Traditional and permaculture based gardening in Haut-Languedoc, France

Details

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  Description

  I left the UK about fourteen years ago and after travelling, working and volunteering all over the world. I have decided to set up a base in the south of France. With the help of volunteers, I have spent the last 5 years transforming some old French farm building into my home and am now moving towards making this project and lifestyle sustainable. I am a motorcyclist with past adventures in India, Africa and Europe and like to take weekend trips and attend rallies. In the past I was a very active rock climber and occasionally explore the local climbing areas.
  I speak English and very basic French. Also on other volunteer websites.

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  Types of help and learning opportunities

  Art Projects

  Language practice

  Gardening

  DIY and building projects

  Creating/ Cooking family meals

  Help around the house

  General Maintenance
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  Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

  I travelled and volunteered for 12 years and would like to return the hospitality that I was offered along the way, share some of the skills I have acquired and hopefully pick up some of yours. I am quite new to the area and am looking forward to exploring what the Haut-Languedoc has to offer with you.

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  Help

  Most help required relates to converting a couple of barns and garden/field near La Salvetat sur Agout in the Haut-Languedoc Natural Park in the south of France. Friends and family visit occasionally but mostly I'm working on the project alone or with volunteers. There is a lot to do requiring a variety of abilities, so you are welcome whether you have skills to bring or just want to experience something new.
  
  Chores that need your help:-
  
  I am looking for someone to take over the gardening. I would anticipate a busy spring with setting out the garden and planting, garden maintenance and help with outside projects throughout the year and preserving produce (Pickles, Jams, Wine etc.) at the end of the season.
  The position would suit someone with an interest in Traditional and permaculture based gardening, alternative living and rural French lifestyle.
  I have a small woodworking workshop on site where I work on a verity of projects for mostly local customers and run a barn style Gite throughout the year; Help with these might be called upon if it is of interest to you.
  
  Outside projects planned for 2021:
  wooden Greenhouse construction.
  Constructing a frame for climbing plants to create a shaded seating area.
  Construct an outside shower.
  
  Extended stay may suit someone that is looking to move to the area permanently.
  
  Do get in touch if a stay in Haut-Languedoc interests you.
  
  (Parking is limited which means I can not except van dwellers, sorry)

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  Languages

  Languages spoken
  English: Fluent
  French: Beginner

  This host offers a language exchange
  This host has indicated that they are interested in sharing their own language or learning a new language.
  You can contact them directly for more information.
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  Accommodation

  Accommodation is a small caravan or a shepherds hut which are in the garden. Bed, seating and table. solar power for light/phone charging etc. mini woodburner for if its cold. books and games, guitar and local information. Your own space to chill out and sleep. Cooking equipment can be arranged for a long term helper if required but normally we eat together. Toilet and shower facilities are in the main building and Gite. (compost, dry toilet in the garden)

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  What else ...

  The immediate area is mixed forest dotted with lakes and crossed with walking routes and mountain bike trails. An ideal location for lovers of nature and outdoor country sports. I'm still new to the area and like to take at least one day a week for exploration.
  
  Helpers hours are negotiable and flexible depending on your plans and the work that needs doing at the time. I'm sure you can research the area on your own interests for your free time but here are a few keywords for the type of activities I have discovered already:-
  
  Markets, Lakes and Rivers - swimming, fly fishing, sailing, Kayaking. Forests - hiking/walking, VTT/mountain biking, mushroom hunting, wildlife spotting. Mountains - skiing, rock climbing. Historic villages and towns – crafts, artisans, local beer – honey – wine - charcuterie.

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  A little more information

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    Internet access

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    Limited internet access

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    We have pets

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    We are smokers

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    Can host families

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  Can host digital nomads

  WiFi is usable but not high speed.

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  How many Workawayers can stay?

  One

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  Hours expected

  Maximum 4-5 hours a day, 5 days a week

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