Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
27 Apr 2025
Reply rate
100.0 %
Usually responds within 2 days
Feedback
132
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Email verified
Host offers payment
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Details
Description
Hi there!
Regarding payment.
We ONLY offer payment when we run retreats if we need a vegetarian cook for which we will pay in addition to board and lodging.
To confirm that you have read this part please say 'Om in the first line of your inquiry to us. 👍
.++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++±+
Latest. We are Looking for one or 2 volunteers from the 8th -22nd December, we will have one other volunteer here at that time.
Please let us know asap. 🙏
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Hi, we are Ellis and Camilla and are often looking for a couple or two friends to help us with the vegetable garden, berry picking, building structures, repairing things, taking care of the dogs and cooking.
For
We live off-grid which means things can go wrong with the water/solar hence logical thinking is a must. If you can take instructions with a can-do attitude, think logically, work on your own initiative and in a team then please read on.
We (Ellis, Camilla, friends and workawayers) have built an eco off grid experiential retreat in Foz do Farelo, 20 mins north of Monchique in the mountains of the Algarve and we love people to come and help us, we always need help with landscaping, continued permaculture, building and creativity.
In Autumn we are now picking medronho a small red berry that we sell. It's a slow process that involves walking around the hills picking from each bush, it's not difficult but you are working on hills and most of the time it's sunny although we do pick in the rain. There is also land clearing to do with a strimmer and some gardening. It is hilly here so a reasonable level of fitness is required.
Our aim is to create an inclusive rather than exclusive holiday retreat where people from all walks of life can relax in nature, try out some yoga, arts & crafts and learn a new skill.
We have a plot of land 60000 sqm (10 international football pitches for a size idea) it is a valley with a south and north facing hill. 90m height difference form top to bottom. We have rebuilt a small ruin and a larger ruin on the site of an existing ruin. We have temporary structures for glamping (pods/cabins etc) as well as flat areas for camping or a camper van.
For 25 hours per week of your time we will provide accommodation, food and drink (not alcohol), working with me and Camilla. weekly yoga, comfortable beds, warm bedding and towels.
On work days we eat lunch together, we sometimes eat dinner together and we generally all go to the local bar for food on a Saturday. On days off you make your own food when onsite (we will supply food). If you go out for the day you can make packed lunch or purchase your own food.
Our current accommodation on site includes a truck - which has been converted into a 2 bedded studio and a camper van for 1 person and 4 bell-tents in the summer.
Sunrise Lodge is usually where workawayers stay and has the main kitchen/diner for breakfast, lunch and dinner. We have an outdoor kitchen for guests. Everyone is expected to wash up and clear up after meals. Keep common shared spaces and their accommodation clean, and be responsible for washing your bedding. We have a washing machine that can be used and we have work clothes you can borrow.
No skills are necessary just a willingness to help and have a positive attitude.
Ellis is a skilled builder and can do pretty much everything. He will share his knowledge with you and give you tasks to do, sometimes projects are big like building and sometimes smaller like land clearing, the jobs really depend on the season. For anyone coming between January and March be prepared for lots of land clearing (clearing land to prevent fires), this is done in all weather conditions, so if you don't like getting muddy and wet then please don't request to do your workaway with us. Thank you for your understanding.
We have a bio-gas plant fully working, solar panels 7kw, energy storage water tanks high on the hill.
Camilla teaches yoga (hatha, vinyasa and kundalini) some days and is an excellent cook (mainly vegetarian), she has been in a 12 step program since 1999 - and is alcohol and drug free!
Our internet data is 90% great, but on occasion it stops working. we have a satellite dish and a small amount of reception for some mobile networks.
There is a free bus that you can take to Monchique on days off. It runs 4 days a week, 2 times a day. From Monchique it's possible to get buses to Portimao.
This workaway opportunity is perfect for people who are serious about off-grid living, permaculture, creative building and learning new skills. It is also a great place for those who prefer a drug free environment.
We have 2 dogs Mani and Chuva
and a fast cat called Bugatti Veyron.
Workaway tasks will be fun and rewarding as you will be seeing instant results which previous helpers have said is very satisfying.
We looking forward to hearing from you.
Thanks, Ellis and Camilla
Types of help and learning opportunities
Art Projects
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Animal Care
Farmstay help
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
You will learn building skills, how to make foundation, build temporary structures cabins, plumbing, sanitation, solar system, landscaping, digger driving, electrical systems. Composting toilets. Bushcraft, welding, biogas production, path and road construction, living pools. Additionally you will learn yoga, meditation and breathing techniques.
Projects involving children
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
Host offers payment in line with the minimum wage
This host offers accommodation and payment.
Help
Willing help of any sort. Gardening, landscaping, building, cooking, a can do attitude. 😀
Languages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Spanish: Intermediate
Sami: Intermediate
Portuguese: Beginner
Swedish: 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
Comfortable beds in a house and bell tent. You can also bring your campervan. We mostly have hot showers unless we've had a lot of grey days, then we boil up water and use a jug 😉
What else ...
The nearest main town of Monchique 15 mins by car. South coast beaches Algarve 45mins (20k as the crow flies), West coast 30 mins (15k as the crow flies) surfing. Mountain bike rides( good ride to west coast), walking, hiking, astronomy, surfing, yoga, paragliding (we need to find a take off)... we don't take drugs or smoke, my wife doesn't drink alcohol but I will have a few glasses but not to excess. This doesn't mean that you can't drink or smoke (because of fire risk smoking can only be done in the designated area) but no drugs please. There is lots of nature to explore and a free bus to Monchique 4 days per week for days out and sometimes we take people to the coast or to the matket. Faro airport is 1hr 20 min away by car. We are happy to answer any questions. Thanks Ellis and Camilla
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?
More than two
This host has been visited by a member of the Workaway team
"Although these hosts are new to workaway, after one month volunteering with Camilla and Ellis we feel confident in giving them our stamp of approval. What we found particularly rewarding here was the physical transformation we witnessed in the project. It’s still in the early stages which means that, as a volunteer, you are literally able to see your hard work change the space around you. We had very little building experience prior to this placement but this was never seen as an issue, our hosts were happy to teach us and even gave us the freedom to create and explore our own ideas (helping us when we needed). In exchange for our efforts we were well rewarded with fantastic company, delicious meals, yoga lessons, life lessons, beautiful accommodation and outings to see the nicest beaches in Portugal! We highly recommend a stay at here!"
Charlotte and Danilo (Workaway Ambassadors)
Host ref number: 885246413692
Feedback (55)
9 Mar 2025
Left by Workawayer (Luise & Pascal) for host
We stayed with Ellis and Camilla for three weeks in October which meant mainly berry picking and strimming. Even though the tasks seem repetitive we couldn’t have ask for a better first work away experience! The tasks were always clearly explained and laid out, mostly working alongside Ellis but also on our own. We always felt appreciated for our… read more
1 Jan 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Luise & Pascal)
Louisa and Calle were some of the best volunteers we have had. Camilla was away for a lot of the time whilst they were here and the three of us had a really nice time, We were picking medronho, Calle found it difficult as he is colour blind, we have found this make picking red berries in thick green foliage very difficult.
