One sometimes believes they have seen all of the Périgord Vert after travelling its roads, wandering from one village to the next. Then, suddenly, around the bend of a hiking trail, you find yourself facing a stunning site where water and nature combine to form a magical tableau: welcome to the Saut du Chalard.
Introducing the Village of Champs Romain
Nestled in the verdant heart of the Périgord Vert, Champs Romain is a charming commune home to around 300 residents across 200 hectares. Situated on a plateau 300 meters above sea level, this picturesque village owes its name to a historical decree dated October 5, 1875, merging the former name “Romain” with the locality known as “les champs” (the fields).
The commune is bordered for 4 kilometers by the Dronne river, considered one of the most beautiful rivers in France. This privileged location offers visitors breathtaking scenery and numerous outdoor activities.
Le Saut du Chalard: A Natural Treasure
Just 1 kilometer southeast of the village center, near the hamlet of Romain, lies the natural jewel of the region: Le 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 heart of the village.
The Trail of the Seven Wonders
Like Tom Thumb scattering pebbles, set off to discover the seven hidden wonders tucked away along this enchanting trail. Amidst the foliage and sheer cliffs, the Saut du Chalard waterfall reveals nature’s most beautiful treasures: light, water, and earth. Metal sculptures mark the route, identifying each space waiting to be explored.
How to Get There
The site is easily accessible from Château le Verdoyer. In the village of Champs Romain, just 3 km from the campsite, follow the signs indicating the trail. Parking is available on site. The hike lasts approximately 30-45 minutes (100 m elevation gain) and benches are placed along the route for your comfort.
Practical Information
To enhance your visit to Le Saut du Chalard, obtain the discovery leaflet available from:
- The Champs-Romain Town Hall (Mairie)
- The St Pardoux Tourist Office (Syndicat d’Initiative)
- The reception desk 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
Le Saut du Chalard conceals a fascinating story dating back to 1640, during the reign of Louis XIII. This tragic love story features 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 cavalrymen. The residents of Abjat and the hamlet of Fargeas mobilized to prevent the kidnapping. In the ensuing battle, Claire’s fiancé killed the Lord, but he himself perished under the sword of the Count’s squire.
The King, informed of this rebellion, imposed terrible sanctions: hangings, transportation to the galleys, suppression of the Abjat market and court, and increased taxes. As the supreme punishment, he ordered the removal of the village bells. During their transport, one of the bells accidentally rolled away and vanished into the waters of the Dronne.
Legend has it that this bell still rings every Holy Thursday around 2 p.m., and locals make a pilgrimage to hear it: “Sonna, Sonna, per tots los damnats d’Ajac” (Ring, ring, for the damned souls of Abjat).
Claire de Fargeas died of grief, and it is said that her soul regularly appears as a large white bird in the belfry of Abjat, which has since recovered its bells. It is also worth knowing that a White Lady (Dame Blanche) makes her nest 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 might be the reincarnation of the Lord of Vaucocourt.
Heritage and Activities
Castles and Manors
The commune is dotted with several remarkable castles 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 communal pond, perfect for recreational fishing
- A unique country golf course created in 2009, where you can play without fear of damaging the greens
The Saffron Farm (Safranière) of Moulin de la Valade
Since 2001, Pierre Oudot has been cultivating crocus sativus on 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 cultivation.
