Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
27 Oct 2023
Feedback
19
Email verified
Badges (2)
Details
Description
We are an English couple of retirees who are living in the Lower Normandy region of France and want to become self sufficient, with a more manageable life style now we approach the restful part of our lives. We have a large family and we live in a small community near the town of Lassay Les Chateaux in the department of Mayenne. A beautiful and stunning town with ancient character and charm, where it's history is part of everyday life. A region steeped in the Arthurian legend and middle age history. We have a thirteen year old boxer called Gizmo, he is friendly and enjoys the company of others, animal and human.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Language practice
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Animal Care
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
This is a wonderful opportunity to explore a popular and intriguing part of the French countryside with history from the invasions of the Vikings to the biggest amphibious landing in history and all the modern repercussions thereof. Learn about the coming together of the French state the richness of the language and traditions of the amazing French farming and husbandry skills. Look into the specialist foods and drinks produced in this area of France. Cidre, camonbert cheese, eau de vie and biscuits from the Abbey d'Lonlay and so much more. Learn the French language as the French speak it. See how they enjoy the simple pleasures with a sense of delight.
Projects involving children
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
Help
Help with preparation of soil and garden structures, tree pruning for fruit trees and shrubs. Harvesting of fruit and the preparations of jams and jellies. Laying concrete paths and other ground related projects. Painting and preservation of garden and housing structures. General garden and building maintenance and any other small works involved in the general improvement of the property and the lifestyle. At present we require persons to help with cement works on exterior of future accommodation, to help prepare and apply water proof coating to ensure that the building is weathertight.
Languages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
French: IntermediateThis 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
At different times of the year we have a range of living quarters, a small gîte is available at certain times, but at all times we have a two berth caravans available, clean and well furnished, with television and cooking facilities. Internet is available at certain times and meals will normally be taken with the hosts. Bathing and washing facilities are available throughout the house and the gîté. The caravan is inside the barn and is not exposed so it is warm in the winter and cool in the summer
What else ...
This is an area of great natural beauty and has an amazing history. But for me it is the air of tranquillity, the flight of the falcons, the butterflies. The deer and badgers foxes and everything else we see throughout the natural year. Transport hear is very rural but bicycles will be made available for local shopping or we can provide transport to and from certain places when we are traveling around our normal life.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
Good wi fi link. 24/24 normal protocols
Space for parking camper vans
Any size van park on grass. No toilets or showers, locally available. Toilets and showers in the family home.
Can possibly accept pets
Dogs only. Must be accustomed to others dogs and humans, house trained.
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
Hours expected
Maximum 25 hours a week but a minimum of four days
Feedback (11)
They are both so kind and accommodating.
Gary is especially funny, we shared tons of laughs.
I loved my cozy caravan, but it was so nice to share meals at the table and enjoy a bit of TV.
It's a very nice area to explore and Gary took me around to see some sights and explain some history.
They are very… read more
My stay was very pleasant, they are generous… read more
Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(5.0)
Cultural exchange:
(5.0)
Communication:
(4.9)
They are both so kind and accommodating.
Gary is especially funny, we shared tons of laughs.
I loved my cozy caravan, but it was so nice to share meals at the table and enjoy a bit of TV.
It's a very nice area to explore and Gary took me around to see some sights and explain some history.
They are very… read more
My stay was very pleasant, they are generous… read more
The work was nice and… read more
A couple, one Slovenian the other French, good, diligent and clean workers who worked well. Iris had a few health problems when she arrived but J.P. Coped well with the requirements of Iris’ diet. They make a good team and have a good basic understanding of each other’s strengths. Friendly and sociable the couple will… read more
Lassey de chateux is a… read more
I am so grateful for my first workaway experience with Gary and Joyce, cause it was amazing! They always made sure that I was comfortable and happy in the caravan, while working, while eating and any other time of the day. - even while I was at my next workaway. They showed me the… read more
We spent a great time with Joyce and Gary and recommend them as absolute lovely and caring hosts.
They are relaxed, very generous and have a lot of humor, and are never in a big hurry :) Joyce cooked fantastic meals and we talked a lot about everything.
We felt as part of the family from the moment we arrived. They always… read more
Gary and his wife Joice are two lovely people who care about your wellbeing ahead of your work as a workawayer.
They are really kind and helpful in everything, they are also happy to help you to discover the beautiful countryside around the place where… read more
