How to convince a Bordeaux resident that the Middle Garonne is much more beautiful, wild and mysterious than the maritime Garonne in Bordeaux?
Give them an immersive experience among the “ Fools of Garonne » in Couthures-sur-Garonne!
However, having lived in Marmande for several years, my companion had never yet had the opportunity to visit our flagship site dedicated to the Garonne “Fous de Garonne”…
Warmly welcomed by Mélody we begin with the discovery of the giant video mapping the 1st room!
This show immerses us in a dreamlike atmosphere where we meet two endearing characters: Léa and her grandfather !
It relates “Aigat” well known to the Couthurains, it is the Occitan name which designates the flood but not just any flood! The one who, as in 1930, rises very high (10,05m) The latest one is that of 2021 (9,55m)
We learn how the Couthurains organize themselves around this event to be supplied with water and food… The inhabitants of Couthures live with the river and not near the river!
We also travel there to meet the water people : Africa, South America…
We also laugh there with talking fish and unusual creatures present in the Garonne!
SO ? What did you remember from this first space?
“Garonne, you have to love her as much as you have to fear her! I loved ! Very nice ! To do again with my nephews, with the children it could be very interesting.
Immediate boarding in space n°2 on one of the Couthures rescue boats!
We take our place in a boat equipped with our virtual reality headsets…The most immersive of the site !
Clinging to the boat we move on Garonne in flood accompanied by the Mayor of Couthures-sur-Garonne, Mr. Moreau, which presents us the history of the village, its agricultural riches, its twice-destroyed church... A lover of Couthures!
We sail on the Garonne at 8,80 m high ! Which represents a very nice flood. The one from 2019! We go to isolated residents and bring them water, bread... The Couthurains are used to it and always have reserves of canned goods... just in case...
We discover Alice's house where the furniture, using pulleys, is raised, out of the water.
We can feel the power of water and observe nature at 360° a wonderful still escape!
This show also allows us to understand the philosophy of the villagers: Always be vigilant!
How are you feeling ? Sea sickness ?
Virtual reality is amazing! We believe it! Good feelings! It really allows you to realize the power of the river and the consequences of the floods for the inhabitants and the surrounding nature.
Gourmet break!
I feel my friend is very attentive and interested 😊 we take a 10 minute break on the shaded terrace of the site to refresh ourselves and enjoy a good homemade ice cream from Uncle Dads !!
3rd meeting in the afternoon… We enter the dark room “Nature 3D”
Equipped with our glasses we literally dive into Garonne!
It is a rather pessimistic observation that we are told, supported by 3D images, that the fauna and flora of Garonne have been deteriorating for years! The observation of new species, which come to chase away endemic species… the same goes for the flora! The mishandled ecosystem, disrupted by man!
But this film is also about hope! In view of the numerous actions carried out to safeguard the aquatic environment…
This film raises awareness of the fragility of nature. It is urgent to take action !
SO ? What do you think about that ?
Let's take up the challenge! This documentary explains to us how closely we are linked to Dame Garonne! As the voice-over of the film testifies: “When we hurt Garonne, we hurt all of us!” »
Fully pumped we enter the fourth and final room of the site: The interpretive model of a flood!
Here, it's a clod of earth and a telephone pole that speak for us tell about Garonne and its floods! Through a film and an animated model we see before our eyes the flood is forming !
SO ? Verdict?
Well thought out this little model!
Come on, to finish convincing him of the incontestable beauty of the Garonne in Val de Garonne… Head to the beach where, Dominique, the captain of Garonne boats welcomes us for a one-hour guided river trip on the river! We were able to observe the flight of birds (egrets and herons) and contemplate this wild nature ! Dominique tells us about the history of the village, the rope factory and of course Garonne, its floods, its whims, its secrets…
Ok you win! Here in Val de Garonne, the Garonne is much more beautiful, wild and mysterious than elsewhere! Furthermore, the attachment of its inhabitants to it is undeniable! We feel that here the Garonne is part of you, it fascinates you! It is at the heart of your memories, your culture and your emotions.
All the information on the visit to Fous de Garonne and the boat trip:
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