Les Halles, Narbonne

A classic shot of the famous covered market in Narbonne, previously reflected here. It definitely deserves its own blip, and conditions were good today. The town centre was amazingly empty for a Saturday morning; we parked easily and the market traders weren't exactly run off their feet. "Everyone's gone to the beach," said the lady at the wine merchant's. Not really surprising given the weather (apologies to those of you suffering torrential rain). It was too hot for me -- I had a siesta after lunch.

The market was opened in 1901, housed in a classic Baltard cast-iron pavilion, and it's been a Narbonne institution ever since. It's one of the best covered market in southern France -- as well as the usual stalls, it has an increasing number of bars serving local wine, tapas, and more substantial meals too. This video from the famous Chez Bebelle bar does a good job of conveying the wonderful atmosphere of the market. Unmissable if you are in Narbonne.