June 2

I left Avignon, though I really wanted to stay here and explore further, because the major weather phenomenon in the Rhone valley is called the Mistral. These strong (sometimes VERY strong) winds funnel down the valley from the north, and are a major weather determiner. Often with clear, blue skies, these winds can reach storm forces and it does make boat handling tricky. I experienced them in the fall coming down the Rhone, and decided prudence was important. I am moored at L’Ardoise, one of the only sheltered moorings from the Mistral winds along this stretch of the Rhone. I’ll wait out the winds.

castle (chateau) on the west bank just south or L’Ardoise

castle ruins on the east bank between Avignon and L’Ardoise

a dead-looking bush just floating in the air near the Palace du Papes in Avignon. At least 30 m from any buildings, it seemed to be hovering in mid air, though moving quite a bit. Actually suspended on nylon monofilament lines from the castles, the lines took me 20 minutes to spot, and figure out how it was done. A very impressive sight!