Ancient Watermill----- An Episode In The Rebuilding Of A Self Catering Holiday Cottage Deep In Rura
This is the tale of our Water Mill which now is a holiday home deep in the French
countryside.Here we have one of a series of articles telling the story of the mill and detailing the environs of Le Moulin Chez Lord, France 23430.When the water mill was built the Limousin area of France was controlled by the British troops. The mill was built in about 1278 and the regional commander of the garrison lived in a house alongside a bridge over the river Beraude. Since he was a member of the English aristocracy the area became known as Le Pont de Chez Lord meaning literally ---- The Bridge of the House of the Lord.
Le Moulin de Chez Lord (which means The Mill of the House of the Lord) was built close by the house. It was needed to mill the flour to make bread to feed the military and also to grind the oats for the horses. Do not forget that this was long before the arrival in Europe of the potato and bread was the main source of carbohydrate. The mill was still in use until the 1980s when it ground cow feed. The mill house is now a holiday cottage in the area of France known as the Limousin.
Now venturing towards the East there is the Massive Central which is a mountainous area well known for skiing in the winter. Turning now towards the west a short trip takes you to Limoges very famous for its porcelain manufacture and going further still the beautiful town of La Rochelle the largest fishing center in the Bay of Biscay. This very interesting city is now also a holiday resort and a major center for seafood.
The region known as the Limousin is a new one on the tourist scene it was until recently a typically French holiday area however the secret is now out. It is a region of pine trees, grasslands, hills and valleys with picturesque hamlets nestled in the hillsides. The neighborhood contains thousands of lakes in the many valleys which make for superb views. Most outdoor sports are readily available. Especially interesting amongst these are the wonderful walks of every degree of difficulty thus suiting all abilities and levels of enthusiasm.
The ancient watermill is 700 years old, and was constructed to supply flour for English troops who were stationed in this part of France to look after the English wine interests around Bordeaux. The watermill is nestled in the valley and includes 20 acres of pasture and woodland. The mill is at the end of a long drive which ensures tranquility.
The river Beraude and the mill stream almost surround the mill and just a few meters from the front door is a waterfall which was the overspill for the mill pool. The river runs through the farm and encloses a tiny island with several pine trees that is wonderful for relaxing on those very hot days since there always is a breeze off the river. We also often have parties and barbecues there on summer days.
The upstairs part of the mill has now been converted into two double bedrooms en suite and the mill into a living area with kitchen, lounge etc. There is a shaded patio area by the waterfall which is perfect for outside eating or for having a glass of wine in the long summer evenings.
Since we are lucky enough live in the center of a very historic region and in the most beautiful countryside, in future we will further explore the area and describe the various attractions.
Why not Google Earth us at Le Moulin Chez Lord, 23430 France and zoom on down.
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