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25 Aug 2024
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Description
This is a cozy 12-room retreat nestled in the serene Serra de Estrela foothills of central Portugal. We've just about wrapped up the building and restoration phase of this incredible project, and now we’re ready to bring in more permanent, hospitality-oriented staff. We're adapting to this new reality and are excited to welcome passionate individuals who will help shape the next chapter here.
If you apply now, you’ll still have some initial prepping to do before we open our doors in April 2025—but after that, it’s all about creating memorable experiences for our guests.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Art Projects
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Farmstay help
Creating/ Cooking family meals
General Maintenance
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
Our workawayers are at the heart of a cultural mosaic, engaging in an exchange that extends far beyond the bounds of traditional learning. Immersed in the vibrant community of central Portugal, they'll have the unique opportunity to delve into the sustainable practices that guide our farm and horticulture projects, understand the principles of eco-conscious construction using locally sourced wood, and contribute to the revival of our country house.
This journey offers a hands-on education in environmental stewardship, a deeper appreciation for the slow-food movement through our organically grown produce.
More than skills, workawayers will forge connections with like-minded individuals from around the globe, enveloped by the rich tapestry of Portuguese culture, language, and the unspoken stories of the land. Through this exchange, they'll gain insights into a lifestyle that prioritizes harmony with nature, community collaboration, and the joy of creating something enduring and beautiful together.Host offers payment in line with the minimum wage
This host offers accommodation and payment.
Host has indicated that they will pay at least the minimum hourly wage of their country for each hour worked and that accommodation will also be provided. They are asking for help with a business or business activity. Contact the host directly via the site messenger for more information and details about the wage provided. Any arrangements should be agreed in advance with your host.
Help
Life here
Here , we believe in variety. No one spends their entire day doing just one thing—it keeps the workday fresh and engaging. You’ll work around 8 hours a day, and as per Portuguese law, you’re entitled to two days off each week. But remember, this is hospitality, so your days off might not always land on the weekend.
Everyone enjoys 22 days of paid holiday annually, though these are taken when this place is closed (from November to April). During these off months, we keep busy with prepping for the upcoming season, tidying up, maintenance, and even some light building and painting. And yes, you'll still get paid during this time—we’re talking about 14 months of pay spread across the year, as required by law.
Our wages are competitive with standard rates in the Portuguese hospitality industry. Plus, we provide free accommodation in one of our staff houses, with 6 private rooms. You’ll also enjoy lunch on working days when this place is open, and you’ll have access to a fully equipped kitchen at the staff house for your other meals.
We welcome couples, though only one of you can work here—just in case someone needs to leave, we want to ensure our team remains strong. There are plenty of job opportunities in the region for your partner, depending on their capabilities. The Staff House is not an ideal place for children.
Who We're Looking For
The Chef: Your main passion? Cooking, of course! You’ll whip up a vegetarian breakfast and lunch buffet, using fresh produce from our organic garden. You’ll also get to showcase your culinary skills in our indoor-outdoor kitchen, which can double as a workshop space. Expect to spend about 6 hours in the kitchen each day, with the remaining 2 hours dedicated to some relaxing gardening. Experience is key here, but if you’re not yet a chef, don’t worry—kitchen experience is what we’re after.
The Night Owl: Not a morning person? Perfect! Start your day around 11 AM, help prepare and serve lunch, and spend your afternoon in the garden before heading to the bar in the evening. Some bar or kitchen experience would be great, but being a quick learner works too.
The Governess: Think of yourself as the Mary Poppins of housekeeping. You’ll help ensure our guests’ rooms are spotless, and organize cleaning schedules. This will take about 4 hours of your day, leaving you time to assist in our gardens or kitchen. No prior experience is necessary—just a keen eye for detail and a love for keeping things tidy.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Dutch: Fluent
Portuguese: Fluent
Spanish: Beginner
French: Beginner
Accommodation
Workawayers are accommodated in the cozy Staff House, offering individual rooms with options available for couples, ensuring privacy and comfort for all.
The house features a fully equipped kitchen along with communal dining and lounge areas, designed to nurture a communal spirit among residents. While we operate as a paying host and won't be providing regular supplies of food, workawayers are welcome to pick fruit and harvest vegetables from our organic gardens, contingent on availability and seasonal growth.
What else ...
We offer fast WiFi for all our workawayers, ensuring that everyone can keep in touch with loved ones, manage remote work, or simply unwind online during their downtime.
When not engaged in activities on-site, workawayers have the splendid opportunity to explore the charming surroundings of Coja. This picturesque town, nestled in the heart of Portugal, is known for its serene riverside spots, traditional Portuguese architecture, and vibrant local markets.
Whether it's taking a refreshing dip in the clear waters of the river beach, hiking through the lush landscapes, or enjoying the warmth of the local community, Coja offers a peaceful yet enriching experience for travellers and helpers seeking to immerse themselves in the culture and natural beauty of the region.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
Digital Nomads welcome! Great Wifi available.
Space for parking camper vans
We have space for 3 vans. Travellers are more than welcome!
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Hours expected
Maximum 4-5 hours a day, 5 days a week
