Bénivay-Ollon brings together valley views, historic chapels and local products. The small village sits on a hilltop and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountain passes. Opposite, the Eyguemarse Valley stretches out with its streams and rivers. Two hiking destinations reveal different landscapes: one looks out over the valley and a chapel, while the other takes in several parts of the Baronnies.

Hikes between the valley and the mountain passes

The “Les hauts de Saint-Jean” circular hike starts and ends in Bénivay-Ollon. It passes through the Eyguemarse Valley and offers panoramic views from the Saint-Jean d’Ollon Chapel. “Les quatre cols” follows historic mountain passes that were once well-used routes between villages in the Baronnies. From this route, the views extend over the Eygue-Marse Valley, the northern Baronnies, the hamlets of Beauvoisin and Mont Ventoux. If you want to focus on the valley and chapel, the circular hike offers this combination; “Les quatre cols,” by contrast, opens up views of several parts of the Baronnies.

Chapels and traces of the former Ollon

The Romanesque Saint-Jean d’Ollon Chapel was first mentioned in the 12th century as “de Aulono.” It stands on a rocky ridge above the Eyguemarse Valley, with remarkable panoramic views reaching as far as Mont Ventoux. If you walk around the chapel on its eastern side, you will reach a small hermitage. The same rocky ridge also holds remains of the medieval castrum of the former village of Ollon; these may include the remains of a castle.

Notre-Dame de Tiretempli has a different historical connection: the chapel is a remnant of a former priory, mentioned from the 12th century onward. It lies on the right bank of the Ayguemarse between Bénivay and Ollon. At Saint-Jean, the focus is on the Romanesque building, the rocky ridge and the view over the valley; Notre-Dame de Tiretempli is associated with the former priory and its riverside location. The two chapels thus offer different ways to explore the history of the area.

Olive mill, distillery and an annual tradition

The “Visite et dégustation: moulin et distillerie familiale” tour and tasting combines an immersive visit to the business with a tasting of local artisan products. In the olive mill, visitors can watch olive oil being produced and taste organic oils and olives. Learning about the production process is just as much a part of the experience as the tasting.

The family distillery makes elixirs of the Baronnies, as well as aperitifs, liqueurs and fruit brandies using a traditional still. Its artisanal know-how has been passed down from generation to generation since 1902. Together with the olive mill, the distillery is a distinctive attraction for anyone interested in local products and how they are made.

The Ban du Tilleul is a seasonal event held every year in the first half of June. During this traditional ceremony, the Chevaliers du Tilleul open the harvest sacks, marking when the flowers are ripe. If you want to plan your trip around the event, check the exact dates in advance. Swimming in the Ayguemarse is another local activity in Bénivay-Ollon. Check local water conditions before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Laborel, La Motte-Chalancon, Truinas, Le Pègue, Manthes, Suze-La-Rousse, Saint-Marcel-Lès-Sauzet, Souspierre

For the broader travel guide: Drôme.