Background

Papeterie de Vaux: A Step Back in Time

Discover the art of traditional paper-making at this unique 19th-century mill in the heart of Périgord Vert.

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The Papeterie de Vaux is a historic paper mill dating back to 1861, located in the tranquil village of Vaux, near Payzac. This unique museum showcases the complete 19th-century paper-making process using rye straw, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's industrial past and a hands-on experience with paper creation.

A brief summary to Papeterie de Vaux

  • Tuesday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Sunday 2:30 pm-6:30 pm

Local tips

  • Check the opening hours before visiting, as they vary depending on the season.
  • Participate in a paper-making workshop for a hands-on experience.
  • Explore the surrounding area, including the Forges de Savignac and Lac de Rouffiac.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Papeterie de Vaux is located in the countryside near Payzac. From Payzac, follow the D704 towards Savignac-Lédrier, then turn onto a smaller road following signs for Vaux. The mill is located at the end of this road. There is parking available on-site. Note that parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    While public transport options directly to the Papeterie de Vaux are limited, you can take a regional bus to Payzac and then a taxi to the mill. Taxis in the area should be booked in advance. A taxi from Payzac to the Papeterie de Vaux, a distance of approximately 5km, will cost around €15-€25.

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Discover more about Papeterie de Vaux

Nestled in the Périgord Vert region, just 5 km from Payzac, the Papeterie de Vaux stands as a testament to the area's rich industrial heritage. Founded in 1861 on the site of two old forges, this paper mill specialized in producing paper from rye straw, a technique that was once common in the region. The location along the Belles Dames stream provided a crucial water source for the mill's operations. Today, the Papeterie de Vaux is a living museum, offering visitors a fascinating journey through the history of paper manufacturing. As the last factory in France to maintain an intact paper production line from the industrial era, it provides a unique glimpse into the 19th-century techniques and machinery used to create paper. The museum features the original refining piles built in Angoulême and a round form machine from Nexon, near Limoges. Visitors can explore the various stages of paper production, from the initial processing of rye straw to the final product. The museum also hosts workshops where you can create your own paper, offering a hands-on experience of this traditional craft. The site includes a large chimney and restored water wheels, showcasing the mill's original power source. The museum also details the close link between the site and Malherbeaux, another forge located a little over 1km away on the Auvézère river. Malherbeaux produced paper pulp which was then transported to Vaux. The Papeterie de Vaux is more than just a museum; it's a place where history comes alive, offering an engaging and educational experience for all ages.

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