Words from an ambassador: fishing in Sanary-sur-Mer
A few words about the ambassador
It was aboard his ship named St Joseph that we meet Jean-Paul Mazella, a fisherman from father to son. Yes, because in the Mazella family, fishing is a family affair. For more than two generations, the children have been following in their fathers' footsteps to perpetuate the tradition and grow the family business.
Our ambassador, Jean-Paul, fell in love with fishing when he was a child. At the age of 16, he became a fisherman himself, using traditional methods and using hand-made nets.
In the past, all you had to do was stroll around the port of Bandol, Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer and, of course, Sanary-sur-Mer, to admire the spectacle unfolding before you. Fishermen, sitting on their little plastic stools, were making and unraveling their precious nets. It must be said that the success of their work, in addition to the weather conditions, depended greatly on the quality of the weaving of these nets...
Jean-Paul Mazella and his entire family continue to practice this ancestral technique, this typical Mediterranean fishing method. And this, to the delight of the local heritage, residents, and visitors who come to his stall every morning!
Focus on fishing and the fish market in Sanary-sur-Mer
Fishing is deeply rooted in our region south of Sainte-Baume. Our coastal villages developed around their ports and the trade that once sustained their economies.
In fact, as you stroll along the coastline, you will no doubt notice that most town centers form a semicircle around the sea. The main attractions take place at the port. The market is held on the quays. And one of the region's distinctive features remains the famous pointus, small colorful boats typical of the Var region.
And even though in Bandol and Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer, a few fishermen still persist in offering you ultra-fresh produce, it is in Sanary-sur-Mer that a large fish market is held from Tuesday to Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the quayside. Here, numerous stalls bearing the names of their boats offer you locally caught fish, still wriggling and in season. In season, yes. If you paid attention to the video above, you will have understood that, like fruit and vegetables, fish also has its favorite seasons!
Sea bream, white seabream, sole, capon, lobster, red mullet... Every morning, a parade of aquatic varieties unfolds before our eyes. All this in a quintessentially Provençal atmosphere, with the cries of the merchants and a cheerful mood that shines as brightly as the Var sun. A moment in life not to be missed under any circumstances!
Enjoy the local specialties in Sanary-sur-Mer!
What if we told you that fish wasn't the only gastronomic marvel in our region... What if we told you that Sanary-sur-Mer is home to a market voted the most beautiful market in France in 2018?market voted the most beautiful market in France in 2018... Here are at least two good reasons for any self-respecting foodie to book a future getaway to this magnificent seaside town!
In addition to our markets, our region between Provence and the Mediterranean is teeming with gems to be savored in every season. Colorful fruits and vegetables, passionate restaurateurs eager to share the flavors of their childhood with you, aromatic herbs with scents that go perfectly with vacations, internationally renowned wine... Honestly, what more could you ask for? Sun and sea? All of this is already provided and accessible year-round in Provence Sud Sainte Baume.
So, what are you waiting for?
Book your next vacation in Sanary-sur-Mer:
