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Host rating
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Last replied
11 Apr 2024
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Description
Bonjour! We're thrilled to invite volunteers to join us in our cozy corner of Lalinde, located in the scenic Dordogne region of France. Our family extends a warm welcome to those eager to help out with various projects while experiencing the charm of French countryside living.
About Us: We are Emma (39) and Andy (40), originally from the UK and now proud residents of France for the past four years. Before starting our family, we spent years traveling as a couple, exploring Europe, Australia and South-East Asia. We even did volunteering ourself on Workaway. Now, our family includes three wonderful children: Eve (6), Penny (5), and Celeste (2).
Emma's Business: Emma runs a business that creates films for charities, bringing attention to important causes and making a positive impact in the world through storytelling. She works from home so can be on hand if you need anything.
Andy's Profession: Andy is a skilled plasterer who works across the area, specialising in rendering, lime plastering, and restoration work. His expertise adds a unique dimension to our projects, and volunteers may have the opportunity to learn from his craftsmanship.
Accommodation: You will stay in a beautiful, refurbished caravan, providing you with your own space separate from the main house. The caravan includes cooking facilities, a fridge, running water and a toilet, with showers available in the main house.
Projects: There's no shortage of exciting tasks for volunteers, including gardening, barn renovation, animal care (we have two cats and two rabbits), and assisting with the renovation of our bungalow. At the moment we need help with getting the garden under control :)
Schedule: Volunteers are asked to contribute 4 hours a day, 5 days a week. This leaves ample time to explore the Dordogne region, from hiking trails to water activities and discovering historic towns and vineyards.
Family Atmosphere: Our household is lively and welcoming, filled with laughter, good food, and memorable adventures. While volunteers have their own space, they're welcome to join us for shared meals, cultural experiences, and family outings. Our three daughters are excited to meet new friends and show off their singing! As we have small children and both work, we might be busy at times but always happy to have a chat.
Languages: We speak English and French, with Andy also proficient in Spanish and some Italian.
We can't wait to welcome you into our home and share the magic of the Dordogne together!
Types of help and learning opportunities
Language practice
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Animal Care
Babysitting and creative play
Creating/ Cooking family meals
General Maintenance
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
Local Lifestyle: Our family embodies the essence of French countryside living, from enjoying leisurely meals made with locally sourced ingredients to participating in traditional festivals and markets in the nearby town of Lalinde and beyond.
Language and Communication: As a bilingual household fluent in both English and French, volunteers can enhance their language skills and engage in meaningful conversations with our family and the local community.
Craftsmanship and Skills: With Andy's expertise as a plasterer specialising in rendering, lime plastering, and restoration work, volunteers can learn valuable skills in construction and renovation. From working on our barn conversion project to tackling DIY tasks around the property, there's plenty of hands-on learning opportunities available.
Exploration and Discovery: The Dordogne region is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, historic villages, and prehistoric sites. Travelers can explore nearby attractions such as the medieval town of Sarlat, the prehistoric caves of Lascaux, and the picturesque Dordogne River, gaining a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural and historical heritage of the area.
Projects involving children
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
Help
We are seeking assistance from travelers who are enthusiastic about lending a hand with a variety of projects that contribute to our vision of creating a more self-sufficient and welcoming home in the beautiful Dordogne region.
Gardening: We have a vibrant garden that could use some tender loving care. Tasks may include planting, weeding, watering, and general maintenance to keep our outdoor space thriving.
Barn Renovation: We're in the process of transforming our barn into a cozy living space, and we could use extra hands to help with tasks such as carpentry, painting, and general construction work.
Animal Care: Our furry friends, including two cats and two rabbits, bring joy to our household.
Bungalow Renovation: We're embarking on the exciting journey of renovating our bungalow into a two-story house. Tasks may include plastering, painting, tiling, and other renovation-related activities.
Any additional skills or experiences related to these projects, such as gardening experience, construction skills, or a knack for DIY projects, would be greatly appreciated. However, a willingness to learn and a positive attitude are the most important qualities we're looking for in volunteers.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Spanish: Intermediate
French: Intermediate
Italian: Beginner
Accommodation
Volunteers will be staying in a charming and cozy refurbished caravan, situated amidst the serene surroundings of our property in Lalinde, Dordogne. The caravan offers a comfortable and private space for volunteers to rest and recharge after a day of activities and projects.
The caravan features all the amenities needed for a pleasant stay, including a comfortable bed for a good night's sleep, cooking facilities for preparing meals, and a private toilet for convenience. Showers are available in the main house, just a short walk away.
For lunch, we typically provide a hearty spread of freshly baked bread, a selection of meats and cheeses, and a variety of crisp salads. This allows volunteers to create their own custom sandwiches or salads, catering to their individual tastes and preferences.
In the evenings, volunteers can look forward to a homemade meal prepared with love by Andy, who brings his culinary expertise as a former chef to the table. As Emma and our eldest daughter Eve are vegetarian, many of our meals are plant-based, featuring seasonal vegetables, grains, and legumes. Andy's cooking skills are awesome!
Volunteers are invited to join us at the dinner table but we also are totally cool if you would like some time on your own :)
What else ...
Local Sights and Activities:
The Dordogne region is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Volunteers can take leisurely strolls through the historic town of Lalinde, just a short drive or scenic walk away from our home, and explore its charming streets, weekly markets, and nearby lively night markets during the summer months.
For those interested in outdoor activities, the area offers a wealth of options, including hiking along picturesque trails, visiting vineyards, and enjoying water sports on nearby rivers and lakes. The public pool, located just a 20-minute walk from our house, provides a refreshing escape on warm summer days.
Volunteers can also embark on day trips to explore the region's many attractions, such as the stunning medieval town of Sarlat, the prehistoric caves of Lascaux, and the majestic châteaux scattered throughout the countryside.
Transportation:
Our home is conveniently located near the town of Lalinde, which is serviced by a train station and buses, making it easy for volunteers to access nearby towns and attractions. For those looking to venture further afield, car rental services are also available in the area.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
This host has indicated that they love having digital nomads stay.
Space for parking camper vans
This host can provide space for campervans.
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Hours expected
Maximum 4-5 hours a day, 5 days a week
