Guérande Market Halls

Saint-Aubin Square is one of Guérande’s must-see spots. Not only does it lead you straight to the façade of the Collégiale, which we’ll explore in just a moment, but it’s also lined with beautiful historic buildings that take you right back into the town’s past. And on your left, there’s one you’ll definitely want to notice, the building with the large bay windows and wrought-iron grilles.

This is Guérande’s covered market. It was built in the early 20th century, though a market stood here for many years before that. It’s the perfect place to sample the best flavors the town has to offer. Just note, it’s only open on Wednesday and Saturday mornings.

First on the list of must-tries is, of course, Guérande salt. You simply can’t leave the medieval town without a little bag to take home, whether plain or infused with herbs. You’ll also find plenty of fleur de sel, a finer, more delicate variety used as a finishing touch for dishes. It forms as a thin layer on the surface of the salt ponds during specific summer afternoons and is harvested by hand each evening during the season. Because of its unique conditions, it’s produced in smaller quantities than regular salt, making it rarer and often considered a luxury ingredient. A sprinkle of fleur de sel is enough to elevate any dish.

From the salt marshes also comes something far less known, samphire, a surprising plant that can be enjoyed in omelets, salads, pickled in vinegar, raw, or cooked alongside meat. Rich in minerals and fiber, it’s packed with health benefits, so it’s worth trying if you get the chance.

Being on the Atlantic coast also means plenty of fresh fish and seafood. Here, you’ll have no trouble finding oysters, mussels, sardines, and anchovies. If red meat is more your style, ask the butcher for Brière beef, a prized variety raised in the Brière Regional Natural Park, right on Guérande’s doorstep.

And to finish on a sweet note, nothing beats a bag of salted butter caramels or a few Niniches, local lollipops sold in the town’s sweet shops. With over 50 flavors to choose from, you’re sure to find one you love. If you’d like, take a moment to step inside the market and explore it for yourself!