Croupatier Cave from Ollioules

Park in the large tarmac car park at the top of the Châteauvallon road in Ollioules.

(S/E) Turn left onto the small tarmac road which climbs steeply up to the water reservoirs.

(1) Take the lovely track on the right, heading north, which leads to the Détras ruins and its cistern.

(2) Climb towards the ridge along the wide track as it winds its way up, until you reach a crossroads of tracks where there is also a cistern.

(3) Turn left onto the track on the left and continue the climb to reach the pass. Here you’ll cross the^GR®51.

(4) Turn left onto the GR®51 and follow it, passing a ruin and continuing for a few metres until you reach a cairn.

(5) Turn left to reach the edge of the cliff. Take the steep path downwards. At the bottom of this short, steep section, keep to the right, as close to the cliff as possible, until you reach the Croupatier cave.

(6) Retrace your steps along the route you took on the way there to return to the Détras crossroads.

(2) Turn left onto the wide track at the bottom of the valley to return easily to the Chemin de Château Vallon car park (S/E).

Sturdy footwear and walking poles are recommended.
There is no water along the way.

(1) A rest area by the ponds: enjoy a beautiful view of the sea.

Between (2) and (4), the route offers some stunning views of Toulon and its surroundings, Saint-Mandrier and the harbour.

Interesting note: Walking down this path on a full moon night, without a head torch, is a safe experience and a real treat for the eyes.