Where we are in France is very rural and as has been mention has, historically often been overlooked. Its beauty lies in its beautiful rural scenery. But there is another side to the story. The area has sits on a wealth of natural resources including; coal, minerals and thermal springs. Whilst a history of mining is not perhaps such an attraction to tourists as some , it has left its mark, and has helped to make the area what it is today. Our château here in Bournazel might well have fallen into ruins had it not been taken over by the state as a rest home for miners.

The three main towns involved in the mining industry were: Decazeville, Aubin and Cransac.