Instead he strimmed a… read more
Instead he strimmed a… read more
(Excellent
)
27 Feb 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Raphael)
Raphael is a nice guy, willing to help, will try any task and he asks lots of questions.
He does smoke and also drives. He's physically strong, trustworthy and has a great sense of humour..
His tasks here included strimming, lifting, carrying and he helped Camilla with social media tasks which he's particularly good at.
He is capable if you… read more
He does smoke and also drives. He's physically strong, trustworthy and has a great sense of humour..
His tasks here included strimming, lifting, carrying and he helped Camilla with social media tasks which he's particularly good at.
He is capable if you… read more
(Excellent
)
27 Feb 2025
Left by Workawayer (Raphael) for host
It was my first time with WorkAway and I am really thankful to have spent it with Ellis and Camilla. They built a wonderful place in the middle of the mountains. You will learn a lot about building at their place. Ellis has always been super enthusiastic about teaching me anything that has to do with maintaining the land. Camilla is a wonderful… read more
1 Jan 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Pedro)
Pedro stayed here for 3 weeks and is an asset to any project you have. He's a hard worker and a great cook! He was always eager to help from carrying bags from offering Camilla to carry food shopping from the car to washing up. He did many days of strimming when he was here, this was particularly difficult because it was on a steep slope. He also… read more
(Excellent
)
27 Dec 2024
Left by Workawayer (Pedro) for host
Ellis y camilla para mi fueron como unos padres para las mejores personas que conozco en mi vida demacrada energía demaciado amor gracias por todo gracias por cada momento cada salida cada comida aunque tome la decisión de luchar en ucrania siempre los llevare en mi corazón ❤️
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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:
(4.9)
Communication:
(5.0)
9 Mar 2025
Left by Workawayer (Luise & Pascal) for host
We stayed with Ellis and Camilla for three weeks in October which meant mainly berry picking and strimming. Even though the tasks seem repetitive we couldn’t have ask for a better first work away experience! The tasks were always clearly explained and laid out, mostly working alongside Ellis but also on our own. We always felt appreciated for our… read more
1 Jan 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Luise & Pascal)
Louisa and Calle were some of the best volunteers we have had. Camilla was away for a lot of the time whilst they were here and the three of us had a really nice time, We were picking medronho, Calle found it difficult as he is colour blind, we have found this make picking red berries in thick green foliage very difficult.
Instead he strimmed a… read more
Instead he strimmed a… read more
(Excellent)
27 Feb 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Raphael)
Raphael is a nice guy, willing to help, will try any task and he asks lots of questions.
He does smoke and also drives. He's physically strong, trustworthy and has a great sense of humour..
His tasks here included strimming, lifting, carrying and he helped Camilla with social media tasks which he's particularly good at.
He is capable if you… read more
He does smoke and also drives. He's physically strong, trustworthy and has a great sense of humour..
His tasks here included strimming, lifting, carrying and he helped Camilla with social media tasks which he's particularly good at.
He is capable if you… read more
(Excellent)
27 Feb 2025
Left by Workawayer (Raphael) for host
It was my first time with WorkAway and I am really thankful to have spent it with Ellis and Camilla. They built a wonderful place in the middle of the mountains. You will learn a lot about building at their place. Ellis has always been super enthusiastic about teaching me anything that has to do with maintaining the land. Camilla is a wonderful… read more
1 Jan 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Pedro)
Pedro stayed here for 3 weeks and is an asset to any project you have. He's a hard worker and a great cook! He was always eager to help from carrying bags from offering Camilla to carry food shopping from the car to washing up. He did many days of strimming when he was here, this was particularly difficult because it was on a steep slope. He also… read more
(Excellent)
27 Dec 2024
Left by Workawayer (Pedro) for host
Ellis y camilla para mi fueron como unos padres para las mejores personas que conozco en mi vida demacrada energía demaciado amor gracias por todo gracias por cada momento cada salida cada comida aunque tome la decisión de luchar en ucrania siempre los llevare en mi corazón ❤️
1 Jan 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Eric)
Eric was a great help to us. He completed all the tasks he was given. He did a lot of strimming on a steep slope which is difficult and he never complained. He also picked medronho. He helped rebuild a 12 metre porch, including tiling. He learned about mixing cement, welding and using different tools.
He was fun to have around , great sense of… read more
He was fun to have around , great sense of… read more
(Excellent)
1 Jan 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Kamilė)
Kamila stayed with us for 2 weeks. She was very helpful and keen to do all the tasks we gave her. She helped pick medronho berries and was a good picker. She also helped Ellis create a cobbled area. She's very creative too.
(Excellent)
11 Jun 2024
Left by Workawayer (Astrid) for host
I've spent a month with Camilla, Ellis, Chuva & Mani and it was a really good experience. The place is totally amazing. What a job they've realised during only few years. I was mainly helping during the retreats and shared this experience with Bella. A beautiful opportunity for me to reconnect with myself, the nature and the calm. Camilla & Ellis… read more
10 Jun 2024
Left by Workawayer (Björn) for host
I had a great experience during my stay with Ellis and Camilla. They were welcoming, generous, and made me feel right at home from the moment I arrived. The work was well-organized, enjoyable, and I had a great time working with Eucalyptus, building shades, stairs, strimming and other chores. The accommodations were comfortable, and I enjoyed good… read more
13 May 2024
Left by Workawayer (Carl) for host
It was amazing to see this place in the mountains of Monchique.
I learned so much from both Camilla and Ellis. About practical things, how to build with eucalyptus trees, about organizing retreats, and about nature in Portugal. Also, the dogs are really lovely and I had the opportunity to get to know some other very nice people and other… read more
I learned so much from both Camilla and Ellis. About practical things, how to build with eucalyptus trees, about organizing retreats, and about nature in Portugal. Also, the dogs are really lovely and I had the opportunity to get to know some other very nice people and other… read more
9 May 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Carl)
Carl is very funny and was amazing, he helped with many tasks and put a lot of effort into some very physical things.
He was using the strimmer/weedwacker a lot and made a great job, he helped me and another volunteer building some things as we prepared for the season.
Thanks for all your help 👍
Recommend 👍
He was using the strimmer/weedwacker a lot and made a great job, he helped me and another volunteer building some things as we prepared for the season.
Thanks for all your help 👍
Recommend 👍
(Excellent)
9 May 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Leoni)
Leoni is lovely, very sweet and helpful, she did a lot of different things but was mainly helping in the garden, with other volunteers she was helping get everything ready for the start of the season and her help was greatly appreciated.
