Salon-de-Provence: Reviving the Spirit of Saab in the South of France

Salon-de-Provence: A New Hub for Saab Enthusiasts in Southern France

In recent years, the town of Salon-de-Provence has emerged as a center for Saab lovers in France, creating a vibrant community of enthusiasts dedicated to the legacy of this iconic Swedish car brand. With their unique style, unmatched engineering, and non-conformist appeal, Saabs have captured a special place in automotive history — and in the hearts of those who drive them.

The Rise of Saab’oit un Café: A Community-Driven Movement

In March 2023, Alexandre Dimitrovski, a passionate Saab enthusiast from Salon-de-Provence, organized the first-ever “Saab’oit un café” meet-up at Domaine de Roquerousse. What started as a small gathering of like-minded individuals quickly grew into something much larger. By the time the second event took place in November 2023, over 40 Saab owners from across southern France had gathered to share their love for the brand.

Dimitrovski recalls the demand for a local Saab event, noting that Provence had been lacking a dedicated Saab community for years. Inspired by the loyal gatherings in northern France and Paris, he took it upon himself to bring the community spirit to the south. “There was a gap to fill,” he explains. “People were eager to connect, to share stories, tips, and find spare parts.”

Establishing Saab’oit un Café as an Official Association

By September 2024, the community had grown strong enough to form an official association, Saab’oit un Café en Provence, with Dimitrovski as its president. Now, this dedicated group of Saab lovers gathers twice a year to celebrate their cars and strengthen their network. The association has become more than just a gathering; it’s a lifeline for Saab owners in the region, offering support, resources, and a sense of belonging.

Dimitrovski himself owns several Saabs, including a classic 1994 Saab 900 NG Turbo with over 480,000 kilometers on the clock. He uses his cars daily, embodying the spirit of Saab’s reliability and individuality. “Driving a Saab isn’t just about owning a car,” he says. “It’s about being part of a community that shares the same values of non-conformity and Swedish elegance.”

Saab Culture in Provence: More Than Just a Car

For many, owning a Saab represents much more than transportation. Saab cars embody a distinct lifestyle choice rooted in Swedish luxury and craftsmanship. Dimitrovski notes that for Saab owners, there’s a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect — much like motorcyclists who give each other a nod on the road. “When you see another Saab on the road, you can’t help but exchange a wave,” he says. “It’s a sign of solidarity and pride.”

This spirit of fraternity has only grown as older Saab models have become increasingly rare, transforming them into prized collectibles. The association plans to expand its activities, organizing more outings, offering branded merchandise, and even launching an official website to keep members connected and informed.

November 24: The Next Saab’oit un Café Gathering

The upcoming meet-up on November 24 promises to be one of the most memorable gatherings yet. Set at the beautiful Château Virant in Lançon-Provence, the event will feature a static display of Saabs from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., giving visitors the chance to admire a variety of models and meet the owners.

Following the display, attendees will enjoy a wine tasting from the Château Virant’s renowned vineyards, accompanied by a selection of regional appetizers. The day will culminate in a lunch and a guided tour of the estate’s wine cellars and oil mill, where members can dive deeper into Provence’s rich culinary and cultural heritage.

Registration is open until November 17, and attendees can secure their spots by emailing saaboituncafeenprovence@gmail.com. The event is free to attend, but places are limited — a testament to the growing demand and excitement within the Saab community.

The Impact of Local Media: Amplifying Saab’s Reach

Thanks to coverage from publications like Le Régional, the Saab community has been gaining visibility across France. Each event draws new members, bringing together Saab enthusiasts who may have felt isolated or disconnected from the broader network of Saab aficionados. Local media has played a crucial role in spreading the word and highlighting the unique culture around Saab ownership in Provence, generating substantial interest and encouraging more Saab owners to participate.

The Future of Saab’oit un Café en Provence

With the support of its growing membership, Saab’oit un Café en Provence plans to expand further, incorporating more events, merchandise, and resources for members. The association is also developing a website to centralize information, announce future events, and serve as a platform for members to connect and exchange knowledge.

For Saab owners across France, and particularly those in the south, this community offers more than just a shared passion. It provides practical support, access to rare parts, and a wealth of advice on maintaining and restoring these classic cars. As Dimitrovski puts it, “Owning a Saab is a lifestyle that goes beyond the car itself. It’s about belonging to a unique community that values innovation, individuality, and the art of Swedish engineering.”

In the coming years, the association aims to strengthen these bonds, keeping Saab’s legacy alive in the hearts of its enthusiasts. The November 24 gathering will undoubtedly be a testament to the resilience and unity of this community — a moment for Saab lovers to come together, share in their passion, and celebrate a brand that defies convention.

For anyone who’s ever owned, driven, or admired a Saab, Salon-de-Provence is the place to be this November.