Truly the treasures of Ali Baba's cave are here for all to see. Furniture, bric-a-brac, crockery and curiosities. Usually open every day, but closed between 12noon and 2:30pm, as is the norm with most French shops. La Caverne D'Ali Baba is less than 15 minutes from The Cherry Trees - just follow the signs. Find out more at www.alibabal.com

French morning markets vary in size from those occupying the tiny market place in La Tour Blanche to the famous Ribérac market where the stalholders take over the square, overspilling into the busy High Street.

Brantome's Friday market is a must-see. Stalls can be seen all along the river, across the bridge and spilling down in to the side streets. The variety of foods on offer has to be seen to be believed, from donkey sausages, pineapples (peeled on request), to hot tasty spring rolls.

Evening markets are sometimes held in Tocane Saint-Apre and Ribérac during July and August. Look out for signs.

Brantome Market

In Ribérac the Le Clerc offers an enormous variety of fresh produce including fresh meats, fish, shellfish, cheeses, patés, together with a large fresh bread selection. You will also find domestic items such as toiletries, charcoal and other essentials for your stay. Le Clerc does not close for lunch, it is open from Monday to Saturday until about 7pm each evening, and also has a petrol station and café. Directions are given in the information folder found at The Cherry Trees.

As you approach Chancelade (near the golf course and after the abbey) take the road towards Bordeaux and look out for the sign to Auchan. Here you will find the Auchan supermarket together with various small outlets in the shopping mall. The Auchan complex again does not close for lunch. There is a bistro, ideal for a coffee or snack. See www.auchan.fr