Visit to the Barda woodturning workshop in Aiguines

by WebMaster | Apr 11, 2026

Activity of woodturners of Aiguines

The woodturners of Aiguines perpetuate a centuries-old craft, inherited from past generations, to fashion unique pieces of incomparable beauty. In this picturesque village, perched between sky and earth, artisans deftly handle local wood, capturing the very essence of the surrounding nature in each creation. Let us plunge together into the enchanting world of woodturning in Aiguines, where past and present combine harmoniously to give birth to timeless works.

Discover the complete history and craftsmanship of woodturners of Aiguines, a unique craft in the world perpetuated for centuries in this village perched above Lake Sainte-Croix.

The Barda workshop is located Barda Square, in the heart of Aiguines village (83630), 5 minutes on foot from the castle. Open year-round, including off-season. Free entry — count 20 to 30 minutes for the shop visit + workshop.

In the lair of Olivier Houset

To further introduce Aiguines and its engaging village life to you, let's head to the Barda workshop, one of 4 woodturning workshops still active year-round.

This workshop is a true favorite, and the personality of Olivier that we have come to know through many visits to find a little extra to complete the decoration of our villa.

Barda workshop exterior

Workshop - Shop Side

The shop is clearly visible from the village central square, Barda Square, slightly elevated from the Fountain Square. The shop is upstairs and has the particularity of allowing admiration of a panoramic and overlooking view of its workshop on the ground floor through its bay windows.

It offers a wide range of Olivier's creations, both in the form of utilitarian objects and especially decorative items for the home.

Barda shop display
Woodturning creations
Decorative wood objects

Workshop - Manufacturing Side

Installed on the ground floor, the workshop is the beating heart of the shop, where Olivier brings his remarkable collection of wood articles to life. This arrangement allows the shop to remain open almost all year-round, giving visitors the opportunity to discover his handcrafted creations whenever they visit. During off-season, feel free to drop by unannounced and let yourself be surprised by Olivier's warm presence, who willingly leaves his work station to welcome you and present his work with passion, at any time of day.

Olivier at the wood lathe

Discover the raw beauty of raw materials and the atmosphere of creativity that reigns in this creative space. Each photograph invites you on a journey to the heart of the woodturning craft, where tradition and innovation meet to give birth to unique and timeless pieces.

Workshop tools
Wood shavings
Finished wood pieces
Workshop detail
Wood selection
Lathe work in progress

Another important corner of the Barda workshop: Raw wood stock

Adjacent to the workshop, storage of raw material. A good amount stored in an open-air location for the wood to breathe.

Raw wood stock outdoor
Wood logs storage
Raw material preparation
Wood drying area
Villa OVerdon • Aiguines
Charming stay between Lake Sainte-Croix and Verdon Gorges

Charming house (6 pers., 3 bedrooms, ground floor, 110m² with spacious living area) with panoramic view of Lake Sainte-Croix. Quiet, 2 min walk from the village centre. Preserved nature & ideal base for outdoor activities and tourism.

  • Ideal for families and groups of friends
  • Private garden & terraces
  • Tourism accommodation ★★★
Vue panoramique depuis la Villa OVerdon sur le lac Sainte-Croix au coucher du soleil
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Lake Sainte-Croix seen from Villa OVerdon terrace
Charming stay with panoramic view Lake St Croix & Verdon Gorges
Charming house (6 pers., 3 bedrooms, ground floor, 110m2 with spacious living/kitchen area)
Charming stay
Lake St Croix
★★★
★★★ Garden & terraces 2 min village Families • Couples • Friends