She also made so delicious cake's.👍
Thanks for all your help, we would definitely recommend her as a volunteer.… read more
She also made so delicious cake's.👍
Thanks for all your help, we would definitely recommend her as a volunteer.… read more
(Excellent)
8 May 2024
Left by Workawayer (Leoni) for host
I stayed with Camilla and Ellis for three weeks during april. My two main tasks were weeding the vegetable garden and other beds around the area and cleaning and preparing the accomodations for the retreat guests. I also helped with putting up the belt tents and "making" earth. I worked mostly with Camilla. She explained my tasks to me very well… read more
30 Mar 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Mona & Pierre)
You will be very lucky if you are contacted by Mona and Pierre. They are both very empathetic and have a can do attitude. No task was too big for them and they always were eager to help. Tasks included picking medronho, clearing the land, gardening, weeding, helping with building a roof for the pump house and helping prepare the land for fire… read more
(Excellent)
18 Jan 2024
Left by Workawayer (Mona & Pierre) for host
We arrived in November 23 and stayed 5 weeks at Ellis' and Camilla's place, which is an off-grid dream! Sometimes you forget that you're off-grid, it's impressive what they achieved in 7 years and Ellis is happy to explain everything about the place.
We had multiple tasks like burring pipes for fire prevention, painting an old closet, painting… read more
We had multiple tasks like burring pipes for fire prevention, painting an old closet, painting… read more
28 Feb 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Max)
2 days before due to arrive Max cancelled. That's fine, people change their minds, but he had plenty of opportunity to let us know he was unsure about doing a workaway. Please keep hosts informed.🙏 We have to organise our volunteers in advance.
Thanks
Thanks
(Workawayer cancelled last minute / no-show )
1 Jan 2024
Left by Workawayer (Jasmin & Philipp) for host
The place where Camilla and Ellis live is beautiful and peaceful. They are very friendly and it was interesting to help there with different tasks and see how they built there own offgrid place.
The mainwork was picking medronhos but apart from this we also helped with various tasks around the place. It was nice to use the pizza ofen at our last… read more
The mainwork was picking medronhos but apart from this we also helped with various tasks around the place. It was nice to use the pizza ofen at our last… read more
13 Dec 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Jasmin & Philipp)
Jasmine and Philip we great volunteers, helping out with many tasks, picking medronho, cutting wood, laying pipes and helping cook. Thanks guys for all your help 🙏
(Excellent)
13 Dec 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Ceren)
Nik and Ceren were great volunteers, both were willing and able. They helped with the medronho picking mainly and they did some work in the garden. Both are friendly and helpful.
Thanks guys
Thanks guys
(Excellent)
4 Dec 2023
Left by Workawayer (Hannah) for host
I stayed here for 3 weeks and had the most lovely time!! This was my first workaway experience and I'm grateful to say it was a positive one. I spent most of my time picking olives and medronho but also got to do some cleaning, building, and cooking as well! They have a really beautiful and serene space where the love and care put into everything… read more
18 Nov 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Hannah)
It was great to have Hannah stay with us for 3 weeks, she is a nice positive person who tries her best to help wherever she is needed. She picked medronho and helped build a decking as well as many other things.
We Definitely recommend to have her help you 👍 Thanks Hannah 👍
We Definitely recommend to have her help you 👍 Thanks Hannah 👍
(Excellent)
8 Apr 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (paolosassone7)
Paulo was only with us 1 week and he helped with a few different jobs.
He is a nice guy and was helpful.
1 week wasn't really enough to get to know him and it was a pity he had to leave. Thanks Ellis and Camilla
He is a nice guy and was helpful.
1 week wasn't really enough to get to know him and it was a pity he had to leave. Thanks Ellis and Camilla
(Excellent)
7 Apr 2023
Left by Workawayer (paolosassone7) for host
I had great time with Ellis and Camilla. They are a lovely coupler living off-grid in a beautiful Algarvian valley. I had the pleasure to learn from an experienced builder as Ellis is and taste delicious fresh meals prepared by Camilla. The tasks and information were clear and everything worked great. Highly recommended! Thank you
4 Feb 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Joakim & Lucile)
Joakim and Lucile came to stay for 4 weeks and stayed almost 6, they are the best volunteers you could be lucky enough to get. I cannot believe how fantastic they were. 😍 Joakim is a fantastic chef and Lucile is wonderful, between them there was nothing they didn't do without passion and enthusiasm, 110% all the time. I could write a whole book on… read more
(Excellent)
17 Dec 2022
Left by Workawayer (Joakim & Lucile) for host
Absolute amazing stay.
This was our first ever Workaway experience and we have had such a good time with Camilla and Ellis, which made us feel at home from day one.
We've stayed here for 5 weeks from November to December and have made a great variety of things: Ellis have learned us a lot of new construction skills, by building a new Shepherds'… read more
This was our first ever Workaway experience and we have had such a good time with Camilla and Ellis, which made us feel at home from day one.
We've stayed here for 5 weeks from November to December and have made a great variety of things: Ellis have learned us a lot of new construction skills, by building a new Shepherds'… read more
29 Nov 2022
Left by Workawayer (Marie Christin) for host
Overall I had a great time with Ellis, Camilla, the two dogs, cat and two other volunteers. Though with my injured knees climbing the hills was challenging, Ellis' jokes, the yummy lunches, cuddling the pets and the absolute tranquility made it totally worth it! Plus, I learned a thing or two about building while constructing a sheppard's hut.… read more
29 Nov 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Marie Christin)
Marie was a great volunteer she helped with all sorts of things, picking medronho was her favourite thing 😂.she helped with building a Sheppard's hut which I think was her real favourite thing 👍 her cooking was very good and was great to have here.
(Excellent)
29 Nov 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Marc)
Mark was a really nice helpful guy, he help along with another volunteer and worked well with me and others. 👍
(Excellent)
26 Oct 2022
Left by Workawayer (Mikael) for host
This was my first work away and I had a wonderful stay! The varaity of task to complete was generally different from day to day so kept thing interesting. There's always something that can be done!
The accommodation was clean and comfy and there was always amble amounts of food to cook.
Camilla and Ellis are great hosts. Very thoughtful and… read more
The accommodation was clean and comfy and there was always amble amounts of food to cook.
Camilla and Ellis are great hosts. Very thoughtful and… read more
24 Oct 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Mikael)
Micky is very tall and can reach 2.4m, very handy if you need things held up high🤣 Apart from this he is also a very nice guy, helpful and friendly.
He is in our top 10 of 200 plus volunteers 👍
A great volunteer and fun guy to have around, welcome back anytime. 👍
He is in our top 10 of 200 plus volunteers 👍
A great volunteer and fun guy to have around, welcome back anytime. 👍
(Excellent)
27 Jul 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Suzy)
I approached Suzy as I spotted her profile and was in desperate need of help and Suzy was great.
Suzy is the kind of person who can follow a list of things to get on with and do them well, she also sees what needs to be done - for example she took it upon herself to fix a wire that had come loose.
The tasks during her 10 day stay was quite… read more
Suzy is the kind of person who can follow a list of things to get on with and do them well, she also sees what needs to be done - for example she took it upon herself to fix a wire that had come loose.
The tasks during her 10 day stay was quite… read more
(Excellent)
9 Jul 2022
Left by Workawayer (Anton & Camille) for host
If you have the opportunity to go to Camillas and Ellis place.. DO IT!
