Galerie Saint-Thomas

Whether on holiday or just visiting a popular tourist location, shopping is always a favourite activity of mine.

But there's only so many striped t-shirts, novelty flip-flops, themed tea towels and fridge magnets a girl (or boy) can own.  

So what a delight it is to stumble across this delicious homeware, lifestyle and interiors store in Barfleur.

An even more delightful discovery is that the prices are in keeping with the provincial location despite the fact that the store would not look out of place in Paris or Berlin.

Owned and run by an impeccably dressed and approachable couple known locally as "les garçons", it's a cornucopia of covet-worthy homewares and objets, at once homely and eccentric, theatrical and down to earth.

Think slightly fey men's club cum bourgeois boudoir and you've got the look.

My favourites are the stunning ceramic and earthenware planters in all shapes, formats and colour-ways, the sumptuous Christmas tree baubles in jewel tones, and the bags, purses and cushion covers that manage to fit in seamlessly with the look and feel of the store, yet be bang on trend.

Formerly antique dealers in Chantilly, close to Paris, the couple are now firmly part of the Barfleur landscape, having been visitors to the region for more than 30 years. 

It's always a pleasure to visit and browse.  Take a tour.