Things To Do
in Ollioules
Ollioules is a small Provençal town perched on rolling hills above the Toulon coastline. Its narrow stone streets, olive groves, and fragrant herbal scents evoke classic southern France. The town serves as a calm base for exploring nearby beaches, vineyards, and the forested slopes of Mont Caume.
Visitors come for a relaxed pace, local markets, and easy access to the coast and regional countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Ollioules and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around the charming streets adorned with traditional Provençal architecture. Stop by a local café for a breakfast of fresh pastries and coffee while soaking up the local ambiance.
Visit the Église Saint Laurent, a beautiful church rooted in history, to admire its stunning architecture. Afterwards, enjoy lunch at a nearby bistro featuring local cuisine made from fresh ingredients. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the vibrant artisan shops and galleries located in the quaint town center.
Dine at an al fresco restaurant where you can savor regional specialties paired with a delightful wine from the Provence region. As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk through the town, observing the soft glow of evening lights reflecting off the stone buildings. Conclude your night with a visit to a local bar for music and socializing with the residents.
Set off early for a hiking excursion in the nearby Montagne de la Sainte-Baume. Enjoy the fresh mountain air as you take in scenic views and the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Don't forget to pack a picnic to enjoy at a scenic overlook during the hike.
Continue your exploration of the mountain trails, eventually visiting the historic cave where Mary Magdalene is said to have lived. Afterward, treat yourself to lunch at a charming mountain refuge, sampling local dishes crafted from regional ingredients. Take some time to relax and appreciate the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you.
Return to Ollioules and unwind after a day of adventure with a casual dinner at a traditional restaurant. Engage in conversation and share stories with fellow travelers about the day's experiences. Finish the evening by sipping a digestif on a terrace as you watch the stars twinkle above.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-5 |
| 🚌One-way public transit | $1-3 |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range, per night) | $100-180 |
| 🎟Movie ticket | $10-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, scenic Provençal setting with easy access to beaches and mountains
- Excellent markets, food, and wine in a small-town atmosphere
- Good base for exploring Toulon, Cap Sicié, and the Var region
- Limited nightlife and some services concentrated in larger nearby towns
- Hilly terrain can require cautious walking and parking challenges in the old town
- Public transport within the town is limited; a car helps for Mont Caume and coastal trips
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Bonsoir" - Good evening
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est...?" - Where is...?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
- "Je voudrais..." - I would like...
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please
- "Pouvez-vous recommander un restaurant?" - Can you recommend a restaurant?
- "Où sont les toilettes?" - Where are the toilets?
- "C'était délicieux" - It was delicious
Places to Visit in Ollioules
Visit one of these nice places.
Elevated overlook with sweeping views over the Var countryside to the Mediterranean; ideal for sunset photos and wide landscapes.
Quaint stone streets and a central square with a classic Provençal fountain—great for candid street photography and architecture shots.
Historic church façade and a quiet square; capturing the play of light on old stone is rewarding in the morning.
Dramatic sea cliffs and blue water views; best in the softer morning light or late afternoon.
Food in Ollioules
Ollioules Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Provençal olive paste spread, typically enjoyed with crusty bread or as part of a plate.
Must-Try!
Garlic mayonnaise served with boiled cod or seasonal vegetables, a Provençal specialty.
A vegetable medley stewed with peppers, zucchini, tomatoes, and lots of herbs.
Creamy salt cod purée with olive oil and potatoes, a comforting Provençal favorite.
A seafood stew common in nearby coastal towns; best enjoyed with rouille and croutons.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, olives, seafood, and local specialties; great for tasting Provençal flavors.
Occasional stalls near the coast or market areas selling seasonal catches and prepared seafood bites.
Local producers often offer tastings—perfect for taking home a bottle of regional olive oil.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always say 'Bonjour' (and 'Bonsoir' in the evening) when entering shops or greeting people. Use 'S'il vous plaît' and 'Merci' in interactions.
Dress modestly and speak softly inside religious sites; photography may be restricted in some areas.
The pace is relaxed; avoid loud conversations late at night in residential streets.
Safety
Tipping in Ollioules
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, a service charge is often included; if not, a tip of 5-10% is customary for good service in restaurants. For cafés and bars, rounding up or small tips are appreciated.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and sunny, with dry conditions. Expect crowded beaches nearby and lively evening markets. Hydration and sun protection are essential; evenings are cooler and ideal for outdoor dining.
Mild days with occasional rain; harvest season in vineyards brings deeper colors and seasonal menus. Great for hiking and market visits without peak crowds.
Milder than many parts of France, with cooler evenings. Some services may reduce hours, but the town remains peaceful and atmospheric for strolls.
Blooms and longer days; perfect for outdoor activities, markets, and photography with soft light and vibrant colors.
Ollioules at Night
Hiking in Ollioules
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Classic hike to a summit overlook with sweeping views of the Var valley and the sea beyond.
Coastal trails along the Cap Sicié headland offering dramatic sea views and cliff scenery.
Gentle forested trails interlaced with olive groves and stone lanes suitable for easy to moderate hikes.
Airports
How to reach Ollioules by plane.
Small regional airport near Hyères; convenient for connections to French cities and some international destinations; linked to Toulon by road and rail options.
Major international gateway (MRS) about 1.5 hours by car or train; strong connecting options for broader travel.
Large international hub (NCE) about 2.5-3 hours by road/train; good for broader European connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families attracted by the calm, scenic setting and proximity to schools and markets.
A number of long-term residents and seasonal visitors appreciate the mild climate and relaxed pace.
Some residents commute to Toulon or other coastal towns for work, taking advantage of regional transport links.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very popular in the region with local clubs and enthusiastic fan culture.
Proximity to the coast makes sailing, kayaking, and swimming common activities.
A region with strong rugby traditions and local matches nearby.
A staple pastime in town squares and parks during warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ollioules.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Provençal cuisine centers on vegetables, legumes, and rice or bread-based dishes; order ratatouille, aioli-topped salads, grilled vegetables, and olive-oil–drizzled plates; ask for cheese or egg additions if needed.