Ferme Caussenarde d’Autrefois: Going Back in Time at the Heart of Causse Méjean

Published on 19-08-2024

#animals #family #Lozère #local #cheeses #bakery

Ferme Caussenarde d’Autrefois: Going Back in Time at the Heart of Causse Méjean

Today, we invite you to turn back time and explore the daily life of the farmers on the Causse Méjean before the 1950s. Located only 45 minutes away from the Grand Hôtel du Parc, the “Ferme Caussenarde d’Autrefois” is a beautifully preserved, historical site, waiting for revealing its secrets from the days when the farm was still inhabited. It offers a unique family experience that will delight children and provide an authentic glimpse into rural life.

Ready to turn back the clock? Then don’t wait — prepare to immerse yourself in the ancient Lozère’s farming life for an unforgettable day.

Visiting the Farm: Discover the Way of Life of Olden Times

Starting in Florac-Trois-Rivières, take the road towards Hures-La-Parade (following signs to Aven Armand) and head to Hyelzas. You can park at the Farm’s car park, which also offers parking spots for motorbikes and bicycles.

Get ready to dive into in the everyday life of the Causse Méjean's farmers! At the Ferme Caussenarde d'Autrefois, you will uncover a treasure of Lozère’s heritage while travelling through times. By choosing the classic tour (“visite classique”), you and your family will be transported to the 17th century, right in the middle of a perfectly preserved caussenarde farm.

Every room you explore is filled with objects used every day back then, old agricultural tools, and meticulous reconstructions that bear witness to the lives of those country persons of the past. You will learn how the locals lived in tune with the seasons, far removed from our modern comfort nowadays.

Try New Activities for a Day Full of Surprises

Both children and adults will be delighted by demonstrations of old trades and the opportunity to meet the farm animals. And that’s not all! The farm offers a wide range of fun, varied activities, from learning to write with a quill to taking care of the farm’s animals. You’ll also be captivated by the story of Nora, the first little shepherdess of the Causse, which is available as an additional option. Simply visit the farm’s website ahead of your visit to book the workshops that interest you.

To make the visit accessible to everyone, explanatory brochures are available in several languages, including French, English, German, and Dutch.

A Typical Local Lunch with Le Fédou Fromagerie

For lunch, how about extending the authenticity of your experience? Go for the picnic prepared by Le Fédou Fromagerie, a dairy which produces sheep’s milk cheeses—a perfect gourmet lunchtime to savour local products! You can also choose to book a combined visit (“visite combinée”), which includes a self-guided tour of the farm and a cheese tasting session led by a knowledgeable guide, featuring explanations about the different cheese-making processes.

Other lunch options include enjoying a delicious meal made with farm-fresh products at one of the nearby farm inns.

On the Way Back: Visit the Moulin de la Borie, A Must-See

After your visit to the Ferme Caussenarde d'Autrefois, save some interest for one last stop: the Moulin de la Borie, another gem of the local heritage! Accessible by car on the way back, this 18th-century windmill is the only one of its kind in Lozère.

Alternatively, you can follow the Moulin de la Borie trail from the farm to reach the windmill on foot (information can be provided on-site upon request). This pleasant walk offers breathtaking views of the stunning Causse Méjean landscapes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Fully restored, the windmill is back in operation, producing flour that supplies local bakeries—such as “La Gourmandine” in Florac!

A perfect combination of cultural, culinary, and natural activities, this day trip has enabled you to discover the heritage of Lozère. After such a day filled with emotions and experiences, the Grand Hôtel du Parc invites you to get back gently and to relax. So, unwind by the large pool, savour delicious local dishes, and enjoy the comfort of its rooms—this is the ideal place to extend your stay in Lozère!

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Opening Periods 2025

Hotel : Open from April 6, 2025 / Close on September 28, 2025

Restaurant : Open from April 11, 2025 / Close on September 28, 2025

Pool : Open from June 3, 2025 / Close on September 30, 2025