We are now ready to open the gates for you to come and join the ever growing number of people who cherish the memory of their stay at Lac du Ciel as an unique experience never to be forgotten. You are probably reading this page because of a recommendation from one such visitor - believe them - it is like heaven on earth.
The chalet with it's romantic lake views has two bedrooms one being a double and one with bunk beds for two. The lounge has a wood burning stove and a well equipped small kitchen. In line with our eco friendly aims the bathroom boasts a composting toilet, wash basin and shower; all electricity is 12volt from wind generator and solar panels. You will be able to plug in any of the equipment you used in your car on the way down.
The lake is well stocked with fish from mirror and common carp to roach and perch with an occasional glimpse of our koi and grass carp; you are welcome to try to catch them ( we even supply some basic tackle for you to use if you do not have your own) all we ask is that you put them back with as little trauma as possible. If you are able to dive then you will be able to see the giant freshwater mussels. There are many species of insect and numerous frogs, toads and lizards to be studied from the banks as well as dragonflies, damselflies and butterflies.
The bird life is equally rich and if you are lucky you will spot kingfisher, pied and yellow wagtail, green woodpecker, you will hear and possibly even see the spectacular hoopoe which now over winters in the area and should any heron or cormorant stop by a little noise to frighten them off after you have studied them would help preserve our fish stocks, although we realise that even herons and cormorants have to eat and do not begrudge them a tiddler or two. Circling overhead you will often see both red and black kite and, of course, the ubiquitous buzzard.
Planted around the lake are numerous plant species and, according to season, you can enjoy daffodils, orchids on the island, aquilegias, day lilies, iris and a wonderful variety of water lilies from white through cream to deepest pink. lemon balm, reeds and rushes abound and there are many lakeside trees to offer a little shade including birch, ornamental pines, ginko biloba and bamboo. The adjoining woodland, to which you have full access ( clearing pathways is an ongoing project ) is mainly broad leafed and you will find oak, ash, chestnut, walnut, beech and a host of others which you may spend hours trying to identify from the nature library in the lounge.
In the evenings, relax
with a drink beside the water and watch bats circling to catch insects to the background chorus provided by the
frogs. You can be sure to sleep well with the clear high altitude air ( we are 400 metres above sea level ) and
there is little traffic to pollute it either.
In Fayl Billot, a I km. walk you can visit the museum of basket work; Fayl Billot is the second largest basketwork centre in France with many outlets in the village and the museum also houses the National School of Basketwork. It is possible to arrange one week summer courses if you want to learn.
The famous Langres cheese is made in Fayl
Billot and you will be able to visit the fromagerie and buy some for after your meal or to take home.
The town of Nogent, 35 Km.to the North West boasts the cutlery making centre of France with a worthwhile museum and many shops where you can buy locally made knives for hunting, fishing, kitchen and table.
In the summer months the surrounding villages hold
their vide grenier or barn sales where you will discover on sale everything from antique household items to
vintage vehicles and more bric a brac than you can imagine; we will try to maintain a calendar of these and other
local events so that you do not miss out on the opportunity to see Deep France at its best.
Here are some more pictures of Lac du Ciel for you to browse