They are so amazing and welcoming (although we only met camilla in person because Ellis was in London because of his accident but we still felt like we met him after the 20 face time calls we had with him about every possible question) and we literally felt at home after the… read more
They are so amazing and welcoming (although we only met camilla in person because Ellis was in London because of his accident but we still felt like we met him after the 20 face time calls we had with him about every possible question) and we literally felt at home after the… read more
18 Jun 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Anton & Camille)
Well what can I say except you are very lucky if Camille and Anton come to help you!
They came when I was pretty desperate as my husband had an accident and I was looking after 6 hectares of land alone.
They both have a can do attitude and can even see what needs doing without any prompting. Anton is a carpenter by trade and would happily fix… read more
They came when I was pretty desperate as my husband had an accident and I was looking after 6 hectares of land alone.
They both have a can do attitude and can even see what needs doing without any prompting. Anton is a carpenter by trade and would happily fix… read more
(Excellent)
18 Jun 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Lauren)
Loved having Lauren here, she was only here for 1 week and came out to rescue us as my husband had an Accident and I desperately needed help here. She dived straight in, painting signs, washing up, getting the bell tents ready for a retreat, watering etc . She really raised the energy with her passion for life. I hope we see her again soon!
(Excellent)
18 Jun 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Jette)
Jette stayed with us for 2 weeks. She was very helpful and had a can do attitude.
She assisted me with cooking by preparing brunches at a retreat, I'd send her recipes and she produced exactly what I had asked for. She also cooked for the other workawayers. She helped with making bell-tents up, which she did beautifully and keeping common areas… read more
She assisted me with cooking by preparing brunches at a retreat, I'd send her recipes and she produced exactly what I had asked for. She also cooked for the other workawayers. She helped with making bell-tents up, which she did beautifully and keeping common areas… read more
(Excellent)
18 Jun 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Christine)
Having Christine here was a dream. She's an amazing Gardner and planted lots of veggies, and seeds which she patiently watered for hours!
She also helped in many other ways. She helped us during a retreat, washing up after dinner, helping with food preparation, laying the table, cleaning the pool, planting plants, painting signs.
Christine has… read more
She also helped in many other ways. She helped us during a retreat, washing up after dinner, helping with food preparation, laying the table, cleaning the pool, planting plants, painting signs.
Christine has… read more
(Excellent)
16 Jun 2022
Left by Workawayer (Christine) for host
thank you Camilla and Ellis. this was my first experience as a workawayer and i will definitely recommend it to others. you are heartwarming, tense, clear and honest. I enjoyed managing the garden, water and various other things. the garden is doing well, nature is generous. I hope that workawayers who come after me continue the maintenance and… read more
4 May 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Jorien)
It was a real pleasure having Jorien stay here and help us.
She was with us for two weeks and traveled from Netherlands to southern Portugal by public transport, having taken a break in her job.
She helped with gardening, painting signs, clearing the land, building a swimming pool and a pizza oven.
She got on well with our other workawayers and… read more
She was with us for two weeks and traveled from Netherlands to southern Portugal by public transport, having taken a break in her job.
She helped with gardening, painting signs, clearing the land, building a swimming pool and a pizza oven.
She got on well with our other workawayers and… read more
(Excellent)
12 Apr 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Klara)
I was great to have Klara stay with us for around 3 weeks. We came by each other last minute and she was a fantastic help and we enjoyed her company. Klara and I did many small projects, a raised bed, some gardening, clearing out the pool ready for a liner, paintings an old cupboard, cooking. She is very independent and a pleasure to have here.… read more
(Excellent)
3 Jan 2022
Left by Workawayer (Alex & Salome ) for host
This workaway experience was our very first one and we feel so lucky to have had it in this amazing place. They both made us feel at home from the very beginning. Regarding work: we did a lot of Madronio picking witch sadly wasn't the best this year but we had lots of fun doing so. We do miss it a lot actually😅
We also did cement mixing. That… read more
We also did cement mixing. That… read more
3 Jan 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Alex & Salome )
Fantastic, Solome and Alex were no doubt one of the best couple volunteers we have had, we have had a lot of volunteers and a lot of couples and these two might be the best 🤔 I don't think that I need to tell you what they did just that everything was done with thought, smiles and energy. Thanks guys ❤️
(Excellent)
11 Dec 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Riccardo & Arianna)
Ricardo and Ariana were a lovely couple, always helpful and attentive to what was required here.
They helped pick medronho, the learnt how to mix concrete and used these skills to help repair septic tank, to make a base for a pizza oven and a swimming pool base. They also helped move the solar water heater onto the roof. They always kept the… read more
They helped pick medronho, the learnt how to mix concrete and used these skills to help repair septic tank, to make a base for a pizza oven and a swimming pool base. They also helped move the solar water heater onto the roof. They always kept the… read more
(Excellent)
8 Dec 2021
Left by Workawayer (Riccardo & Arianna) for host
We spent the entire month of november with Ellis and Camille in their special and peaceful Rural Escape surrounded by an INCREDIBLE landscape.
We loved everything about our staying, we learned a lot of new skills; Ellis is a great worker and teacher too, and was also very patient and kind in explaining us how to work, especially because it was our… read more
We loved everything about our staying, we learned a lot of new skills; Ellis is a great worker and teacher too, and was also very patient and kind in explaining us how to work, especially because it was our… read more
31 Oct 2021
Left by Workawayer (Noor) for host
We really enjoyed our stay with Ellis and Camilla. The location is very peaceful and quiet and amazing views! The surroundings are beautiful, would be perfect for hiking, but great for relaxing too, which option we chose mostly. We helped with picking olives and fruits, and clearing the land. Which was sometimes physically demanding, especially in… read more
31 Oct 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Noor)
Gwyn and Noor were great volunteers, they stayed with us for 2 weeks and helped with all sorts of tasks, from picking olives to preparation for a new swimming pool.
They were great company and the dogs were quite fond of them ❤️
Thanks girls, Camilla and Ellis,👍
They were great company and the dogs were quite fond of them ❤️
Thanks girls, Camilla and Ellis,👍
(Excellent)
20 Aug 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Erin & Solomon)
It was a real pleasure having Solomon and Erin stay with us for four months (or 104 days rlto be exact!)
From the moment they arrived they showed enthusiasm for what we were doing and eagerly got involved, it felt more like having friends with us than workawayers as we got on so well.
They helped us with all kinds of things - including planting… read more
From the moment they arrived they showed enthusiasm for what we were doing and eagerly got involved, it felt more like having friends with us than workawayers as we got on so well.
They helped us with all kinds of things - including planting… read more
(Excellent)
18 Aug 2021
Left by Workawayer (Erin & Solomon) for host
We spent 4 months working with Ellis and Camilla. It truly was a wonderful experience and difficult to sum it up in a feedback section, as it really felt that we became like family as opposed to workawayers!
