Today we were lucky enough to be escorted around to three small villages in the Provence area: Isle Sur la Sorgue, Rousillion, et Gordes.
The first stop was Isle Sur la Sorgue where they were holding their weekly marketplace. Growing up in California I have seen my share of farmer's markets but this was by far this most expansive and diverse that I have ever seen. Vendors from all over come to sell their soaps, chickens, olives, fabrics, cheeses and even pruning sheers. The town is situated amongst a large river that flows all throughout the town creating a Venice of France feel. The food selection was incredible and we created a small picnic of bread (baguettes and olive foccatia), many different cheeses, herbed sausages, olives, and tangerines. Minus the 0 degree celsius weather, it was a delightful French meal.
After warming up in the bus we drove 30 min up to the mountains to the village of Rousillion. This area is know for it's cliff sides filled with amazing ochre clay/pigments. All of the houses and shops on the hill are all painted the burnt orange color of the ochre so they blend in with the surroundings. An old king killed his wife after he discovered her being unfaithful and the color of the countryside here is supposed to symbolize the blood of infidelity and sorrow. I can't quite say these feelings were evoked for me however it was unlike anything I have ever seen.
Another bus ride down the mountain and through the lavender fields found us at Gordes, a town built almost entirely of piled stones. Walking the town took probably only an hour however there were some more incredible views and picturesque hillside chateaus. You get the idea that these people's way of lives are so much more slow paced and relaxed. It really makes you want to come back and rent a house for the summer and do nothing but read books, drink wine and swim. Oh c'est la vie dans le sud de la France.
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