LE MOULIN DE COUGNAGUET
Just 35 kilometers from Camping de la Sole in Puybrun, the Moulin de Cougnaguet is a medieval heritage treasure located in Calès. Nestled in the heart of the Ouysse valley, this XIVᵉ century building offers a fascinating dive into monastic history and milling.
🏰 A mill steeped in history
This mill was built in the 14th century by monks from the Cistercian abbey of Alix, two kilometers from Rocamadour.
Construction took over fifty years. Work began in 1292, but was not completed until 1350.
On July 19, 1778, the monks sold the building to a private owner. Now privately owned, the mill was classified as a historic monument in 1925, and remained in operation until 1959.
The mill is built on the“Ouysse” river, which runs underground for only 11 kilometers before emptying into the Dordogne. The reservoir is 1.600 km long, thanks to a 6-metre-thick dam.
The entrance gate, now walled in, was a half-closed ogival door. Access was via a ford, the paving of which can still be seen in the water. In those troubled times of famine and pillage, the monks had a good means of defence.
Simply close the door and open the four sluice gates inside the mill, creating a strong current of water to drown any would-be attackers. The mill is equipped with four millstones weighing around 1.5 tonnes, enclosed in a wooden casing, which could grind up to three tonnes of grain a day.
In 2008, installation of a newly-cut grinding wheel.
A lively, authentic visit
The guided tour is led by Hubert Faure, who passionately shares the secrets of the mill. You’ll watch a milling demonstration, discover the original mechanism and the four millstones capable of producing up to 3 tons of flour a day. Models and detailed explanations make the visit accessible and captivating.
The mill sits on the banks of theOuysse, a river fed by three resurgences gushing out of the limestone cliffs. The setting is peaceful and unspoilt, ideal for a stroll or picnic. Nearby, you can also visit Rocamadour, Souillac and the Gouffre de Padirac.
Stay at Camping La Sole and discover the Moulin de Cougnaguet
When you stay at Camping La Sole in Puybrun, you’re 35 kilometers from the windmill.
The family atmosphere is relaxed, and everything has been thought of to ensure you have a great vacation in the Lot.
An activity not to be missed. Thanks to a guided tour (often led by the passionate owner), you’ll see the mill in action: the wheels, the gears, the millstones… Everything still works just as it did in the old days! It’s educational, immersive and fascinating.
