Saint-Martin-de-Belleville
The Mill and Green Energy Festival: Heritage and the Environment in One Event
24-05-2023 in HeritageThe second edition of the Fête du Moulin et de l'Énergie durable (Mill and Green Energy Festival) will take place on 25 June 2023 at the Burdin mill. Here's the lowdown on this free event, open to all, which combines traditional know-how with environmental issues.
Saint-Martin-de-Belleville
V. Lottenberg
In 2024, the 3rd edition of La Fête du Moulin et de l'Énergie Durable will take place on 23 June. The programme will be similar to the 2023 edition discussed in this article.
On Sunday 25 June 2023, the Maison du Tourisme de Saint-Martin-de-Belleville is holding a new edition of the Mill and Green Energy Festival. There will be activities for all the family held around the Burdin mill, including a trail on the theme of renewable energy. We've got all the details you need right here.
About the 2023 edition
Welcome to the Burdin mill! It will be opening to the public for a special celebration to mark France's National Days for Local Heritage and Mills. The event offers a chance to learn about both the valley's agricultural past and present-day sustainable energy sources. There will be guided tours and the chance to see the mill in action, with a demonstration of wheat milling just as it was done in the past.
Outside, there'll be a refreshment stall where you can get something to quench your thirst or taste local wines. You'll also be able to buy bread cooked in the on-site oven by the Praranger village association. To really make a day of it, why not bring a picnic? The rustic setting is fantastic for an al-fresco lunch on the grass.
Other activities will take place throughout the day, like an exploration of the surrounding ecosystem with the environmental educator of Les Belleville. Sporty types will be able to get a taste of the smoothie bike! And the Vanoise National Park, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, will be represented through an interactive theatrical performance. Finally, don't miss the brand new trail on the topic of renewable energy, the highlight of this second edition.
A fun and educational trail
Made from recyclable materials, the signs along this trail invite you to try out six different types of renewable energy. The whole family can have a go at powering a mini wooden gondola lift using a micro-turbine, for example. And what would you say to reconstructing a high mountain pasture chalet around the use of geothermal energy?
As well as being great fun, this trail illustrates the environmental actions currently being taken in the valley: solar panels, a mini hydro-electric power station, installation of biomass boilers and a study on the water-related heritage of Savoie. Protecting the mountains is one of our top priorities. The trail will be officially opened during the festival and will then be accessible near the mill all summer. Make sure you check it out!
The Burdin Mill, a link between past and present
This water mill is an important part of the Tarentaise valley's heritage. It is located near the Doron river in Les Belleville, at an altitude of 1,450m. It provided wheat, barley and oat flour to local families for nearly two centuries, remaining in operation until the 60s.
It was restored in 1996 and is as picturesque as ever, with its external water circuit and horizontal wheel system. Now used as a tool to help engage the public with local culture, it brings a traditional skill back to life while also encouraging reflection on energy sources. A wonderful place full of history, perfect for understanding where heritage and present-day issues are connected.
Practical information
- Free entry
- Sunday 25 June 2023, 10am to 6pm, at the Moulin de Burdin
- Try to use green modes of transport: you can get to the site on foot, on a mountain bike or in a horse-drawn carriage from the Les îles car park in the village of Saint-Marcel.
- For more information, contact the Maison du Tourisme in Saint-Martin-de-Belleville: +33 (0)4 79 00 20 00
