More than an agricultural method, transhumance is a cultural tradition that reflects the pastoral heritage of the Provencal way of life.
Walking in the countryside, up the road to Saint Baume, I heard them before I saw them. They came with their bells ringing, taking over the entire route, leaving me little choice but to stand still and admire them.
Their master, a Shepherd for over thirty years, told me he was bringing his sheep down (on foot like most French herders do between Autumn/Winter and spring/Summer) from the French Alps and would stay there until June 15th. Then, when the heat of Provence became too hot to bear, he would lead his sheep back into the French Alps.
The winter sun warmed my back as the Shepard, and I watched the sheep enjoy their constant meal. Wherever I was going, it took a back seat to the moment at hand.
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