Have you ever heard of “tree sports?” Neither had I. Now trees are where I’d love to hang out. Literally! Time to learn about tree sports in Uzès.
Tree sports in Uzès
One of my favorite places in Uzes is the Vallée de l’Eure. I’ve written about the spring that feeds Pont du Gard, the swans, the STEPS, and various other things that amuse me there.
Nothing has caught me more off guard, however, than to find men hanging in the trees.
The woods are quite thick along the winding trails in the Vallée de l’Eure. Often it is difficult to see more than a few yards ahead. It’s part of the charm of being there. This particular day, when I saw the men in the trees, I had left the apartment with the intention of taking only a short walk.
I had planned to get a lot accomplished that day and the walk was just the first of many things on my “to do” list. It was right after I got to the last of the STEPS that lead down to the park that I heard men talking in the distance. Walking slowly, as usual, because the path is very rocky and uneven, I intentionally headed towards the voices. Of course, I had no idea what they were saying. They were speaking in French. By the time I could hear them more clearly, it was obvious the sounds were coming from the trees.
There they were! Dangling on ropes up in the air. I couldn’t get there fast enough. My curiosity was killing me!
Then I realized I didn’t have my camera!
“What!” says me to myself. “What a great story for my blog: ‘Finding Tarzan in the Jungles of France.'”
Reality hit. I had an appointment in less than an hour. How could I get back to the apartment, grab my camera, run back to the park, take pictures, go back to the apartment, change clothes, then be on my way, and on time? Impossible!
At that moment It was like there was a “good angel” on my right shoulder saying: “Forget it, you’ve made a commitment. You have to forget about this story for your silly blog and get on with your life.” A “bad angel” on my left shoulder was saying: “Forget, Hell! This is a great story. Don’t be stupid.”
So what did I do? I went back for the camera, of course!
Tree sports in Uzès
Tree climbing, or hanging out in trees, is becoming a popular pastime, especially in France. The abundance of lush forests and people looking for new and different ways to spend time outdoors have created a new industry. The young men I met are utility workers for their “real jobs” and they run a business for tourists on the side. From what I could understand, since they spoke little English, and … you know me and my French … their business is quite good. They provide the ropes, harnesses and expertise to get you up into a tree. Plus they set up the tree “boats” where you can spend as much time as you’re willing to pay for to “hang” out.
Sounds like fun to me!!
Prayer of a Tree
—————-
To The Wayfarer,
Ye who pass by and would raise your hand against me, harken ere you harm me.
I am the heat of your hearth on the cold winter nights,
the friendly shade screening you from the summer sun.
My fruits are refreshing draughts,
quenching your thirst as you journey on.
I am the beam which holds your house,
the board of your table,
the bed on which you lie,
and the timbers of your boat.
I am the handle of your hoe,
the door of your homestead,
the wood of your cradle,
the shell of your coffin.
I am the bread of kindness and the flower of beauty.
Ye who pass by,
listen to my prayer; harm me not.
–reportedly from the book “Spanish Sunshine” by Elinor Elsner, circa 1925, and was a notice found on a tree in a park in Seville, Spain; posted by Ray on the Boards of the Native Tree Society
To contact the tree sport company website Phytofeel.com
Categories: Around France, Blog, Chapter 1: The First Visit, Uzès
How absolutely delightful !
Doesn’t it look like fun!?
As a compulsive tree hugger, I so, so appreciate this blog! Yes, I have had trees talk to me, and yes, they have made me cry. Sometimes from joy, other times from grief. I will print out that beautiful poem for future use for my beautiful friends! Thanks, DB!!!
I can’t wait to show you and Laura Scott the Valle d’leure! And so much more!!!
Wow! I never knew this! What a wonderful story, so glad you grabbed your camera. Loved the poem as well, kind of adds another chapter to the children’s book “The Giving Tree” by Shel Silverstein.
I still haven’t tried “hanging out” in trees, but it’s on my list. Thanks for the reminder about the “Giving Tree.” I’ll have to go back and read it again. Have a great day, Joan. Thanks for the note.
I love this in so many ways. But it’s late. And my cat and my son are vying for my attention. But just wanted to pop in and tell you how much this idea struck a cord. Thank you for choosing option B. Grin.
You know I’ll be doing this! Thanks for the encouragement! Little boys and cats do need attention. I remember well. 😃