Provence Continued

Port du Niel with a fort on the point.

We got on a ferry that took us to Porquerolles Island.  There we had a delicious lunch, a walk around part of the island, ice cream, and then came thunder, lightning, torrential rain and a boat ride back to the mainland in the storm.  But Neil and Louise weren't done.

Porquerolles Island with ruins of a fort

An old windmill on the island

Pigeon Lady on Porquerolles Island

Next was Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is known for its nine mossy waterwheels which are now only for decoration and a reminder of the towns history of it's wool and silk industries.

Mossy windmill

Another windmill

 We visited Gordes.  Then we went to Roussillon which was Europe's capital for Ochre production until WWII.  The buildings are covered with the ochre which creates a uniquely beautifully colorful town.  While there we went in a chateau with an exhibit of the photographer REZA.  I don't believe I have ever been so moved by any photographic collection as I was by REZA.  He is worth looking up.

Roussillon

Another view of Roussillon

It was finally time to end our visit to Provence by going to Avignon with its medieval bridge, imposing Palace of the Popes and dominating walls.

Original city wall

Medieval bridge

Bridge lit up 

Palace of the Popes which is the largest surviving Gothic palace in Europe.

Popes Palace lit up

One more fort to visit before returning to Rabelo.

Next we have Neil and Louise on Rabelo and we wonder…when bad things happen, do they always happen in three's?