Airole

A village that lives - since the Middle Ages. 400 inhabitants, medieval alleys, views of the Maritime Alps.

Airole is neither a museum nor a tourist resort. It is a village where 400 people live - since the Middle Ages. The alleys are narrow and winding, the stairs steep, the houses built from the gray stone of the mountains.

On the piazza people meet for espresso or aperitivo. The supermarket has everything for daily needs. The restaurants cook Ligurian, with ingredients from the region. In summer you sit outside, in winter the fireplaces burn.

The village sits on a rocky outcrop above the Roya River. In summer you can swim in the river below. In winter it is quiet. The rhythm is slow, the views far.

A Day in Airole

Morning

Espresso at the Bar

The bar opens early. An espresso at the counter, maybe a cornetto. The locals come for coffee, people greet each other.

Afternoon

Rest and Warmth

The summer heat drives you inside or to the river. In spring and autumn it's the perfect time for a hike. The light is soft, the shadows long.

Evening

Aperitivo on the Terrace

On the rooftop terrace it cools down. A glass of local wine, olives and focaccia. You can see far across the valley. Little light pollution, many stars.

The Year in Airole

Spring

Wildflowers everywhere, mild temperatures for hiking, the first terraces open.

Summer

Swimming in the river, cool evenings on the terrace, village festivals and long nights.

Autumn

Mild temperatures, fewer tourists, golden light. Ideal for hiking and excursions.

Winter

Fireplaces burn, the village becomes quiet. Perfect for reading, cooking, arriving.

What the Village Has

Airole is small but complete. Everything important is within walking distance.

2 small supermarkets (daily needs)

3 restaurants (from pizzeria to fine dining)

2 bars (one with tobacconist)

Public drinking water fountain

Train station (120 m from the apartment)

Free parking (100 m)

A Brief History

Airole was founded by the Ligurians and experienced the Roman conquest, the Middle Ages, and the changing rulers of the region. In the 16th century, the village was destroyed three times in wars and rebuilt.

The border with France was in the middle of the Roya Valley for a long time. Only in 1947, after a referendum, did the upper valley become French - Airole remained Italian. But the cultural connection across the border is still noticeable today.

The name Airole probably derives from the Latin "area" (place) - or from the Ligurian word for "eagle". The coat of arms shows an eagle on a golden background.