Historic heart of Ollioules
A history stretching back thousands of yearsOllioules through the centuries
Ollioules, inhabited since Neolithic times, bears witness to its rich past. From this time onwards, olive trees were grown here, becoming the town’s emblem and giving it its name. Ollioules has preserved several buildings from the Middle Ages: the feudal castle, the Saint-Laurent church and a large medieval core in the old town. Much of today’s town dates back to the 16th and 17th centuries: admire the Renaissance facades and the Maison du Patrimoine. If you’re a history and heritage buff, take part in the guided tours of the town organized by the Tourist Office to learn more about Ollioules.
5 good reasons to visit the historic heart of Ollioules
- Admire the view of the Ollioules gorges from the château
- Stroll through the narrow Provencal streets under porches and arcaded houses
- Visit museums linked to the history of Ollioules
- Enjoy the freshness of squares and fountains
- Travel back in time on a guided tour
Vestiges of a feudal past
Overlooking the village and the strategic Ollioules Gorge, the château was occupied from the 11th century until 1520. Its stones having been used to rebuild the village, closer to the Reppe river and farmland, today you can only visit its remains. Along with the Saint-Laurent church, the château bears witness to the medieval period. The bucolic Ventimiglia garden, located on the climb up to the château, is decorated with aromatic and medicinal plants and flowers. It’s a great way to extend your walk while discovering the local flora.
A stroll through the streets
In the old town center, you’ll travel back through the centuries along narrow streets dotted with art workshops, porches and welcoming squares. Maison du Patrimoine, Convent des Observantins, Musée de la Fleur… From the Renaissance to the 21st century, take a stroll and admire the richness of the local heritage, between tradition and modernity.
Guided tours of Ollioules
Guided tours organized by the Tourist Office cover all aspects of Ollioulais culture and heritage. Depending on what you’re looking for, take a stroll along the Canal des Arrosants, meet the craftsmen and their exceptional skills, or improve your knowledge of the historic heart of the village with a tour revealing the secrets of Jonquier nougat making.
Our advice
Brochures on the various heritage circuits are available, and signage has been set up around town. Don’t hesitate to pick up your documents at the Tourist Office.
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Ollioules town center is easily accessible by bus on the Mistral network: line 12 from La Seyne center, line 11B from Toulon or line 120 from Ollioules train station – “Mairie” stop – will take you to the heart of town.
By car from Toulon or Hyères, take exit 14 to Ollioules town center and park in one of the nearby parking lots: parking Jean Jaurès, parking Lemoyne (blue zone) or parking Orlandi 1 or 2 at the entrance to the town.
Free shuttles from the Orlandi 2 parking lot take you downtown on Thursday and Saturday mornings, market days.