Nestled in the foothills of the mountains surrounding Lac d'Annecy - arguably the most spectacular natural lake in France - the picturesque town of Annecy sits at the gateway to the Alps, providing a truly stunning setting for one of the town's most anticipated attractions: the Annecy Vieux Quartier Flea Market, also known as the Brocante d'Annecy.
Every month, between 150 and 200 professional sellers set up their stall at the Annecy flea market to sell a month's worth of finds they have collected during their travels around the region. The stalls are set up on the streets that run along the Thiou River, and wherever you go, you can get lost in the beauty.
Many of the items on sale at the Annecy flea market reflect the city's alpine setting: vintage snowshoes and skis, cheese-making equipment, antique collectors' cowbells, fishing gear, milk jugs and butter molding tools. Of course, there are also the more traditional offerings of an antiques and collectibles market, such as antique paintings, crockery, silverware, linen, pottery and antique furniture.
In addition to antiques and vintage goods, the Annecy flea market also offers a wide range of stalls selling local handicrafts. Engaging in conversation with the stallholders is always a great experience, as local artisans are often eager to share an anecdote or two about the items they sell and the skills involved in creating them.
As popular as the Annecy flea market is with collectors and antique hunters - some of whom travel from as far away as Switzerland and Italy - it attracts just as many people who are drawn to the incredibly picturesque setting of the Quartier Viarme with its winding streets and alleyways. In addition to the Annecy flea market, Annecy has many other attractions and plenty of local culture to soak up, whether it is visiting one of the many museums, heading to the Château d'Annecy, or taking a peek inside a church or two. Visitors are spoilt for choice!
Like the Brocante de Lutry and its picturesque view from the shores of Lac Leman, a trip to the Annecy flea market truly offers the most breathtaking scenery.
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