A tour of the Moulin de la Bretonnière

# The Moulin de la Bretonnière – The secrets of a watermill

**Step back in time and discover the secrets of flour-making at an authentic Norman watermill!**

In the heart of the Normandy countryside, come and discover the Moulin de la Bretonnière, a watermill whose origins are thought to date back to at least the 17th century.

Much more than just a visit, this guided tour invites you to understand how a traditional watermill worked, how it was designed and why its various mechanisms were devised in this way.

As the guide explains, you’ll learn how millers used the power of water to produce flour: from diverting part of the Formigny stream and channelling it through the mill race to the mill, to setting the millstone in motion, feeding in the wheat, grinding the grain and the various stages involved in producing flour ready for packaging.

The mechanisms and equipment still present in the mill provide a practical insight into the role of each component and the technical principles that governed its operation. Sifting and the other stages of flour separation are also explained, even though the sieves are no longer kept on site.

The tour also provides an opportunity to explore the technological developments that have transformed mills over the centuries: the technical solutions adopted, the improvements made to the mechanisms, and the ingenuity required to make the best use of water power.

**A lively, accessible and enriching experience that offers an insight into the millers’ expertise and the ingenuity of the structures of days gone by.**

### Meeting the estate’s animals

The tour continues outdoors with a chance to meet the animals living on the estate: alpacas, Shetland mini-ponies, Cameroonian sheep and other residents. An experience particularly enjoyed by families and children!

### Help us bring the mill back to life

The outer waterwheel, now out of use, is an integral part of the mill’s history and operation. Proceeds from the tours will help fund its reconstruction, with the aim of gradually restoring this iconic feature to its rightful place on the estate.

### Practical information

Duration of the guided tour of the mill: approximately 30 minutes.

Extend your visit: you can meet the estate’s animals (alpacas, Shetland mini-ponies, Cameroon sheep, etc.) and, weather permitting, help to feed them.

Format: a guided tour with commentary by the estate owner, including historical, technical and educational explanations.

Booking: essential.

Groups: private tours for organised groups or the option to join a group currently being formed.

Price: €12 per person, with a minimum charge of €48 for a private tour (equivalent to 4 participants).

Accommodation benefit: a free tour of the mill for guests staying at the Moulin de la Bretonnière with Normandie Héritage 14. A voluntary contribution may be suggested to support the project to rebuild the mill’s outer wheel, with no obligation whatsoever.

**Why not extend the experience?**

After discovering this heritage and the traditional skills of yesteryear, why not take the time to stay at the Moulin de la Bretonnière? Enjoy the estate’s peaceful setting, its animals and its authentic atmosphere for a genuine taste of Normandy.