Moulin à vent de Gensac

Moulin à vent de Gensac is a historic windmill standing in the hamlet of Gensac, part of the commune of Montpézat in the Gers department, in the Occitanie region of southwestern France.

Where is the windmill and what does it look like?

The mill sits within the grounds of the Château de Gensac estate, a short drive from the center of Montpézat. It takes the form of a cylindrical brick-and-stone tower topped with a roof covered in wooden shingles — the current roof structure is dated 1801. The ground floor was designed as living quarters, while the grinding mechanism occupied a raised chamber above. This layout, combining a dwelling below with milling machinery above, was typical of windmills built in Gascony around the turn of the 19th century.

What is the history behind it?

The mill ground grain for decades before its sails eventually stopped turning at some point in the 20th century, leaving it idle for close to eighty years. The building is listed on France's Supplementary Inventory of Historic Monuments, a status that protects its original architectural form.

Its revival began after 2012, when the Gensac estate was bought by Sophie and Christian Duriaud. The new owners set out to restore both the windmill's appearance and its working function. Restoration work was carried out under the direction of architect Pierre Cadot, coordinated with the historic monuments authority in Auch to keep the building authentic. On 25 April 2021, new sails were fitted to the tower, and the mill turned again for the first time in decades.

What can visitors see today?

Standing next to the tower is the Maison du Meunier, the miller's house, built in the same period and also listed as a historic monument. Fully renovated, it now operates as guest accommodation carrying the 3-épis Gîtes de France rating. It sleeps up to eight guests across four bedrooms, with two bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a dining room, a lounge, and a covered terrace overlooking the surrounding Gers countryside.

The windmill and estate grounds open to the wider public during the national Journées du Patrimoine (Heritage Days) and during an annual local celebration known as the Fête du Moulin, when visitors can watch the restored mechanism turning up close.

Who is this destination for?

The site appeals to visitors interested in rural architecture and the agricultural history of southwestern France, as well as travelers looking for characterful, quiet lodging — thanks to the gîte set up in the miller's house, guests can view the windmill and stay right beside it. The Gers area also makes a convenient base for exploring a region known for its bastide towns, vineyards, and Armagnac production.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Moulin à vent de Gensac located? In the hamlet of Gensac, in the commune of Montpézat, Gers department, Occitanie, on the grounds of the Château de Gensac estate.

How old is the windmill? The structure dates from the late 18th century, with the tower's roof bearing the date 1801. It is listed on France's Supplementary Inventory of Historic Monuments.

Is the windmill still operational? Yes — following restoration completed in 2021 and the fitting of new sails on 25 April 2021, the mechanism turns again after nearly eighty years of inactivity.

Can visitors tour it or stay overnight? The windmill and estate open to the public during Heritage Days and the local Fête du Moulin. The adjoining miller's house operates as a 3-épis Gîtes de France guesthouse, sleeping up to eight guests.