A Favorite Resource
Get all the details of our favorite monthly antique fair in the Loire region, just over two hours outside of Paris
As I’ve written on a few occasions, heading blindly into the French countryside in search of antique shops or fairs can be a risky venture. Internet searches (“brocante near me”, or “antique shops”) only tell part of the story in an industry that remains resolutely old school. While personal interaction and relationship building are almost universally prized by French antique sellers (with some story telling along the way), things we Americans have come to expect from businesses such regular hours of operation or a strong social media presence aren’t as important. Ultimately, the French way is better, as those personal relationships with dealers can be incredibly rewarding and really, they’re the key to consistently finding amazing things. It’s getting to that point that’s the real work!
Knowing the effort it takes to build a dependable shopping circuit … a chain of relationships if you will … we’re always thankful for any tip that yields a new source for antiques.
With that sentiment in mind, this article tells the story of how we found one of our favorite, no-fail, professionals-only grande deballages in the Loire region of France: An area of rolling green hills, acres of brilliant yellow rapeseed or sunflowers (depending on the time of year), and miles of Plane Tree lined highways. It’s an article I’m particularly happy to write and share, as within it you’ll learn not only how to get there and what to expect, but how to apply for and receive a Carte d’Accés (needed to enter) before you go, and even our recommendation for a nearby budget hotel with a great breakfast!