There is no geological curiosity in Europe as unique as the « ŒIL DOUX » The impressive abyss offers walkers a most unexpected sight.
Origin
The origin of the reappearance of the water certainly goes back to the Tertiary. It was born after a fall of the top of one of the many galleries situated under the Clape massive. Countless numbers of rumours some more hare-brained than others go around about this abyss. « I’ve heard that Cousteau and his team came to explore the depth but they never found the bottom ». « It seems to be a lake of the Mediterranean Sea ». « People were drowned and their bodies never found. » The legend told by old fishermen tells that the lake is so deep that it would not let the small boat float on its surface… »
In fact, the abyss is surrounded by high chalky and green cliffs which dominate this green emerald water.
The resurgence presents a depth of about twelve meters. There is only a very small rift which flows into the Mediterranean Sea which stays unfathomable. The sea water comes through this rift and makes the water a little brackish.
THE ŒIL DOUX is a spectacular view point ; a unique frame between garrigue and sea !
Warning
: L’œil Doux is not for swimming. Nearly every year a diver pay for his carelessness with his life !
This place is not equipped to practise any sport ; divers and climbers take the highest risks.
Observe these instructions prohibiting swimming, it is for your safety !
To get there, you can park your car :
- Either on the parking area to the Domain de l’Oustalet and follow the pedestrian path towards the Bergerie
- Or on the parking area next the road between Fleury and Saint Pierre la mer