The Villar d'Arène grain mill

The Villar d'Arène Grain Mill, the last surviving mill of its era, is a long, solid building dating back to the early 18th century. It still retains the systems that enabled it to function in its day.

Back then, the mill ran nonstop from October to December, and the miller had to be there day and night to tend to it.

In fact, the tour reveals not one mill but three. They were all restored by Maurice Mathonnet and still feature the mechanisms that allowed them to operate back then.
The first two mills were powered by the rushing waters of the Romanche River, and the third is a hand-powered mill—that is, it is set in motion by a person or an animal. In this case, a person turned the millstone to grind the grain.

There is also a wealth of period artifacts, making this mill a true ecomuseum of life in Faranchine. Visitors learn how cheese and dairy products were made, discover the typical attire of a miller, and see how the machinery was operated. Did you know that Villar d’Arène used to produce hemp back then? In fact, the hemp was harvested in the village and then sent to Briançon to be woven and used to make sturdy clothing and flour sacks.

You’ll discover a timeless building where the history of mountain villages is rich with memories and anecdotes. To learn more, you’ll have to visit in person.

Free to participate. Reservations by phone for tours on request.

Pets allowed

Pets not allowed