Olive Oil and Local History

Olive oil is still produced in the centre of Opio. At the same time, the commune lies between the sea and the mountains, amid the wooded landscapes of the central hinterland. Its olive oil tradition, Romanesque heritage and walking routes through contrasting landscapes give the area a clear identity for a stay.

The Moulin d’Opio dates back to the 15th century and is one of the oldest olive mills in Provence. Olive oil is still produced there in the centre of the village, and olives from Opio are also processed there. The mill is also associated with a succession of seven generations dating back to the mid-18th century. These dates refer to different aspects: the 15th century marks the mill’s origins, while the mid-18th century marks the beginning of the succession of generations. Together with its continued production, this links Opio’s historical roots with olive processing today.

Visits and olive oil tastings are offered at the Domaine de La Giraudière; check the dates in advance.

Church and Rose Tradition

The Romanesque Church of Saint-Trophime houses medieval baptismal fonts and a 17th-century altarpiece. Romanesque architecture, medieval furnishings and a work of art from a later period thus sit side by side in one church. Another cultural feature is the annual Fête de la Rose, which has celebrated the Provençal rose tradition for more than 20 years. If you would like to include the festival in your trip, check the specific event dates in advance.

Walks and Leisure Activities

The “La boucle du Parc de Loisirs” walk begins at the car park of the Parc de Loisirs d’Opio and passes through the Bois d’Opio. Olive groves line the route, which also offers open views of the surrounding hills and mountains. By contrast, the “Balade du Siaresq” passes through an oak forest, between dry-stone walls and over a small bridge. If choosing based on the landscape, you can opt for the Boucle for its olive groves and open views, while the Siaresq is characterised by woodland, walls and a bridge. The Boucle is classified as an easy walk.

The Parc de Loisirs d’Opio has a fitness trail, a multi-sport court, play areas and an amphitheatre. The easy Boucle starts at the park car park and passes through the Bois d’Opio. This links the park and the walk through a specific starting point; the facilities listed are also a leisure offering in their own right.

Golf on Hilly Terrain

Golf d’Opio Valbonne is an 18-hole golf course set within a 220-hectare protected area. The terrain is hilly and shaded by centuries-old trees; it is also home to a Gallo-Roman aqueduct. The course thus combines its sporting facilities with distinctive landscape and historical features. For golf enthusiasts, this is a focus in its own right, alongside the olive oil tradition, church and walking trails.

Discover more destinations: Contes, Tournefort, Le Mas, La Roquette-Sur-Siagne, Roquesteron, Saint-Dalmas-Le-Selvage, Peillon, Saint-Jeannet.

For the broader travel guide: Alpes-Maritimes.