In the Pornic countryside, Le Sens des Simples is an extraordinary farm dedicated to growing and harvesting aromatic and medicinal plants Mathilde, an enthusiastic farm manager, cultivates her treasures with a deep respect for the environment, scrupulously following the principles of organic farming. The plants, hand-picked and carefully sorted, are then dried at low temperatures to preserve their colours, flavours and virtues. Herbal teas with intoxicating scents, savoury bear's garlic pestos, soothing balms and natural cosmetics make up Mathilde's varied range. In addition to its exceptional products, Le Sens des Simples offers visitors a unique experience. From mid-June to the end of August, Mathilde opens the doors of her garden for free visits every Thursday morning. This is an invaluable opportunity to discover the secrets of the herbalist's craft, from growing the plants to harvesting and drying them. It's a great way to combine nature, well-being and education.
We've tried out "Balade digestive", a blend of verbena, mint and lime blossom, and "Lendemain de fête", an original herbal tea made from nettle, verbena, rosemary, fennel and marigold We liked them so much that we've decided to offer them for sale in our offices.
Located on the iconic site of the Fontaine aux Bretons, in the heart of the La Fontaine Eco-Domain in Pornic, this farm is an oasis dedicated to growing local, seasonal flowers. Nolwenn grows over 60 species and 80 varieties of cut flowers, all in season and grown without chemical inputs. It's a place where every gesture in the garden is guided by a desire to respect biodiversity: no pesticides, minimal tillage and protection of underground life... You can help pick fresh flowers and compose your own country bouquets, learn more about eco-responsible floriculture or take part in :
Each of these workshops allows you to pick, compose and leave with a floral creation, in a friendly atmosphere accessible to all.
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Want to savour the freshness of local produce while enjoying a great natural experience? Here are three not-to-be-missed addresses for authentic, environmentally-friendly picking.
Come and pick strawberries, raspberries, redcurrants, bilberries and blackberries, as well as rarer berries such as kiwai and aronia (from mid-May to the end of July) After picking, enjoy delicious homemade syrups (over 40% juice, no additives), jams and smoothies The little extra: children will love meeting the ewes and hens on the farm
This organic market-garden farm is open from mid-May to mid-October: pick your own seasonal fruit and vegetables (tomatoes, squash, lettuce, etc.) Parents and children love this friendly activity: ‘Fresh, quality produce... an unforgettable experience’ The little extras: no worries, equipment is provided (basket, wheelbarrow), a map of the farm is supplied and weighing by the kilo is done in the shop
In this permaculture orchard, pick as much fruit, berries and aromatic herbs as you like. Baskets, buckets and secateurs are provided, so you can make up your own pickings straight away. Bonus : some strawberries are old and little-known varieties such as Rubis des Jardins, Ciflorette, Favette or Cigaline
This is a farm shop where you can find the flavours of yesteryear, grown in a sustainable and environmentally-friendly way. You can take part in the picking, order baskets and baskets of fruit, and find anti-waste fruit and vegetables. A little extra : make pretty fruit baskets
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