Step into France’s rural past with a guided tour of Moulin de l'Epinay — a historic windmill with centuries of craftsmanship. Discover traditional milling techniques and enjoy stunning countryside views in this unique heritage site.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and physical fitness levels
Wildlife
History
The mill played a vital role in the local economy throughout the 19th century and was fully operational until the mid-20th century.
Conservation
The site actively promotes sustainable tourism by maintaining traditional practices and reducing environmental impact.
Moulin de l'Epinay
Step into France’s rural past with a guided tour of Moulin de l'Epinay — a historic windmill with centuries of craftsmanship. Discover traditional milling techniques and enjoy stunning countryside views in this unique heritage site.
Moulin de l'Epinay is a historic working windmill located in Mauges-sur-Loire, Pays de la Loire. The mill dates from 1822 and operates as a cultural and educational site offering guided tours, hands-on workshops, seasonal events and immersive experiences. A resident miller leads visits, explaining traditional milling techniques and the production of flour across three dedicated spaces within the site. Visitors can join the Visite guidée du Moulin to learn about mechanisms, grain processing and the mill's restoration history.
Family-focused workshops include Atelier Apprenti pâtissier (cookie-making using mill flour) offered Tuesdays during the Easter school break, and Atelier Apprenti Constructeur de Moulin (build and paint a wooden windmill model) held Thursdays during February, Easter and Toussaint holidays. The site also hosts an Escape-Game titled "L'embuscade de l'Epinay", placing participants in a 1914 wartime scenario, plus seasonal programs such as Contes de Noël and events for the Journées Européennes du Patrimoine.
The mill emphasizes authentic interpretation, hands-on learning and safety for participants of all ages. Activities are led by trained staff and the miller; guided tours provide historical context and technical insight. Accessibility details, practical information and booking options are available through the mill's visitor information channels. Moulin de l'Epinay serves as a local heritage attraction that combines living history with interactive experiences, appealing to families, school groups and heritage visitors seeking an engaging, educational outing.
Onsite interpretation materials and seasonal demonstrations support learning, and photographic documentation highlights conservation efforts carried out during restorations and maintenance, open to public viewing when available.
Location
Mauges-sur-Loire
Pays de la Loire setting
Historic Since
1822
Operating historic windmill
Tours Offered
Guided tours & workshops
Family and school-friendly experiences
Cultural Events
Seasonal programs
Escape-game, heritage days, Noël tales
Reserve workshops, guided tours or the escape-game for memorable hands-on heritage experiences in Pays de la Loire.
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be walking through different parts of the mill and surrounding areas.
Bring a camera
Capture the historic structures and scenic views around the mill.
Check tour times in advance
Tours are scheduled and may require reservations during peak seasons.
Dress for the weather
The outdoor areas and mill interiors can vary in temperature and weather conditions.
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for walking through mill spaces and outdoor areas.
Camera or smartphone
Capture the historic views and details inside the mill.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Dress accordingly to stay comfortable during outdoor parts of the tour.
Notebook or sketchpad
Optional for jotting down observations or sketches of the historic machinery.