Things To Do
in La Fare-les-Oliviers

Olive paste made from local olives, capers and anchovies — commonly found at markets and as an appetizer in cafés.

Must-Try!

A savory onion tart with anchovies and olives; a regional specialty available at bakeries and casual eateries.

Slow-cooked beef stew with red wine, herbs and olives — hearty comfort food served in traditional restaurants.

Taste and buy single-varietal and blended olive oils from local mills and cooperatives.

Small village market (check the day locally) offering seasonal fruit and vegetables, olives, cheeses and local specialties — excellent for picnic supplies.

Nearby larger markets in Aix-en-Provence and Salon-de-Provence sell artisanal products, spices, pastries and charcuterie on market days.

Always say 'Bonjour' when entering shops or speaking to locals; a polite greeting sets a friendly tone.

Use formal address (Monsieur/Madame) until invited to use first names; a light kiss on the cheek (la bise) is common among acquaintances but wait to follow the lead.

Lunch and dinner times are more structured than in some countries — many businesses close midday and restaurants open for set meal times.

Respect local quiet hours, especially in residential areas and small villages during late evening and midday siesta periods.

Service is generally included in restaurant bills (service compris), but it’s common to leave small change or round up for good service; for taxis or helpful guides, 5–10% is appreciated but not mandatory.

Cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants in town, though small vendors and markets may prefer cash; contactless card payments are common, and ATMs are available in nearby larger towns.

Mild temperatures, blooming countryside and fewer crowds make spring ideal for hiking, cycling and market visits — expect occasional rain showers and vibrant wildflowers.

Hot, dry and sunny with temperatures often in the high 20s–30s°C (80s–90s°F); village life slows in August as some businesses close for holidays, while nearby coastal areas get busy.

Harvest season for olives and grapes — cooler comfortable weather, rich colors in the countryside and many local food events or tastings.

Mild winters compared with northern Europe though chilly nights are common; quieter tourism, occasional rain and the chance to visit local markets and cultural sites without crowds.

Famous limestone mountain near Aix-en-Provence with a network of trails offering panoramic views, varied difficulty levels and iconic Provençal landscapes.

Rolling hills, hilltop villages and lavender-scented paths — a bit further afield but excellent for day hikes and scenic drives.

Rocky ridges and olive-dotted valleys near Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, offering shorter loops and cultural stops.

Flat trails and shoreline paths for easy walking, birdwatching and enjoying lagoon scenery.

Many residents are local French families who work in agriculture, trades, nearby towns, or local services.

The peaceful setting attracts retirees seeking a quieter pace of life in Provence.

Some residents commute to jobs in Aix-en-Provence, Salon-de-Provence or Marseille.

A modest community of expatriates and seasonal second-home owners mixes with tourists during peak travel months.

Vegetarian options are widely available (salads, ratatouille, grilled vegetables, cheeses) but always confirm that broths and sauces contain no meat. Markets and bakeries provide fresh produce for DIY meals.

Vegan choices exist but are more limited; focus on markets, salads, vegetable dishes and request olive oil instead of butter. Larger nearby towns have more vegan-friendly cafés.

Some restaurants and bakeries can accommodate gluten-free needs; however, French pastry culture is wheat-centric, so plan ahead and ask staff about cross-contamination.

Carry allergy cards in French for nuts, shellfish, etc., and inform hosts — small family kitchens might not always list ingredients.