Water, water, everywhere . . .

Like the rest of Europe we have had an exceptionally mild and rainy winter.  Any brief ray of sunshine sees us out exploring this unnaturally watery landscape.  The streams and rivers, usually parched even at this time of year, have abundant water running through their courses.

This stream below Gordes is the remnant of a much larger river that flowed through the lower slopes of the village powering a flour mill and an olive mill.  In the earthquake of 1887 it changed its course to become largely subterranean.  This had dire consequences as they were no longer able to harness the water for the shoe manufacturing business which was an important source of income for the village.  

 

The Calavon, the river that flows under the Pont Julian, has today breached its banks in the famous 'submersible' car park in Apt leaving many cars marooned in a swirl of mud.  Our walk along its banks led us to this watery dead end, forcing us to hastily retrace our steps.