Right from the beginning, Ellis was a brilliant teacher - funny, spiritied and patient. Honestly, there's nothing he can't do! If you are… read more
Right from the beginning, Ellis was a brilliant teacher - funny, spiritied and patient. Honestly, there's nothing he can't do! If you are… read more
20 Jul 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Antonio)
If anyone has Antonio apply to help you then you are very lucky. Antonio stayed with us for just over two months, he has superior knowledge of gardening that has come from a long line of mountain people in northern Italy, what he doesn't know he'll study and find solutions. I am really hoping he'll come back here again in the autumn.
Antonio has… read more
Antonio has… read more
(Excellent)
24 May 2021
Left by Workawayer (Mary) for host
We spent a lovely 3 weeks with Camilla and Ellis in their beautiful retreat about 20 minutes from Monchique. Right of the bat when Ellis came to get us in town, he was so funny, kind and sincere and we really liked his energy which made us feel very comfortable driving out to the middle of the mountains with him! He is quite an impressive person… read more
23 May 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Mary)
Maria and Paul stayed with us for 3 weeks and helped us out with loads of tasks, repairing the water tank, building gabions and filling them, ramming some earth walls for a new pond, it was tough physical work and apart from Maria's request for a gardening cushion 🤣 were great to have here. Thanks guys👍
(Excellent)
15 Feb 2021
Left by Workawayer (Elsa & Nikolai) for host
We stayed with Ellis and Camilla for a bit over a month around the holidays. We have never had a better stay than this! They are so welcoming, warm and caring.
We learned a lot from the different tasks we had and Ellis was always there to check up on and help us. Sometimes we worked together with him and other times with other workawayers. We… read more
We learned a lot from the different tasks we had and Ellis was always there to check up on and help us. Sometimes we worked together with him and other times with other workawayers. We… read more
26 Jan 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Elsa & Nikolai)
Elsa and Nikolai stayed with us for just over a month Dec/Jan they are a great couple, helpful, skillful, easy going and fun. They helped us out with many things, one of their jobs was to make gabions and fill them. Theirs were the best we have ever made, They taught me a thing about filling them👍 They cooked delicious Swedish and Danish bread,… read more
(Excellent)
4 Feb 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (janebrown)
We loved hosting Jane here. she waa an amazingly upbeat and empathetic person who always looked on the bright side of life, but in an understanding way, which made her a great team member.
The weather was pretty awful for the month she was here, lots of rain and the work was outside and fairly monotonous picking medronho, clearing land and making… read more
The weather was pretty awful for the month she was here, lots of rain and the work was outside and fairly monotonous picking medronho, clearing land and making… read more
(Excellent)
1 Feb 2021
Left by Workawayer (janebrown) for host
... I had a great, exciting, adventurous time with Ellis and Camilla ... it was my first workaway and I stayed for 5 weeks ... picking the medrohon felt like meditative work for me ... I loved being outside all day ... the cute little van with the oven is just amazing, whenever you left the property you never was alone..the lovely dogs always went… read more
5 Jan 2021
Left by Workawayer (Sarah) for host
This is a very late feedback as I'm just reappearing on workaway but it's actually the best and most deserved one. I stayed at Ellis's and Camilla's in August 2019 for six weeks and had hard time to leave ! It was a wonderful experience, the kind you're truly searching for when you travel with workaway. The place is really charming, the… read more
13 Oct 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Sarah)
Sarah originally was meant to stay for two weeks but ended up staying for 6 weeks. She was a real pleasure and easy to have around. Sarah's main job was ramming earth for a mud wall we were building, this was not an easy job, especially as it was August and very hot in South Portugal. But she worked hard and never complained, in fact she even… read more
(Excellent)
15 Dec 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (LukasundNadja)
Lucas came with Ellie and they stayed 2 weeks, Lucas was a great volunteer, fun and hard working. We were busy picking medronho and it wasn't until his last day that I realized that he was so good. He had been great through his time with us but when I gave him a task to do by himself he came into his own. I just wish I had had more time to… read more
(Excellent)
15 Dec 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Ellie)
Ellie came and stayed with us for 2 weeks, it was a rainy time but she was out there in the rain helping. An excellent cook and fun easy going person you will be glad to have around.
We have been very lucky to have such great volunteers, Ellie and Lucas were definitely a pair of them 👍 thanks for all your help 👍
We have been very lucky to have such great volunteers, Ellie and Lucas were definitely a pair of them 👍 thanks for all your help 👍
(Excellent)
11 Dec 2020
Left by Workawayer (Ellie) for host
We spent a fun couple of weeks here. Well-structured working days; two awesome dogs; nice communal mealtimes (from a well-stocked, vegan-friendly kitchen!); lots of laughter with the hosts and other volunteers; and plenty to explore in our free time. Ellis and Camilla are very friendly and down to earth. You can take part in Camilla's morning yoga… read more
8 Dec 2020
Left by Workawayer (Andrea) for host
Really nice Experience. They are so beautiful and interesting people. I recommend this place for everyone!
Thanks for everything, hope to see you again!
Thanks for everything, hope to see you again!
3 Dec 2020
Left by Workawayer (Julia) for host
It was my first workaway experience and I can really recommend it. Ellis and Camilla are such lovely people. The medrohno picking is meditative and fun if you are kind of competitive for breaking the record. It‘s a very special place that the two create there. A peaceful place in this crazy times. If you want to see a more quiet and local part of… read more
30 Nov 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Julia)
Julia was a great help, she picked medronho and is still this year's record holder for most picked in 5hrs👍 it was a pleasure to have her here and she got on well with everyone. Thanks Julia👍 we would definitely recommend her.👍👍
(Excellent)
2 Dec 2020
Left by Workawayer (Elliot) for host
Quite simply some of the most enjoyable weeks of my life were spent here with Ellis and Camilla. I wholeheartedly recommend staying with them if you can. Their attitude and personalities shine through at all times. Even when storm Barbera came and conquered, we fought back with smiles on our faces!
I adored staying in the quiet campervan with… read more
I adored staying in the quiet campervan with… read more
30 Nov 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Elliot)
It was great to have Elliot here, he is super helpful, a great fun guy to have around and easy going, I really enjoyed having him here it was a cross between a son and a friend. We would have him come back anytime. Good luck and thanks. Ellis and Camilla
(Excellent)
1 Dec 2020
Left by Workawayer (Catarina) for host
It was great to stay with ellis, great person and always keen to share his knowledge! It was a short but very good experience, he knows how to welcome people and make them feel at home:) I couldn't meet camila but I only heard wonderful things about her :) the place is very peaceful and the locals are super nice. I wish I could have stayed longer… read more
30 Nov 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Catarina)
It was great to have Caterina stay here, she is a great fun and helpful person, we would have liked her to have stayed longer ☹️ Thanks for all your help.
(Excellent)
17 Oct 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Katharina & Markus)
Kat and Marcus must rank number one in our list of workaways. We have had fantastic volunteers all through the 3 years we have been hosting but I think they are just that extra bit special 👍 kat is a fantastic cook, nothing is to much trouble, Marcus, or should I say The Marvelous Marcus is a dream to have helping, he can do almost anything, is… read more
(Excellent)
26 Sep 2020
Left by Workawayer (Katharina & Markus) for host
Words can hardly discribe our experience at Camilla & Ellis paradice. We stayed there for 1 month in which 2 weeks we were looking after the place while the 2 went back to the UK and even though it felt like we grew together into a little family.
