Incredible views of the Citadelle and Art in Forcalquier

This morning I hopped in the car and headed across to Forcalquier, a short distance from us in the neighbouring Department of Alpes-De-Haute-Provence. Monday is its market day and provides the perfect excuse for a visit (if such a thing is needed?). It is a lovely drive along the northern flank of the Luberon before the views open out to the Valensole Plateau and the Southern Alps.

Continue reading here to enjoy Julie’s photos of the market produce and Forcalquier’s old town, including the Citadelle. Learn about the town’s history and art scene at Ateliers D’Art.

In 2014, a small group of artists created the Association Ateliers Forcalquier. Primarily located in the historic centre, rue Marius Debout, they decided to group their efforts, thus creating a dynamic community and giving visibility to their work. The creative arts (art, craft, music, theatre) have been integral to the Forcalquier scene for decades. Association Ateliers Forcalquier organises the festival. Its sixty-some members work in diverse mediums – clay, glass, wood, paper, paints, textiles, photography and more.

Julie Whitmarsh

Julie and her husband Andy started visiting the Vaucluse area 25 years ago & over the years have increased the amount of time they spend there with their growing family. She has a deep affection for the area, finding it is a great place to visit, where the whole family can relax and enjoy time together.

She longs for the day when she can ‘up-sticks’ from her home on Dartmoor & relocate to the Luberon and spend her days cycling, walking, visiting markets & brocante fairs and of course enjoying the local food and drink.

Her blog VaucluseDreamer gives her a space to highlight some of her favourite things about the area from places to visit to particular activities that she and her family all enjoy.

She hopes one day it will be a place where she can share the process of renovating a house in France, but at the moment that will have to wait.