Gouffre de l'Œil Doux, Pit cave and cenote in Fleury, France
Description
The Gouffre de l'Œil Doux is a sinkhole in Fleury with steep limestone walls framing an emerald-green pool. The water fills the natural depression to a depth of roughly 14 meters over rocky blocks.
History
The sinkhole formed through limestone dissolution by water over thousands of years. Despite numerous exploration attempts, no connecting passages to the Mediterranean have ever been discovered.
Culture
The site draws divers and nature enthusiasts who are captivated by its emerald waters and limestone setting. Local visitors come to experience this natural formation as a connection between land and water.
Practical
Access is via the road between Fleury and Saint-Pierre-la-Mer with dedicated parking nearby. Wear sturdy shoes since the ground is rocky and can be slippery, especially when wet.
Did you know?
Water salinity and level shift with rainfall and sea movements since the Mediterranean sits only about 1.5 kilometers away. This underground connection to the sea makes the site a living geological laboratory.
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