Lohi Telegram / Le Moulin du Roc
A 17th century mill-turned-hotel offers a quiet retreat on the banks of the Dronne River
The original mill (“le moulin” is French for “the mill”) was built in the 17th century to extract oil from walnuts. Traces of this past is still clearly visible in parts of the house, which now operates as a combination of hotel and restaurant, and has also served as inspiration for the décor in some of the bedrooms.
The presence of the old mill-parts thus brings a distinct historic quality to the building; the mill’s former utilitarian identity still lingering within its thick stone walls.
In 1969, the walnut oil-factory was transformed into a restaurant.
The hotel rooms were added in the 1990s. They’re only fifteen in total, spread out over three different buildings, guaranteeing an intimate stay. Most people only come here for the restaurant, so late evenings and mornings are usually quiet and peaceful.
The establishment is currently operated by Alain Gardillou, chef and son of the original hotelier (and whose mother was a double Michelin-star chef).
With parents in the trade, he learned already at a young age how to manage a comfortable hotel and how to run an excellent restaurant.
The hotel sits on the banks of the Dronne River, only ten minutes from the town of Brantôme.
The verdant garden is spacious, with more than enough room for everyone without it feeling crowded.
The hotel’s pool, tennis court and large lawn are on the other side of the Dronne from the hotel, so you have to cross a small, romantic wooden bridge to get there.
As soon as you enter, it is like you leave the outside world and all its worries behind.
The restaurant has had a Michelin-star since 1979. Depending on weather and mood, you can sit inside, on the covered terrace or beside the river.
In the mornings, breakfast is served either in your room or at the restaurant.
Best option (weather allowing) is to enjoy the breakfast on the terrace, while staff are tending to the garden around you, the Dronne is flowing and sounds from the kitchen are softly heard in the distance.
The hotel is wheelchair-accessible and dog-friendly.
Champagnac-de-Belair
France
