La fontaine
The name Bournazel (%ABBorn%BB in a pre-Latin language) means “lines of water.” This shows that, here more than anywhere else, water is very much a part of the landscape.
And it was precisely to harness this water that people built numerous fountains, wells, and washhouses throughout the town. These structures served many purposes: a water source for residents, a watering hole for animals, a public washhouse for laundry and wool, and a gathering place where washerwomen could chat and exchange stories!
The soil in this part of the town of Bournazel consists of limestone-rich causse. The ancestors knew how to turn what might seem like a disadvantage—these stony, difficult-to-work lands—into an advantage by transforming the limestone into lime. To do this, they built these kilns right on site; by burning the rock, they were able to transform the limestone into lime.
A very ancient material, lime has been used since Roman times to make mortar for buildings—from the simplest to the most colossal— as a disinfectant to purify contaminated areas or curb epidemics. For centuries and still today, lime has had many uses.
Spurred by a group of residents from the town of Bournazel, the information office and the town hall of Bournazel have joined forces to carry out a major project to reopen rural trails and make them accessible to hikers. A total of 38 km of trails have been clearedand marked by a team of volunteers, allowing you to now enjoy six trails, all of which start at the Bournazel community hall. The appeal of these trails lies in their variety: both in terms of distance (ranging from 3 to 24 km), difficulty, and the diversity of the landscapes they traverse. Special thanks go to the private landowners and the municipalities of Auzits and Roussennac, who have allowedthe trails to pass through their territories, thereby making it possible to create loops that all return to the starting point at Bournazel.
THE 9 COMMANDMENTS OF THE HIKER
%A0Stay on the marked trails and do not take shortcuts. If the route is modified, follow the new trail markers.
- Be considerate. We are not alone on the trails; be mindful of others.
- Take your trash with you. Leave no trace of your visit; do not litter, and carry a trash bag with you.
- Keep your dog on a leash, especially near homes or livestock.
- Close gates and barriers behind you, and go around crops. Please respect the work of those who shape and preserve our environment.
- Follow the rules at specific locations.
- Do not start fires. Areas with dense vegetation (forests) or those that are too exposed (scrubland, dry heathland, etc.) can catch fire very quickly.
- Do not drink water from streams. Clear water does not mean it is safe to drink.
- Check hunting seasons; some trails may be dangerous.
RECOMMENDATIONS AND PRACTICAL TIPS:
- Wear sturdy shoes.
- Bring some snacks and drinks.
- Hikers follow the trail at their own risk. Hikers remain responsible for any accidents they may suffer and for any damage they may cause to others (forest fires, vandalism, pollution, etc.).
