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.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, no prior experience needed
Wildlife
History
The mill has been operating since the early 19th century, preserving traditional milling methods and rural heritage.
Conservation
Efforts are focused on sustainable farming and preserving the natural landscape around the mill.
Moulin de l'Epinay
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.
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.
Arrive early for parking
Parking can fill up quickly during workshops, so arriving 15 minutes early ensures a smooth start.
Wear comfortable clothing
Expect to get a little flour on your clothes; choose attire you don’t mind soiling.
Bring a camera
Capture scenic shots of the mill and your baking memories, especially during the tour.
Pre-register for the workshop
Spaces are limited; booking in advance guarantees your spot on the baking day.
Comfortable clothing
Wear clothing you don’t mind getting flour on during the hands-on baking.
Camera or smartphone
Capture your baking moments and scenic views around the mill.
Sun protection
Use sunscreen or hats for outdoor parts of the visit.
spring|summer
Closed-toe shoes
Ensure safety and comfort during the milling and baking activities.