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Le Gîte Le Moulin is situated on a private, five acre island on the Charente River. When you drive across the bridge onto the Island you will find yourself transported to a haven for Nature’s diversity, consisting of 5 acres of garden and lawn to explore.. The original cottage, lived in by the mill owner, has been lovingly restored by the current proprietors. The result is a beautiful, spacious two bedroom gite. Guests have their own adjoining terrace, complete with relaxing riverside views. The first mill was built in the fifteenth century to make flour. It has a rich and varied history. During the Hundred years War it was occupied by the English. The mill was set alight in the 1930's, and after burning for a month it was destroyed. It was rebuilt but flour production was never resumed. During World War II, when the area was under German occupation, the barn was the venue for the local 'Bals Clandestines' - an illegal dance hall. This barn has since been incorporated into the owner's main residence. Until recently, the island was home to a successful eel fishery. Under new legislation eel farms have been banned due to over-fishing, however the original sluice gates and fishing equipment can still be viewed in situ. |