Discover the art of milling and baking at Moulin de l'Epinay with a hands-on cookie workshop. A perfect family activity combining history, cuisine, and fun in the countryside.
Discover the art of milling and baking at Moulin de l'Epinay with a hands-on cookie workshop. A perfect family activity combining history, cuisine, and fun in the countryside.
Book with Moulin de l'Epinay
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Moulin de l'Epinay · Mauges-sur-Loire, Pays de la Loire
Located in the picturesque farm country, Moulin de l'Epinay offers more than just a glimpse into traditional milling—it's a hub for hands-on culinary experiences. Every Tuesday during Easter break, the mill hosts a charming cookie-making workshop that invites visitors of all ages to roll up their sleeves and enjoy the art of baking using flour freshly ground on-site. Beyond the immediate delight of creating and tasting sweet treats, participants discover the ancient techniques of milling, gaining insight into what makes this region’s grains so special. This isn’t your typical baking class; it’s an immersive journey into artisanal food crafts that ties local history to modern family fun.
The mill itself is a beautifully preserved piece of regional heritage, featuring old stone walls, wooden gear mechanisms, and scenic surroundings ideal for capturing memorable photos. After the workshop, a guided tour offers a deeper dive into the mill’s history—dating back generations—and its role in local agriculture. What sets Moulin de l'Epinay apart is its commitment to community, education, and sustainable farming practices, making it a true standout among outdoor activity destinations in the area.
Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or simply looking for a memorable family outing, this workshop offers a rich blend of learning, creativity, and connection. It’s perfect for those who crave authentic experiences rooted in local traditions, all while enjoying the fresh air and scenic views of the countryside. Come with an appetite, leave with new skills, sweet treats, and stories to tell.
easy.
2–3 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels, no prior experience needed
Yes, the cookie-making sessions are designed for families with children and are very kid-friendly.
All necessary ingredients and equipment are provided on-site; just bring your enthusiasm.
Please inform the staff beforehand; accommodations can often be made for allergies or dietary needs.
The combined workshop and tour last approximately 2–3 hours.
Yes, there is ample parking on-site, but arriving early is recommended during busy times.
Yes, homemade treats and flour from the mill are available for purchase.
The mill has been operating since the early 19th century, preserving traditional milling methods and rural heritage.
Efforts are focused on sustainable farming and preserving the natural landscape around the mill.
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.
Book with Moulin de l'Epinay