Fantasy Holidays in a time of COVID

44. The Mill France - Nathalie Edwards

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I am Nathalie. An interior architect, artist, former project manager and all round dreamer. In November 2018, I left my London life, took the plunge, and moving my life to France. I now live in a Water Mill which dates back to pre1735. It sits on the banks of the River Cernon, in the region of Aveyron. Surrounded by nature on the edge of the village of Saint-Georges-de-Luzençon, close to the market town of Millau and 2km from the Norman Foster designed Millau Viaduct. I have been refurbishing the building - it was a working flour mill until as recently as 2000 – retained many of the original features, determined to keep as much of the buildings history as possible. As well as the new kitchen/dining area and the new salon reception room, there are now 4 new bedrooms, 3 new shower rooms and 4 new toilets added to the existing self -contained apartment that sleeps up to 4 people. A delightful meditation/chill out room has been created on the ground floor and the sun terrace has been refurbished and made usable. The conversion of the old 120 Mtre Sq piggery into a working ceramics/art studio has also been completed! I am a ceramic artist and will be splitting my time between creating my own works and hosting/facilitating retreats/workshops/collaborations and residencies. Covid has been a challenging time, but weirdly allowed me more time as due to travel restrictions etc, I have not been able to facilitate retreats or host many events, as per the paned programme. The Covid Situation (this is written/ recorded June 2021) has allowed me more time to be creative and it’s during this time that my Goddesses Sculptures Series has come into being. I am also writing a book, with the help and support of fellow writers at The London Writers Salon. I would have made no progress if it were not for these guys! This summer I have planned two Raku ceramic courses and in I will be hosting September Writers Retreats ( Email address is below if you would like further information on these or general stay enquires) I have also undertaken the somewhat daunting challenge of starting the process to become a micro hydroelectric power supplier of energy to the green grid. No small feat, especially with the world renowned challenges of French Administration! I am determined to make real change in a positive direction for the planet and future generations. This project will be financed by eco warriors far and wide and everyone who is interested in helping take the strain off Mother Nature’s precious natural resources. If you would like to be kept informed about all news from The Mill, please feel free to sign up for The Mill News Letter for information on events, ceramics, hydroelectric progress and all the shenanigans of a London Gal, swapping her life for one in the French Countryside! P.S. This summer I have planned two Raku ceramic courses and in I will be hosting September Writers Retreats ( Email address is below if you would like further information on these or general stay enquires) https://themillfrance.com/blog email: [email protected] for more information https://www.nathalieedwards.com/ for my ceramics The Mill was featured in a short video sponsored by Bricomarche a French DIY store featuring interesting places to stay in France – You can see more of The Mill , and a very nervous me here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWiVPkf4ZDE instagram: themillfrance Facebook: The Mill France