Ferme de la Brunie Local cheeses bearing the Bleu-blanc-coeur label in Périgord Noir

LA FERME DE LA BRUNIE IN SAINTE-NATHALÈNE, FARM PRODUCER IN THE PÉRIGORD NOIR

A family farm in the heart of the Périgord Noir

Located in Sainte-Nathalène, near Sarlat-la-Canéda, La Ferme de la Brunie is a family farm specializing in milk production, on-farm processing, and direct sales of dairy products. Situated in the rural setting of the Périgord Noir, this farm perpetuates a know-how passed down for four generations.

The farm is located at the gateway to the Dordogne Valley, in an environment typical of the Périgord Noir region, amidst agricultural landscapes, charming villages, and major tourist attractions. From the village of Sainte-Nathalène, access to the farm is via the Jardins du Manoir d'Eyrignac, with signs indicating farm sales.

A dairy farm committed to a quality approach

La Ferme de la Brunie raises a herd of Montbéliarde cows for milk and beef production. The farm has approximately 55 dairy cows, 25 replacement heifers, and about fifty animals raised for meat.

Each year, the farm produces approximately 430,000 liters of milk. A significant portion of this production is processed directly on site to offer visitors and locals local farm products : fresh milk, cheeses, yogurts, butter and Sarlat tomme cheese.

The farm also adheres to the Bleu-Blanc-Cœur label, an initiative that promotes animal feed that naturally increases the presence of omega-3 fatty acids in livestock products. This approach contributes to agriculture that prioritizes milk quality, animal welfare, and balanced nutrition.

Farm produce processed on site

Processing milk on the farm allows us to offer products directly from the farm. Visitors can discover a short supply chain, from raising the animals to selling farm products.

The milk collected is divided between several uses: part is intended for processing into farm cheeses, yogurts, butter and Sarladaise tomme, another part meets the needs of the livestock, while the remainder is valued by the dairy cooperative.

The team at Ferme de la Brunie participates in the various stages of production. Bertrand Rouquié manages the farm, supported by a team dedicated to dairy product manufacturing, delivery, and agricultural work.

A robotic milking system for the comfort of the animals

Since 2015, La Ferme de la Brunie has been using a milking robot, allowing cows to access milking freely according to their natural rhythm. This system improves animal comfort and facilitates daily herd monitoring.

Each cow is individually identified using a connected collar. This system allows for the monitoring of various parameters such as rumination, movement, and temperature, ensuring precise monitoring of the animals' health.

The farm also pays particular attention to the cattle's diet. The animals primarily benefit from a grass-based diet, naturally rich in omega-3, supplemented in winter by fodder produced on the farm.

Visit to the farm and discovery of local products

La Ferme de la Brunie in Sainte-Nathalène welcomes visitors wishing to discover how a dairy farm operates in the Dordogne. A free, self-guided tour is offered during opening hours, allowing visitors to observe the farm and its agricultural surroundings.

Guided tours of the farm are also available by appointment. These tours provide a better understanding of dairy farming, robotic milking, milk processing, and the various stages of production of Périgord farm products.

Direct sales at the farm offer the opportunity to discover local products made on site, in an approach that favours short supply chains and the link between producers and consumers.

What to discover around the Ferme de la Brunie in Périgord Noir

Within a 30 km radius of Sainte-Nathalène, visitors can explore the landscapes of the Périgord Noir, with its hiking trails, wooded valleys, and charming villages. Sarlat-la-Canéda, renowned for its medieval heritage and traditional markets, is just a few kilometers away. The villages of La Roque-Gageac, Beynac-et-Cazenac, and Domme offer a glimpse into the region's distinctive golden stone architecture. The banks of the Dordogne River provide numerous walking routes, while local markets and small producers of foie gras, Périgord walnuts, farm cheeses, and other Périgord specialties enhance the region's gastronomic experience. The Eyrignac Gardens, the trails around the Dordogne Valley, and the many historical sites make Sainte-Nathalène an ideal starting point for exploring the Périgord Noir.

For your health, avoid eating too fatty, too sweet, too salty