The best walks and hikes in Charente

A visit is absolutely recommended, unique.

Why visit the Meulières de Claix in Périgord? For the historical heritage: The site is a fascinating example of the importance of millstones in the agricultural economy of centuries past. For the natural setting: Located in a quiet forest environment, the Meulières de Claix offer an ideal opportunity to walk and discover the Périgord nature while learning about the local past. For the geological aspect: Geology enthusiasts will appreciate the study of millstone rock, its unique characteristics and its ingenious exploitation. The Meulières de Claix in Périgord are an essential destination for history buffs and nature lovers, offering a perfect combination of industrial heritage and geological discovery.

Remains of the quarries: Today, the old quarries of Claix are still visible, offering a unique insight into the industrial exploitation and extraction techniques of the time. A natural and historical site: Walks and discoveries: The millstone site is accessible on foot via paths that cross the surrounding forest. It is a perfect place for a walk in the heart of nature while discovering a part of local history. Preserved landscapes: The millstones are nestled in a preserved natural environment, where you can also observe the fauna and flora of the Périgord. Memory of the craft activity: Visible traces: Traces of old extractions can still be observed on the site, such as cut or abandoned stone blocks, and cavities that bear witness to the intense past craft activity. Economic importance: The production of millstones greatly contributed to the prosperity of the region for several centuries, due to the importance of the mills for agriculture and flour production.

The Meulières de Claix en Périgord, located in the Dordogne department in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, are a site of historical and heritage importance. These millstone quarries, once used to make millstones, are a valuable testimony to mineral exploitation in Périgord. Points of interest in the Meulières de Claix en Périgord: Exploitation of millstones: Millstone manufacturing: The stones extracted from the millstones were used to make millstones, which were used to grind grain in mills. This industry was essential to the local economy, particularly during the Middle Ages and up until the 19th century. Quality stone: The millstone rock of Claix was particularly prized for its hardness and durability, which made it a material of choice for the region's millers. Geological heritage: Characteristics of millstone: Millstone is a porous siliceous rock that has an ideal texture for grinding. Its resistance to wear made it possible to manufacture high-quality millstones, used in water or wind mills.

Angoulême, city of the Valois, also city of Isabelle d'Angoulême, née Taillefer, the countess-queen, who with her husband Jean sans Terre created the city in 1203-1204-1205, initiated the construction of the chasteau-neuf in 1228, a 3rd level of ramparts on the east side, towards St Martial, and today deserves to be recognized in its city of birth. She will soon have a statue in her likeness, perhaps a street in her name, a painted wall, an Isabelle path towards Villebois... recognition for the woman who also promoted the Magna Carta, the great charter of freedoms, the beginning of modern democracy praised by Winston Churchill. Isabelle is honored across the Channel, not in her native Angoumois. A big gap to fill!!!

One of the most beautiful views of the historic heart of Angoulême and the Charente.

Bourg-Charente castle is a 17th century mansion. Nestled on a rocky promontory, it is located a few kilometers from Cognac. It also houses the remains of a medieval fortress. Acquired in the 20th century, this château houses cellars for producing Grand Marnier. It can be visited from Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Lac de Lavaud is actually an artificial lake created by man using a dam. Although swimming is often prohibited there, the lake is a beautiful natural feature to explore.