The Donkeys of Carladès
Sarah and Gary founded **Les ânesses du Carladès** in 2021, a company that produces soaps and cosmetics using donkey milk from their own herd. Located in the Carladès region (Cantal/Aveyron), they handle every step of production themselves, ensuring full traceability. Their products, including soaps, shampoos, and creams, are available online, at markets, and through retailers.
They also offer donkey rentals for hiking in the Carladez area. Their farm is in Albinhac, near Mur-de-Barrez, within the Aubrac Regional Natural Park. Visit them to meet their donkeys!
The donkeys of Carladez: Tradition and Tourism in the Cantal
The donkeys of Carladez are a true emblem of this mountainous region of Cantal, in the Massif Central. This rustic donkey breed, perfectly adapted to the difficult conditions of the region, is an integral part of the local heritage and continues to have a role to play, both in traditional life and in the development of tourism.
Historically, donkeys were indispensable working animals for the inhabitants of the region. Their robustness and ability to withstand steep terrain has allowed farmers to transport heavy loads and work in difficult-to-reach mountainous areas. They were also used for pulling, transporting materials or even mowing pastures. These donkeys of Carladez have therefore played a crucial role in traditional agriculture, contributing to the daily life of local populations.
Today, the donkeys of Carladez continue to be at the heart of rural tourism. They have become popular hiking companions, allowing visitors to explore the region at a leisurely pace.
A Traditional and Sustainable
The donkeys of Carladès are raised in total respect of traditional and ecological agricultural methods. The animals live in a natural environment, often free range on the farm pastures, which allows them to develop under the best conditions. Livestock is raised in a responsible manner, preserving the environment and using sustainable practices.
The farm and its activities.
The Carladès donkey farm offers a multitude of activities for its visitors. Donkey rides are one of the main attractions. These walks allow families, children and hikers to discover the beautiful landscapes of Carladès while enjoying the sweetness and tranquility of donkeys. The farm also organises educational tours to raise public awareness of donkey breeding and the specific characteristics of this local breed. Visitors can learn more about the history and traditions of donkey husbandry while participating in discovery activities.
A Breed Adapted to the Territory
The Carladez donkey is a hardy breed, perfectly adapted to the difficult conditions of the region. It has the characteristic of being robust and resistant, which allows it to withstand the harsh winters and steep terrain of the region. Its thick coat, often grey in colour, helps protect it from the cold.
The Valorization of the Local Race
The objective of the farm is not only to preserve the Âne du Carladès, but also to value its products. For example, the farm offers derived products such as donkey milk cosmetics, known for its moisturizing and soothing properties for the skin. Donkey milk is highly valued in the manufacture of soaps and creams, which is another way to support local agriculture and promote traditional know-how.
To get to the donkeys farm of carlades from the Laussac Peninsula, here is the route :
By car:
Leave the Presqu'île de Laussac towards north following the D921.
Follow the D921 towards Saint-Flour for about 30 km.
In Saint-Flour, take the direction of Laguiole (D14).
Continue on the D14 and follow the signs for "Les Ânesses du Carladès". The farm is located in the heights of Carladès, so it is possible that you take more winding roads.