[A] Luberon- 2 June 2010

On Wednesday we took a group excursion to the Luberon, a small mountain range in Northern Provence. We began the day in Rousillon, an old (no really) ochre mining town built onto one of its red cliffs. We began, after the hour or so bus ride, by walking to the top of the village with spectacular views of the countryside around us. [Credits to Tessa for all of these pictures. I forgot my camera at the apartment.]

We stopped at a café for lunch that was above average in terms of price, but given the limited options and advertisement of "Panoramic View- 0.00", Tessa, Brian, and I gave it a shot. Worthwhile for sure. My food was great and the view was indeed astounding. We overlooked the red cliffs of Rousillon and the valley between us and the next mountain over.

As a full group we went into the old mine, le sentier des ocres, for about an hour's hike over red rocks and sand. I had fun experimenting with canyoning. I believe there are multiple vidoes of that. The old mine was of notably craggy topography, but the trails were well-tread and the hike was enjoyable even if warm. The alpine ecology against the martian geoscape was striking. I officially geeked out. On our way back we got a great view of Rousillon.

We had a spot of glaces, and Kate Brolley and I enjoyed ours on the wall overlooking the mine. It was a beautiful day, and the chocolat noir really hit the spot. I went for the waffle cone. Risky, but a good choice.

The short bus ride to Gordes was slept by most. I opted to enjoy the views. Gordes was atop another modest mountain. Evidently it had been mostly abandoned for the first half of the twentieth century, and recolonized by a group of artists and restored to its current function.

We stopped briefly for the above view, and then continued into the town. We were set free for about an hour and a half. For the first thirty minutes I explored with a group, including a venture into a medieval cathedral, then settled after Mmd. Monchal showed Emily, Jessica, Laura, and I a primo view spot. We talked about Judaism and language, naturally two of my favorite topics.

The wind really began to pick up as we were ready to board the bus home and began blowing down signs and merchandise from the magasins atop the hill. Madames Monchal and Tucker and I hid for cover behind an ancient wall of the central Chateau. The Luberon was a wonderful day trip, and I would like to return for longer someday soon.

A bientôt,
A