We are forever thankful for this experience and for the trust in letting us work so independendly. We… read more
We are forever thankful for this experience and for the trust in letting us work so independendly. We… read more
10 Mar 2020
Left by Workawayer (Josephine) for host
I really enjoyed working for Camilla & Ellis, they were very professional in the way that the work is organised.
The meals that Camilla cooked were lovely and they are both really interesting people and easy to get along with.
They live in an idyllic location and both work extremely hard, I wish them all the best for the future.
The meals that Camilla cooked were lovely and they are both really interesting people and easy to get along with.
They live in an idyllic location and both work extremely hard, I wish them all the best for the future.
14 Jan 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Josephine)
Jo was one of our too workawayers. She blew us away with her willingness to get involved in all aspects of the project, from mixing cement to picking medrinoho. The mixing cement required a lot of strength as she also wheeled the cement down a steep muddy path using a wheel barrow. She never complained and was always positive and optimistic.
She's… read more
She's… read more
(Excellent)
3 Mar 2020
Left by Workawayer (Sam) for host
My stay with Camilla and Ellis was beyond amazing. Camilla is the sweetest person in the world and also the best yoga teacher I’ve ever had, and can also make you want to be vegetarian because her cooking was so yummy! Ellis is patient and has so much knowledge about electricity (with slight deviations from wiring colors) and everything… read more
1 Mar 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Sam)
Sam was an absolute joy to have help us here. Not only is he a brilliant musician, playing the fiddle and guitar, he is also a really hard worker, is totally trustworthy, knowledgeable and interested in learning new things and he's a good cook, Sam spent three weeks and in that time he assisted Ellis in building the house. This included cutting… read more
(Excellent)
8 Feb 2020
Left by Workawayer (Joel) for host
It has been a real pleasure to come help in Ellis and Camilla land. They are very welcoming hosts and they take really good care of their volunteers. In the days off they offered us lifts to different activities like the beach, visit some nerby towns and had some good time at the Cabeço. It gave us a great insight on the lifestyle you would have… read more
5 Feb 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Joel)
Joel and Maria came together as a couple to help us here. They were hard workers and got involved in a variety of projects but specifically attending our land. They are keen permaculturists and have a lot of knowledge between them which they're happy to share. They cleared the land of stones and levelled it off and planted lots of seeds and… read more
(Excellent)
5 Feb 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Maria Rita)
Maria and Joel came together as a couple to help us here. They were hard workers and got involved in a variety of projects but specifically attending our land. They are keen permaculturists and have a lot of knowledge between them which they're happy to share. They cleared the land of stones and levelled it off and planted lots of seeds and… read more
(Excellent)
5 Feb 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Lucy & Paul)
Lucy and Paul are the dream team! They stayed with us for nearly 2 weeks and in that time they both got stuck into every task we gave them and did an excellent job! From clearing drains to clearing land, mixing concrete and laying down foundations for a walk, cutting down trees and stripping them, making gabions and helping build a new wall,… read more
(Excellent)
21 Dec 2019
Left by Workawayer (Björn) for host
I can recommend doing a workaway with Camilla and Ellis to the fullest. Spending a whole month in their little valley was truely an amazing experience. Not only are these 2 really good people, providing you with amazing food and a feeling of being home away from home. They manage to make your stay an amazing time with their warm and welcoming… read more
16 Dec 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Björn)
Björn stayed with us for a month. He was very helpful. His main tasks were helping Ellis with some building work. He happily got on with the work and did a good job. He also helped pick Medronho and didn't complain about the miserable weather we had at the time. He worked both on his own and in a team.
Björn also looked after our place with a few… read more
Björn also looked after our place with a few… read more
(Excellent)
16 Dec 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Ilona Maria & Janer)
Ilona and Janner were perfect guests and helpers. A lot of the time it was raining and muddy here but they never complained and were always upbeat. Much of their time was picking medronho a local berry, they picked loads!
Ilona led a shamanic drum moon journey which was amazing.
Janner always shared his knowledge of foods and healthy living which… read more
Ilona led a shamanic drum moon journey which was amazing.
Janner always shared his knowledge of foods and healthy living which… read more
(Excellent)
11 Dec 2019
Left by Workawayer (Triin & Karl) for host
We spent only two weeks there and had a great time. Our main job was picking medronho and making food with the others. Ellis and Camilla are very friendly and also have a great sense of humor which always makes the day more fun. We especially loved their two dogs and we even enjoyed our time together with the cat who can be a bit moody but kept us… read more
7 Dec 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Triin & Karl)
Triin and karl were great volunteers, bright, funny, helpful and respectful. They both helped in whatever way we needed and were mostly picking medronho. They were great with the dogs and cat who Triin especially loved. Thanks guys you are welcome to come back. Ellis and Camilla
(Excellent)
22 Sep 2019
Left by Workawayer (Diana) for host
I'm a bit late with this one, but it doesn't mean I forgot my experience at the retreat in Portugal! It was my first workaway this summer and I couldn't have asked for better hosts. Ellis and Camilla are always cheerful and fun and they're so passionate about their project, it's just admirable. With them, you will stay in the pure and peaceful… read more
17 Aug 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Diana)
Diana stayed with us for 3 weeks. We were supposed to have other Workaways here too but they cancelled so she was on her own for the first week and a half, this didn't seem to bother her at all, even though the work she was doing demanded a lot of strength as she was helping build a house, mixing cement and carrying heavy loads. The work was messy… read more
(Excellent)
20 Aug 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Pedro Henrique)
You are very lucky if you host Pedro and Katrina (Gianelli). They are both such lovely people, they're incredibly helpful and worked really hard at ours.
The work was pretty tough as they had to make a rammed earth wall made from mud. This involved many hours raking the earth, removing stones and rocks and then ramming it, this was all done in the… read more
The work was pretty tough as they had to make a rammed earth wall made from mud. This involved many hours raking the earth, removing stones and rocks and then ramming it, this was all done in the… read more
(Excellent)
19 Aug 2019
Left by Workawayer (Pedro Henrique) for host
One of the best experiences on workaway if not the best hahahaha Ellis and Camila message us by last-minute and was really a blessing! We felt really welcomed from the first minute untill the last, Ellis is super fun and makes the hard work more easy, and Camilla with her kindness and yoga classes was the best way to start the day!
We helped at… read more
We helped at… read more
11 Mar 2019
Left by Workawayer (Marvin & Jannik) for host
Ellis and Camilla are two lovely people. From the beginning we have felt very welcomed.
We planned on staying for the entirety of February but different reasons led to Jannik only staying for a little over a week and Marvin staying for 3 weeks in total and this was not a problem with these two at all. Camilla taught us many things about Yoga and… read more
We planned on staying for the entirety of February but different reasons led to Jannik only staying for a little over a week and Marvin staying for 3 weeks in total and this was not a problem with these two at all. Camilla taught us many things about Yoga and… read more
1 Mar 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Marvin & Jannik)
We loved having Marvin and Jannik here. They were very easy going and good workers, throwing themselves into whatever you presented to them. They work well together but equally are happy working with others. Jannik stayed for just over a week and Marvin for over 3 weeks.
