Buoux Cliffs

Buoux is a deserted village on a high spur overlooking the deep valley of the Aiguebrunne in the Luberon Mountains. It is the ultimate defensive site; one entry and precipices on each side. A bit like a ship in profile.It has been populated since Neolithic times. It shows how the priority was defence in those days and later.

Around it are cliffs such as these. Massive limestones coloured in places as this is by intermittent water flow. The trees give a sense of scale.

We watched some climbers attempting to ascend what looked vertical and sheer without cracks for handholds. I've known a lot of climbers, some of whom have encouraged me to have a go as I've long levers and not a lot of bulk (not quite true now). But I've never had the nerve. I love the mountains but there are other ways!