Did you know that Lake Geneva is the final resting place of certain elves?
Not all leprechauns, be they mountain, forest, river or house elves, are immortal. Those who wish to do so choose the moment when they leave their lives. For their final journey to Lake Geneva, they let themselves glide on the waters of the rivers and streams. As a means of transport, they use dry branches, rotting trunks or uprooted trees: a "practical and playful means for the great descent from paradise".
These passengers exchange their names for "Flottins". It's hard to see the Flottins huddled together on these makeshift rafts, but if you listen carefully, you can hear murmurs, whispers and little noises in the night. They are saying goodbye to their lives and the places they have frequented for centuries. They leave their place to younger elves.
The town of Evian has been honouring this legend for over 10 years with its fabulous driftwood village, which takes place over 3 weeks in winter. Nearly 650 sculptures are installed in courtyards, secret passageways, street corners, squares and buildings. These variously shaped sculptures, made of driftwood salvaged from the shores of Lake Geneva, represent the Flottins. Associations, school classes, artists, businesses and the local community all play their part in creating this magical Christmas atmosphere.
*Information taken from the book "Légendes et histoires du Léman" by Christian Vellas.
For further information: The fabulous village