Ollioules

Discover the small town of Ollioules in the Var

Ollioules, a charming town located in the Var department, just a few minutes from Toulon, has plenty of surprises in store.

Nestled between the sea and the hills, this Provençal village boasts a rare historical heritage, a vibrant cultural scene, and a lifestyle that many envy. A medieval town just a stone’s throw from the coast, Ollioules passionately preserves its traditions. It’s not a run-of-the-mill destination for tourists in a hurry—it’s an ideal town for those who want to explore authentic Provence, far from the hustle and bustle of big cities.

A small town in an ideal location

Close to Toulon, Sanary-sur-Mer, and La Seyne-sur-Mer, the town of Ollioules is situated at the crossroads of the region’s finest attractions.

You can reach the sea in fifteen minutes, the wild gorges in ten minutes, and the medieval town center on foot. The Celto-Ligurian oppidum, the ruins of the feudal castle, Saint-Laurent Church, the Heritage House, and its listed stucco work: historical heritage is on display at every turn. And yet, Ollioules remains a town that many travelers still discover with surprise.

A town that loves the arts and crafts

The town holds the “Ville et Métiers d'Art” and “Plus Beau Détour de France” designations—two recognitions that are not obtained by chance. Art studios, the Châteauvallon-Liberté cultural district, the Olive Tree Festival in October: Ollioules’ calendar is packed all year round.

Tour of the old town.

The medieval village has retained its charm and authenticity thanks to its restored buildings, arcaded streets, and flower-filled balconies.

Renaissance facades from the 16th and 17th centuries stand alongside arcaded houses, giving the town center a unique atmosphere. The light of the Var region does the rest: at the end of the day, the pale stone buildings glow, and the neighborhood takes on a whole new dimension. The small, colorful alleys are well worth a visit. Ollioules is also a site rich in archaeological history. It seems that treasures still await researchers. Excavations are ongoing!

The Ollioules Gorges

Just a stone’s throw from downtown, the Ollioules Gorges open up to a completely different landscape. The Reppe and Destel rivers converge north of Ollioules to form these gorges, carved by water over the centuries into beautiful white limestone, creating pools, giant’s kettles, and caves.

The setting is spectacular and wild—it’s hard to imagine that you’re just a few minutes from Toulon. In the 18th century, these gorges served as a refuge for the famous bandit Gaspard de Besse. Today, it’s a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The hike through the gorges is challenging, with technical sections that sometimes require the use of chains or ropes, but the panoramic views that unfold at the summit are well worth the effort. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and avoid rainy days—the limestone rocks get slippery quickly.

A beautiful view from the summit of Gros Cerveau.

You’ll enjoy a panoramic view of the sea from the summit of Gros Cerveau (480 m), easily accessible via hiking trails. On a clear day, the view extends all the way to the Îles d’Hyères and the Toulon harbor. It’s an ideal outdoor outing, perfect to combine with a hike through the gorges or a descent toward the Destel.