to avoid the crowds and have the best selection.
What specialties should you bring back from the Grasse region?
Three must-haves: a bottle of Nice PDO olive oil, a jar of PGI honey (lavender, garrigue, or citrus, depending on your preference), and a farm-made goat cheese. As a bonus, add dried herbs (thyme, savory), local lemons or oranges when in season, and sweet treats made with flowers (candied petals). Always check the labels (PDO/PGI), the harvest/pressing date, and ask the producer for tasting and storage tips.
Is it possible to visit olive farms and mills?
Yes, several olive growers and mills in the area offer guided tours and tastings, especially during the pressing season (generally from December to February). Details (reservations, schedules, prices) vary depending on the farm. Contact the Nice Olive Oil PDO Management Body (ODG), the Alpes-Maritimes Chamber of Agriculture (Chambre d'Agriculture 06), and tourist offices for more information. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and, during the season, bring a jacket for visiting the mills.
Where can I find AMAP baskets or “short supply chain” products around Grasse?
The AMAP 06 network lists local consumer and producer groups: you'll find weekly baskets there (vegetables, sometimes eggs, bread, cheese). Other short supply chains exist: collective sales points, farm drive-throughs, farm sales. Also consult the Regional Natural Park of the Prealps of the French Riviera and the Alpes-Maritimes Chamber of Agriculture for directories and local events.
What are the best times of year for local markets?
Spring (April–June): explosion of herbs, edible flowers and fresh cheeses; very pleasant atmosphere.
Summer (July–August): abundance and night markets in some towns; large crowds, leave early.
Autumn (September–November): late fruits, mushrooms, chestnuts; beautiful produce for seasonal cooking.
Winter (December–February): citrus fruits, new oils, honeys; quieter but high-quality markets. Always check the 2025 calendars of the tourist offices.
Key points to remember
The Grasse region is full of morning markets and producers committed to short supply chains.
Key specialties: Nice PDO olive oil, Provence PGI honeys, goat cheeses, local herbs and flowers.
Schedules vary depending on the season: check the 2025 information before you leave.
The Relais Impérial is an ideal base for exploring terroir, aromas and the Pre-Alps.
Combine market, nature walk and cultural visit for a 100% local day.
Want to enjoy the region in complete serenity? Check out the rooms and book your stay at the Relais Impérial.
