Sometimes, you may think you have seen all there is to see in the Périgord Vert after wandering its roads from one village to the next. Then, suddenly, at a turn on a hiking trail, you find yourself facing a site of such beauty where water and nature create a magical tableau: welcome to the Saut du Chalard.
Presentation of the village of Champs Romain
Nestled in the lush heart of the Périgord Vert, Champs Romain is a charming commune home to approximately 300 inhabitants across 200 hectares. Located on a plateau at an altitude of 300 meters, this picturesque village owes its name to a historical decree from October 5, 1875, which merged the former name “Romain” with the locality known as “les champs” (the fields).
The commune is bordered for 4 kilometers by the Dronne, considered one of the most beautiful rivers in France. This privileged location offers visitors breathtaking landscapes and numerous outdoor activities.
The Saut du Chalard: A natural treasure
Just 1 kilometer southeast of the town, near the hamlet of Romain, lies the region’s natural gem: the Saut du Chalard. This spectacular waterfall on the Dronne is accessible via a marked trail, offering a walk of approximately 2 hours (round trip) from the village center.
The Trail of the Seven Wonders
Like Tom Thumb, set off to discover the seven wonders hidden in the corners of this enchanting path. Between the foliage and the sheer cliffs, the Saut du Chalard waterfall reveals the finest riches of nature: light, water, and earth. Metal sculptures line the route, identifying each space to explore.
How to get there?
The site is easily accessible from Château le Verdoyer. In the village of Champs Romain, 3 km from the campsite, follow the signs for the trail. Parking is available on-site. The hike takes about 30-45 minutes (100 m elevation change) and benches are provided along the way for your comfort.
Practical information
To enhance your visit to the Saut du Chalard, pick up the discovery leaflet available at:
- Champs-Romain Town Hall
- The St Pardoux Tourist Office
- The reception at Château le Verdoyer campsite
This guide will allow you to explore the “7 wonders” hidden along the trail, each marked by a distinctive metal sculpture.
The legend of the Belle de Fargeas
The Saut du Chalard hides a fascinating history dating back to 1640, during the reign of Louis XIII. This tragic love story involves the Lord of Vaucocourt, Governor of Thiviers, who fell in love with a young girl from Abjat, Claire de Fargeas.
Unfortunately, Claire’s heart already belonged to a young man from the village. Despite this, the Lord attempted to abduct her with a troop of horsemen. The inhabitants of Abjat and the hamlet of Fargeas rallied to prevent the kidnapping. In the ensuing battle, Claire’s fiancé killed the Lord, but perished himself under the sword of the Count’s squire.
The King, upon hearing of this rebellion, imposed terrible sanctions: hangings, sentences to the galleys, the abolition of the market and court in Abjat, and increased taxes. As a supreme punishment, he ordered the removal of the village bells. During their transport, one of them accidentally rolled away and disappeared into the waters of the Dronne.
Legend has it that this bell still rings every Maundy Thursday around 2 p.m., and that the village elders come on a pilgrimage to hear it: “Sonna, Sonna, per tots los damnats d’Ajac” (Ring, ring, for the damned of Abjat).
Claire de Fargeas died of a broken heart, and it is said that her soul regularly appears as a large white bird in the bell tower of Abjat, which has since recovered its bells. It is also worth knowing that a White Lady nests in the tower of Château le Verdoyer, halfway between Abjat-sur-Bandiat and Champs-Romain. Another local belief even claims that if you encounter a green and yellow snake during your walk, it could be the reincarnation of the Lord of Vaucocourt.
Heritage and activities
Châteaux and manors
The commune is dotted with several remarkable châteaux and manors, including:
- Château le Verdoyer
- Château de Paugnac
- Manoir de La Valade
Outdoor activities
- An extensive network of paths and hiking trails for walking or horseback riding
- A 2-hectare municipal pond, perfect for leisure fishing
- A unique countryside golf course created in 2009, where you can play without worrying about damaging the greens
The saffron farm of the Moulin de la Valade
Since 2001, Pierre Oudot has been cultivating Crocus sativus in his saffron farm. This exceptional plant, which blooms in autumn, produces the most precious spice in the world: saffron. Guided tours are available to discover this unique crop.
