When does the source overflow at Fontaine- de-Vaucluse?

You must bear in mind that the water level constantly varies from year to year. No two years are alike! The source could just as easily bubble over for several months or only for a few days.

And you also need to be aware that the discharge happens as a result of snowmelt or after very heavy rainfall.

Generally, the best time to come and see the source in flood is in March. According to one study, the monthly flow rate for March is 23.50 m³/s (data calculated over 56 years).

The graph below shows that the most likely months for the source to discharge are January, February, March, April and May.
Source: hydro.eaufrance.fr.

A few figures:

• Maximum instantaneous flow rate: 81.40 m³/s on 12 February 2003 at 6 pm.
• Maximum vertical displacement: 2,370 cm on 12 February 2003 at 6 pm.
• Maximum daily flow rate: 85.00 m³/s on 11 January 1994.

However, even if you visit the village of Fontaine-de-Vaucluse when the source level is low, usually from June to October, your walk will be just as beautiful!

In fact, to see the source in all of its splendour, you need to visit in every season of the year.