This is the tale of historic Water Mill which now is a holiday cottage hidden in the French countryside.
Here we have one of a series of articles telling the story of the mill and describing 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 1277 and the local commander of the garrison lived in a house alongside a bridge over the river Beraude. Perhaps because he was a member of the English aristocracy the locality 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 by the House of the Lord) was built close by the house. It was needed to make the flour to make bread to feed the military and also to prepare 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 milled cow feed. It is now a holiday cottage in the central part of France known as the Limousin.
Now going 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 going further still 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 itinerary it was until recently a typically French holiday region however the secret is now out. It is a region of pine trees, grasslands, hills and valleys with picturesque hamlets nestled in the valleys. The region contains thousands of rivers in the many valleys which make for superb. Most outdoor activities are easily available. Especially important amongst these are the delightful 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 deployed here to look after the British wine interests around Bordeaux. The mill is hidden in the valley and includes 20 acres of pasture and woodland. It 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 little island with several trees that is perfect for relaxing on those very hot days as it always has a breeze coming off the river. We also frequently have parties and barbeques there on summer days.
The granary 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 dining 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 region and describe the various attractions
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