This is the tale of an ancient Water Mill which now is a holiday cottage deep in the French countryside.Here we have one of a collection of articles about the history and detailing the environs of Le Moulin Chez Lord, France 23430.
When the water mill was built the Limousin region of France was controlled by the English forces. The mill was built in about 1275 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 gentry 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 required to mill the flour to prepare bread to feed the soldiery and also to mill 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. It is now a holiday cottage in the central part of France known as the Limousin.
Now venturing towards the East there is the Massive Central which is a mountainous area now famous for skiing in the winter. Turning now towards the west a short trip takes you to Limoges very famous for its porcelain manufacture and traveling the beautiful city of La Rochelle the largest fishing center in the Bay of Biscay. This very interesting city is now also a holiday resort and an important center for tourism.
The region known as the Limousin is a new one on the tourist itinerary it was until recently a typically French holiday area however the secret is now out. It is an area of pine trees, pasture, hills and valleys with picturesque hamlets nestled in the valleys. The region contains hundreds of waterways in the many valleys which make for exceptional views. Most outdoor sports are easily available. Especially notable amongst these are the delightful walks of every degree of difficulty thus suiting all abilities and levels of enthusiasm.
The ancient mill is 700 years old, and was constructed to supply flour for English troops who were deployed here to look after the English wine interests around Bordeaux. The watermill is hidden in the valley and includes 20 acres of pasture and woodland. The mill is at the end of a long drive which ensures privacy.
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 property and encloses a tiny island with several pine trees that is perfect 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 evenings.
The granary of the mill has now been made into two double bedrooms en suite and the on the ground floor 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 on 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 region and describe the abundant attractions.
Why not Google Earth us at Le Moulin Chez Lord, 23430 France and zoom on down.
I am a retired English University Professor now living in France where I am restoring a 700 year old water mill. Visit——- Ancient Water mill — now Self Catering Holiday Cottage
The wonderful old mill is let during the summer to people who want a nice relaxing holiday. for more information visit www.moulinchezlord.com or telephone 0033555643029 or email tomandjoan@wanadoo.fr Zoom in to us on Google Earth with Le Moulin Chez Lord, 23430 France <!–
