Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
3 Feb 2023
Feedback
10
Email verified
Badges (1)
Details
Description
We are a couple in our 50's, who have been living in France for four years in a chateau which had been uninhabited for 40 years. Situated in the South West of France, surrounded by beautiful countryside but only 10 minutes drive from the lovely ancient town of Saintes and 30 mins from the coast . The area is very peaceful and a real rural retreat.We have 3 hectares of gardens, meadow and woods. We currenty have 7 hens and six sheep. After what has happened over the last 2 years we are keen to become as self sufficient as possible, growing our own food (we have a vegetable garden and many fruit trees) and breeding chickens and ducks. Using solar and wind power is also something we are beginning to explore.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Language practice
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Animal Care
General Maintenance
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
The experience of living in a French chateau in the beautiful French countryside. The opportunity to assist in all different types of tasks . We are not remote and so there are lots of interesting places to visit close by including Saintes with its Roman ampitheatre and history. If you want to learn French we have plenty of French friends and this area has relatively few English speaking residents. There will be opportunities to get involved in French life in the local community. The evening meals are often spent debating the worlds issues over a glass or two of wine.
Help
There is much to do in the grounds of the chateau from general cutting and clearing to landscaping. There are numerous old stone buildings within the grounds that are in various states of disrepair which need a bit of attention. We have a large vegetable garden which we are still establishing, so plenty to do there. If you know anything about breeding chickens or ducks then we would be interested in any advice you might have.
Languages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
French: BeginnerThis 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.
Accommodation
A large room in the chateau with shared bathroom facilities. Good fresh food, eaten together in the large kitchen or al fresco. Not forgetting to mention plenty of free range eggs from our own hens.
What else ...
The chateau is situated close to walking trails which pass through farmland and woodlands inhabited by wild deer and boar. We are close to the River Charente where you can kayak, hire boats or swim, which is very popular in the summer. There is an equestrian centre close by and a lovely golf course a short distance away. There are lots of markets to visit in the historic Roman town of Saintes. A lazy day can be spent on the beautiful beach at Royan or for something a bit more energetic a visit to the theme park or explore Crazannes with its stone sculptures and guided tours.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Space for parking camper vans
This host can provide space for campervans.
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
Hours expected
Maximum 4-5 hours a day, 5 days a week
Feedback (5)
Staying with them was an amazing experience in many ways.
I learned more about construction work, enjoyed amazing meals and met kind french and anglo-saxon friends.
The castle is really beautiful and the project very ambitious and interesting.
Five stars are not… read more
Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(4.6)
Cultural exchange:
(4.4)
Communication:
(4.6)
Staying with them was an amazing experience in many ways.
I learned more about construction work, enjoyed amazing meals and met kind french and anglo-saxon friends.
The castle is really beautiful and the project very ambitious and interesting.
Five stars are not… read more
Completely unnecessarily, as Sue and San made me feel welcome and at home in this amazing place.
They gave me choices as to the type of work, and were ok if I wanted to change jobs, as they have many tasks ongoing.
They took me to see local bands, and even though I had my own car ,happy… read more
