Ardèche Wild Blueberry Market

The wild blueberry festival in the heart of the Monts d'Ardèche

Every first Saturday of August, the village of Mézilhac, perched at over 1,100 meters above sea level in the heart of the Parc naturel régional des Monts d'Ardèche, hosts the Marché de la Myrtille Sauvage d'Ardèche. Organized for over twenty years by the Association La Myrtille Sauvage d'Ardèche in partnership with the Parc des Monts d'Ardèche, this festive and gourmet event pays homage to this small emblematic fruit of the Ardèche mountains.

A market of producers and artisans

From 10 am to 6 pm, the market brings together local producers and artisans offering a wide range of wild blueberry specialties: jams, jellies, juices, drinks, pastries, terrines, dairy products, ice creams, and sorbets. It's an opportunity to discover the richness of the Ardèche terroir and meet the producers who perpetuate the tradition of wild blueberry picking on the slopes of the Monts d'Ardèche.

Hiking and picking initiation

The day begins at 8:30 am with a nature hike starting from the Mézilhac church (12 km, 250 m elevation gain, free upon recommended registration). Wild blueberry picking initiation sessions are offered every 30 minutes from 9:30 am to 1:00 pm, with on-site registration. These workshops allow participants to discover environmentally friendly picking techniques and taste freshly harvested fruits.

Gastronomy and conviviality

A meal on-site is offered in Mézilhac, with a menu created by the Hôtel des Cévennes featuring blueberries (17 €, reservation on-site). Culinary innovations and blueberry tastings are offered throughout the day, notably by local chefs who reinterpret the blueberry in original creations. Activities, games for children, and a warm atmosphere make this day an unmissable convivial event of the Ardèche summer.