Ollioules
La provençaleOllioules, a discreet beauty
At the entrance to the gorge, inland between Sanary and Toulon, Ollioules is well worth a visit. Its colorful alleyways, art workshops and fountains will imbue you with the fragrance of Provence. On its limestone hills, you’ll hike with the islands and Toulon harbor as a common thread.
Ollioules craftsmen and creators
A Provençal town just a stone’s throw from the sea, Ollioules is a dynamic village that fiercely preserves its traditions. Ollioules has been awarded the national “Ville et Métiers d’Art” label, and is home to some 30 craftspeople. In the narrow streets of the old town center, meet the designers in their workshops, then visit the “maison des métiers d’art”, which showcases their expertise.
Walks and hikes in Ollioules
The heritage walks, short circuits set up by the town, allow you to enrich your knowledge of architecture, botany and the town’s history. For more experienced walkers, Ollioules, a stage on the GR 51, is the starting point for numerous hikes. You’ll walk through the Gros Cerveau massif to meet the Rove goats, or criss-cross the Destel – a spot also known for its many climbing routes – from vats to limestone potholes.
A stroll through the heart of the city
In the village, dominated by the remains of the feudal castle, you’ll notice the many testimonies of the town’s rich heritage, from ancient settlement to medieval city to flower capital. As you stroll through its streets, you’ll come across its scented gardens, little jewels of landscape architecture, a tribute to Provencal culture. In summer, you can cool off in the shady lanes and squares of the old town center, or take a stroll along the banks of the Reppe.
The “Maison Jonquier”
Historically associated with the thirteen desserts of Provence, Jonquier nougat has been handcrafted in a copper cauldron in Ollioules since 1885. During your gourmet stop at the nougat factory, the scent of honey will make you dizzy as soon as you step through the door. Book a guided tour or a tasting workshop to discover (almost) all its secrets!