They helped with building a wall, a stone path, landscaping, fixing our… read more
They helped with building a wall, a stone path, landscaping, fixing our… read more
(Excellent)
3 Mar 2019
Left by Workawayer (Catia) for host
This was my first workaway experience and I couldn't expect a better one. Ellis and Camila are very welcoming and friendly, always ready to help with any problem. Camilla is a good cooker and I liked a lot to do yoga with her. Ellis gave me diverse tasks since planting trees, painting signs or helping in the construction; it was nice working with… read more
1 Mar 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Catia)
Catia was a great volunteer and with the added bonus of being Portuguese!!! She stayed with us for 4 weeks and was willing to get involved in all aspects of the project, helping with a wall we were building, clearing land and creating a raised bed for a vegetable patch and painting lots of beautiful signs for us. She was also great at helping us… read more
(Excellent)
1 Mar 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Jason)
Jason came and helpedvus for just over 3 weeks. He's the kind of guy that in England we call a real 'grafter' in other words he's not afraid if working hard and will give you a lot of his energy and time. He's a wonderful person to have around, he's a kind and gentle person with a lot of energy. We're going to miss him.
He helped make a new… read more
He helped make a new… read more
(Excellent)
28 Feb 2019
Left by Workawayer (Jason) for host
I stayed with Ellis and Camila for 3vweeks this was my first workaway experience wow this was a amazing experience for me we had yoga with Camila also there was lovely food every day Ellis would give us various tasks each day Ellis is a man with alot of building knowledge and it took me out of my comfort zone and i was learning new things which I… read more
11 Feb 2019
Left by Workawayer (Joshua ) for host
My time here was absoulutly beautiful, living so close to the land and putting time and energy into worthwhile projects gave me a renewed sense of purpose. Ellis is a wonderful person to work with, understanding and efficient.he pushes a good pace whilst teaching you things the whole way, he's a wealth of information and I took great pleasure in… read more
18 Jan 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Joshua )
Josh is an excellent guy, helpful, intelligent, caring and strong. Puts in 110%. He has helped me building rammed earth walls, neither of us had done it before! Repairing water tanks and solar arrays. He learnt to drive a mini digger and cut down with a chainsaw and strip trees. He can cook a decent meal and wash up! Look after dogs, help build… read more
(Excellent)
2 Feb 2019
Left by Workawayer (Shaked) for host
I stayed for the whole month of January at Camilla & Ellis' beautiful and remote land. It was my very first Workaway experience so I didn't exactly know what to expect. This place is, without a doubt, perfect for first-timers. Camilla & Ellis are so welcoming, thoughtful, and understanding, and would go a long way to make you feel comfortable and… read more
21 Jan 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Shaked)
It was so lovely having Samuel Shaked here, we are his first hosts and although he'd just arrived from NYC to Portugal he threw himself straight into work here. Shaked has a sweet and sensitive nature (in a positive way). He gets involved in everything you ask and he's also very helpful always offering to help carry shopping etc.
Shaked helped… read more
Shaked helped… read more
(Excellent)
30 Jan 2019
Left by Workawayer (Radka) for host
I stayed with Camilla and Ellis for just under a month and I do not regret a minute of it. Both are very welcoming, friendly, open minded and full of wisdom. When I stayed with them I soon felt a part of a family. Camilla not only has been a very good host in terms of cooking and accommodation but also an understanding ear to one's problems and… read more
28 Jan 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Radka)
Radka stayed with us for 4 weeks. She is quite a character, a little different and very funny; she enjoys her independence, so it's been great that she has her own campervan. She likes to be given a project to get immersed in to and puts her whole heart and effort into it. She is creative and brimming with ideas. Most of the work we were doing… read more
(Excellent)
22 Jan 2019
Left by Workawayer (Samuel) for host
Dès mon arrivée à cet endroit, Camilla et Ellis m'ont accueilli chaleureusement et à bras ouverts. Très vite, j'ai eu l'impression de faire partie du projet et de la vision qu'ils partagent.
Ellis était toujours prêt à partager ses connaissances sur une vaste gamme de choses ; energie renouvelable, construction en général, jardinage et soudure, ce… read more
Ellis était toujours prêt à partager ses connaissances sur une vaste gamme de choses ; energie renouvelable, construction en général, jardinage et soudure, ce… read more
21 Jan 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Samuel)
It was so lovely having Samuel (Fernandes) here. He had his beautiful, calm, well traveled dog (Visoko) with him, the dog has even been to Guadalupe! We have 2 dogs ourselves and they welcomed him into the family, playing well together. Samuel is a responsible dog owner.
Samuel helped with clearing the land, cutting trees, stripping the bark which… read more
Samuel helped with clearing the land, cutting trees, stripping the bark which… read more
(Excellent)
2 Jan 2019
Left by Workawayer (Joy & Conner) for host
Ellis and Camilla were wonderful hosts during our three week stay on their beautiful property. We came to cook for two of their retreats, and had a great experience doing so. They are very kind, energetic, and generous people committed to enjoying life and living fully, and their positivity certainly brushed off on everyone else! Our… read more
5 Nov 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Joy & Conner)
Joy and Connor stayed with us for 3 weeks primarily to cook at two of our retreats. They are fantastic vegan cooks creating some amazing dishes that our guests loved. Especially their outstanding sushi. They kept the kitchen clean and were organised.
After the retreat they decided to stay a little longer and helped build a dry stone wall. They… read more
After the retreat they decided to stay a little longer and helped build a dry stone wall. They… read more
(Excellent)
8 Nov 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Ciaran & Jade)
We had Ciaran, Jade and Dylan stay with us for 1 week and overall our experience was a good one. They were always prompt in the mornings and willing to help in whatever tasks that were presented to them. They helped build a dry stone wall, work with cement, help load and unload and clear land. Dylan is a talented musician and although Ciaran and… read more
(Excellent)
1 Nov 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Sam)
Well what can I say about Sam other than what a lovely and helpful young man he is. Whilst he was here he was happy to attend to any tasks given. He helped build stone steps even in soaring temperatures and was able to be left on his own to get on with them. He loves animals and would look after our dogs. Whilst here we had a few dramas, when our… read more
(Excellent)
19 Jul 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Rosemary)
Rosie and her partner Joe spent 3 weeks with us. Rosie had initially come to help cook at our retreat but she also helped in many different areas including helping renovate our ruin which involved pointing the stone work with lime render and making a wall and shade out of bamboo for the yoga platform. Rosie is an excellent cook and worked hard… read more
(Excellent)
21 Jun 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Ruud)
Rudd was great, he came for a week and stayed nearly 3. He is helpful, considerate and fun. He was always willing to get involved in all different areas of the project including gardening,cement mixing, cooking, laying a floor, taking care of the dogs. He even made a stunning hand basin for our outdoor toilet. Thanks Ruud. We wish him well in his… read more
(Excellent)
14 Jun 2018
Left by Workawayer (Fabio) for host
We felt right at home on this amazing property with these beautiful people, Camilla and Ellis. Their enthusiasm for their property and their vision are really inspiring! We are extremely grateful for the opportunity to help them rebuild a ruin, planting, taking care of the plants and for the time they spent introducing us to the area and community… read more
30 May 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Fabio)
Fabio and Sofia were absolutely fantastic.
