by Paco Rabanne
Olympéa is a gourmand fragrance centered around a unique interplay of sweet vanilla and salt, creating a beachy, salty-sweet aroma that feels both tropical and sophisticated. It opens with a bright, citrusy burst of green mandarin and ginger flower, followed by a pronounced salty vanilla that balances the sweetness. The heart reveals velvety white floral notes—jasmine and a subtle powdery floral nuance—that add depth without overwhelming the core. As it develops, the fragrance calms into a warm, creamy base with cashmere wood, sandalwood, and a slightly resinous ambery dry down with a subtle ambergris note, lending both sensuality and elegance. The overall impression is of a sophisticated, sensory-rich scent that smells like a luxurious sea-foam and vanilla landscape, evoking an elegant Mediterranean goddess at ease on a sun-warmed beach. While most users report excellent longevity—lasting up to 12 hours on skin and persisting through clothing—the projection is moderate to strong, making it noticeable without being overwhelming. It performs notably well on warmer skin, and some users appreciate its ability to evolve beautifully with heat and sweat, turning more complex and sensual. However, because the salt note can feel prominent or even metallic to some, it may be overwhelming or off-putting for sensitive noses or those who dislike synthetic-salty accords. A few users reported heady or nauseating effects, particularly when over-sprayed or when overly intense on the skin.