Before becoming a beloved tourist destination, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue was a bustling industrial town, powered by the many branches of the Sorgue.

Originally a peaceful fishing village, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue harnessed hydraulic energy as early as the Middle Ages, with mills installed along its waterways. The Industrial Revolution in the 19th century saw a proliferation of water wheels driving energy-hungry factories: silk mills, dyeworks, paper mills. At its peak, the river powered up to seventy wheels — all without releasing a single gram of carbon into the atmosphere!

The industrial activity of this small town declined in the 20th century, but the memory of that era remains deeply rooted among its inhabitants. Today, fourteen water wheels have survived, now purely decorative. They offer a mesmerizing scene: their moss-covered paddles slowly rise, glistening, while the clear waters of the Sorgue shimmer under the sun.

Industry has made way for tourism and antique markets. Along the canals, life flows at a gentle pace — one can stroll to the murmur of the river, or admire the water wheels from the terrace of a café. The town comes alive with its famous Sunday market, one of the most vibrant in France. And during the Easter and Assumption fairs, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue becomes a beacon for antique lovers from around the world.

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A walk through L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is like drifting along a dreamscape — where the river murmurs, the mossy wheels turn, and the faded echoes of industry invite gentle contemplation in true Provençal spirit.