For this new episode of the “we tested it for you” series, we had the chance to enjoy a truly gourmet experience: a visit to an old olive oil mill. So, get ready, because we are going to tell you everything in great detail. Let’s head towards the Moulin du Partégal!
The Moulin du Partégal: Toulon know-how
First, let's talk about the location. After approximately 35 minutes by car and after leaving the congested Toulon highway in the early morning (also what an idea to get up so early!), we arrived in the charming village of Farlède. The Old Oil Mill of Partégal is easy to find: it is located right next to the municipal olive grove. Coincidence? I do not believe !
So although the mill team does not use these protected trees located a few meters away, it is a safe bet that this fruit-producing environment made the owners want to settle here. Thus, it is between the Coudon hill and a century-old orchard that is located The Old Oil Mill of Partégal. An institution in the Toulon hinterland, created in the 16th century.
Here, everything is in its own juice (no pun intended). The Roman ruins are intact, the stone press is still in use, the building itself is magnificent, like a Provencal farmhouse. And it is in this almost historic place that we were welcomed for a superb visit.
historical visit to an oil mill
The discovery started outside the mill, with an explanation of its history. A family farm, passed down from generation to generation and which, over the years, has built a solid reputation on the finest restaurants in France. After surveying the remains of an aqueduct and learning more about the place, we headed towards the old press.
This monster of stone and wood, still active today, thanks to the support of the inhabitants of the region, is simply spectacular. Pressing olives, deciphering oil colors, advice on choosing the right product in store, all subjects were covered. Enough to leave with solid foundations in terms of olive growing. Spoiler alert : some national brands all share the same foreign supplier…
🌳 At the Moulin du Partégal, everything is designed for ecology and anti-waste. Vegetation water and skins from olive pressing are used as fertilizer for their olive trees. As for the cores, after being heated and then crushed, they serve as fuel to heat the workshop. An important virtuous circle!
tasting of Var olive oils
After theory, it's time for practice, well, actually, for indulgence. It is a blind tasting that the team offered us with a presentation of their entire range. Virgin oils, others flavored, some award-winning, without forgetting creative vinegars and other products, each just as delicious as the next. It's quite simple, with each spoonful eaten, an item was added to our shopping list.
Yes, because the mill, in addition to being an educational place, is also and above all a shop. And what a store… To give you an idea, I myself left with a large bottle of olive oil, an average of a medal-winning vintage, an average flavored with basil (killer!), a huge pot of pistou, and three or four mignonettes from different vintages. And there are only two of us at home. To tell you how high the tastes and quality of these oils are.
🔥 If you have the chance to go there, don’t miss their “ oil flower ". An exceptional dish skimmed by hand by the owners of the mill and which is worth all the best oils you can know.
visit to the partégal mill: our advice
After all this visit, we can only advise you one thing, to go to the Vieux Moulin à Huile du Partégal during your next vacation with us. And to make the experience easier, here are some tips:
- Address: Moulin à Huile du Partégal – 159 chemin des Laures, 83210 La Farlède.
- Contact : +04 (94)48 48 85 XNUMX XNUMX.
- Dates of visits: all year round! In summer, outings are planned every 30 minutes. The rest of the year, you will need to contact them in advance to find out the schedules. In any case, summer and winter, reservations are strongly recommended !
- Language of visits: French and English (by reservation).
- Parking: a 116-space car park awaits you right in front of the mill.
- Tourism & Disability: the entire workshop (interior and exterior) is equipped to accommodate people with reduced mobility.
If you are looking fora fun, human and gourmet activity, immediately get into your car and head towards this beautiful mill in Partégal. A Provençal experience to live at least once and from which you will leave with your arms full of good things. So don't wait:
PS : a big thank you to the entire mill team who welcomed us with open arms and thanks to whom we can advise you even better at our reception at the Bandol tourist office!
