We spent a morning as a family at Caroline's farm, visiting the Fraysse farm in Saint-Joseph-des-Bancs, to discover what she does. We'll tell you all about it!
The morning step by step
It's 9:30 a.m. on a Wednesday in August, and Caroline is waiting for us at the meeting point with her two children. The day before, she thoughtfully sent a quick text message so we wouldn't get lost in the hamlets of the Ardèche. It's the kind of small detail that costs nothing but makes all the difference: we know we're expected, not just on a list.
The visit begins with a half-hour walk to the pigpen. The path climbs gently, paved and mostly sunny. The light mountain air keeps us from getting too hot. Caroline takes the opportunity to describe the landscape, talk about the chestnut grove we're passing through, and offer us a taste of some wild blackberries picked along the way. A hat and a water bottle are highly recommended (Caroline offers water at the top, but it's best to be prepared). The stroller fits easily.
At the top of the hill, the pigpen comes into view, nestled in the shade of a small oak grove. Caroline explains the few safety rules before Jules, her 10-year-old son and very serious assistant, opens the gates and helps fill the feed buckets. The children love it. Caroline has that rare talent for explaining things as they are, even when it comes to telling a little girl that these endearing animals will end up as sausages. She also speaks frankly about the administrative realities of farming. We gain a better understanding of the daily life of our hostess.
Then it's back to the farm to find the sheep. In summer, the barn houses lambs being fattened and ewes that Caroline herself describes as a bit under the weather. It's a far cry from the picture-postcard image of a pristine white sheep in spring: here, it's hot, the smell is strong, and you don't pet the animals through the pens. That's also a fact: it's up to us to adapt to the animals, not the other way around. The children, who all became friends with Jules in a single morning, understand this perfectly and press their noses against the bars, fascinated by the lambs.
The morning ends in front of the small shop, where Caroline's daughter, Anaïs, is waiting with homemade syrups and charcuterie sandwiches to sample. Of course, farm products can also be purchased on site. Caroline remains available to answer any remaining questions, as she has been throughout the visit.
It's an unpretentious visit, with someone who genuinely loves what she does and knows how to tell the story, including the less glamorous aspects.
A tour of the farm in pictures
Useful Information
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Caroline needs to know the number of participants in advance. That's why you need to reserve your places at least 24 hours beforehand. You can do so just below. But you can also come see us to reserve at the counter if you prefer.
1380 le Moulet 07530 Saint-Joseph-des-Bancs
My itinerary
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Volcan Bulles d’Ardèche : Visite de la source et de la production
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May 27 - September 30 , 2026
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