As the water flowsand with the wind

Mills to visit near Figeac

Perched on the hills or nestling by the water, wind or water, the mills of Grand-Figeac invite you to take a trip back in time. A testament to ancestral farming skills, these mills transformed crops into everyday products: cereal flour (wheat, maize, rye, buckwheat), walnut oil or apple cider. Some are still open for business. From the Seyrignac mill to the Vitrac mill, discover these places steeped in history, where skills and traditions are still passed down from generation to generation.

The windmill

de Seyrignac

Perched on the heights of Figeac, with a superb view of the Monts d’Auvergne, the moulin à vent de Seyrignac is a star of the local landscape. With its majestic wings turning with the wind, it proudly dominates the Lot countryside. Lovingly restored by its owner, this 15th-century mill is one of the few windmills still in operation in the Lot. You’ll learn about all the stages involved in making flour, from the stone to the bag. It’s a lively, educational tour that plunges you into the day-to-day life of the millers of yesteryear.

Interior of the Vitrac Mill — ©Vitrac Mill|OTGF

The water mill

de Vitrac

Nested in the heart of the picturesque vallée de Cerles, in Aveyron, on the commune of Capdenac-Gare, the moulin de Vitrac is a gem of the milling heritage of Rouergue. Once one of six active water mills in the valley, this historic 14th-century mill stands out today for its two rare and perfectly preserved octagonal millstones. During guided tours, passionate owner Mr Lambin enthusiastically shares the fascinating history of this traditional water mill and offers milling demonstrations, revealing the secrets of the age-old process of transforming grain into flour. Opening in 2026!

Did you know?

Medieval engineering still visible

Some of the region’s water mills have preserved architectural features from the 13th century. Broken arches, ashlars and water supply channels bear witness to the ingenuity of the local craftsmen.

An ingenious hydraulic system

The tributary mills used a horizontal wheel that was free, simple, easy to use and, above all, water-efficient. A clever local solution for areas with low or irregular flow!

Not just flour

While mills were first and foremost used to grind grain, they were also used to press walnuts for oil, saw wood, whip fabrics and operate forges. A true multi-purpose factory before its time.

Heritage Days

de Pays et des Moulins

28Jun

Journées du Patrimoine de Pays et des Moulins à Thémines