They gave 110% were great cooks, helpful and knowledgeable. Thanks Guys for all your hard work and good company. :thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup:
They gave 110% were great cooks, helpful and knowledgeable. Thanks Guys for all your hard work and good company. :thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup:
(Excellent)
11 May 2018
Left by Workawayer (AFreeSpirit) for host
We have had most wonderful zen time working for Ellis and Camilla. The retreat itself is so peaceful and beautiful set in the mountains. We had a bell tent it was probably the most comfortable tent experience we have ever had.
The work was fun, varied and we love working for Ellis and Camilla. You work hard but nowhere near as hard as Ellis who… read more
The work was fun, varied and we love working for Ellis and Camilla. You work hard but nowhere near as hard as Ellis who… read more
11 May 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (AFreeSpirit)
What an awesome couple Keith and Gillian are. It was a real pleasure to have them help us. We were so busy when they arrived as we were preparing for our first retreat and had a full house with family and kids etc... but this did not sway them at all, instead they simply got on with any tasks that were given and any tasks they saw needed doing.… read more
(Excellent)
11 May 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Cloé & Jade)
It was a real pleasure to have Cloe stay with us for 3 weeks. She was a real gift and nothing swayed her. It was a particularly busy time as we had our first yoga retreat here. She helped with setting up, cleaning sunrise lodge, making beds, putting up bell tents. During the retreat she assisted the cook and served the guests and then during the… read more
(Excellent)
18 Apr 2018
Left by Workawayer (Jonathan & Steffen) for host
Very great place with very nice people!
27 Mar 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Jonathan & Steffen)
Jonathan and Steffen stayed with us for just over 4 weeks. It wasn't the easiest experience for them as it was very wet, windy but they didn't complain and worked outside clearing the land of bush and burning it for fire prevention. They also worked togeher to make a large weaved sunshade area out of Eucalyptus trees and spent a lot of time… read more
(Excellent)
3 Mar 2018
Left by Workawayer (Heather) for host
We had a great 3 or so weeks at Ellis’ and Camilla’s place, there was lots of hard work to be done but had a good laugh along the way! They are very generous and understanding people with big hearts, and really went out of their way to help us with our van problems. On the weekends they were always happy to take us out on trips for the day, and… read more
3 Mar 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Heather)
We really enjoyed having Heather and Karim here. Heather laughs a lot, which is lovely. They came last minute and immediately got involved in all manner of things. From gardening to building walls, to cooking and carrying heavy loads. Karim is an electrician /plumber and has lots of skills to offer. He was very knowledgeable and was enthusiastic… read more
(Excellent)
2 Mar 2018
Left by Workawayer (Isabel) for host
I visited Camilla, Ellis, Boo the Cat and Mani the Dog for three weeks back in July 2017. It was my first workaway experience and I felt so lucky to have had such a positive one. I loved starting my day with yoga, overlooking the gorgeous valley view. The work was varied and super interesting - definitely a great opportunity to get hands on and… read more
10 Nov 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Isabel)
We absolutely loved having Isabel come and join us on our project. She stayed for 3 weeks and became our project cook. She's a fantastic vegetarian/vegan cook and every meal felt like we were going out to a restaurant! Aswell as cooking she was also keen to help on other tasks and helped clear land, creating terraces for growing veggies and was… read more
(Excellent)
24 Feb 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Laura & Guiom)
You are very very lucky if you decide to have Laura and Guiom come and stay. They are possibly the loveliest people we've had come and help us. They offered so much, their humour, their lightness, their generosity and that's just the beginning ...
They were always eager to help and atask was never too much for them. They helped build shades for… read more
They were always eager to help and atask was never too much for them. They helped build shades for… read more
(Excellent)
19 Feb 2018
Left by Workawayer (Laura & Guiom) for host
For a first Workaway experience for me (Guiom) I could not have had better : it over passed my expectations !
The place is beautiful, sunrise lodge is lovely to stay in, the solar shower is just great, the food was delicious... and more importantly, Ellis and Camilla are great people to be around! Camilla does the best yoga sessions ever, with or… read more
The place is beautiful, sunrise lodge is lovely to stay in, the solar shower is just great, the food was delicious... and more importantly, Ellis and Camilla are great people to be around! Camilla does the best yoga sessions ever, with or… read more
22 Nov 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Anna & Sebastian)
It was great having Anna, Sebastian and Naomi stay here. They were very helpful, Anna is a good cook and artist. They both like working with their hands and made some great wooden hooks for us. Sebastian was very handy for Ellis, who was doing a lot of building work at the time, and Sebastian didn't mind helping with the heavy tasks. Both were… read more
(Excellent)
11 Nov 2017
Left by Workawayer (Anna & Sebastian) for host
We stayed the last 2 1/2 weeks and had a really great time at their beautiful place! It's very quiet and peaceful, surrounded by a lot of mountains and trees. Ellis and Camilla are very welcoming. Ellis is a talented craftsmen and we learned a lot from him. Besides he showed us baking sourdough bread, which is the best bread ever! Camilla is a… read more
10 Nov 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Stephanie)
Elise was great to have around. She helped with many tasks and we're especially grateful for her for dog sitting our new dog, which she did often. She made some beautiful jewellery and played her shamanic drum. Thanks Elise for all your help. Camilla and Ellis Xxx
(Excellent)
10 Nov 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Gemma)
It was wonderful to have Gemms work with us on our project here She works hard and particularly enjoys construction. She worked with another workaway building steps out of mud for the yoga platform, which they both completed before leaving. Gemma also helped Ellis build the much needed patio space for the dining table. She shared cooking and… read more
(Excellent)
8 Nov 2017
Left by Workawayer (Gemma) for host
My time spent at this workaway were some of the best days of my year. Camilla and Ellis were so welcoming and enthusiastic from day one. I arrived with another workawayer Eva and was greeted also by their beautiful dog Mani, their cat and different visitors who loved to come by! It really is a retreat, surrounded by the mountains of Monchique with… read more
10 Nov 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Rugile)
Rugile and Asta were a dream to have around. They helped in whatever way they could. Clearing the land, cooking Lithuanian beetroot, Kefir soup. Making bread. They also had lots of creative ideas for planting flowers and herbs. At night Rugile would play her ukulele and sing beautiful songs under the stars. It was a pure joy to share a week with… read more
(Excellent)
29 Sep 2017
Left by Workawayer (Rugile) for host
Oh, I can not describe how amazin' it was staying with Camilla! and with Many and Boo and with Ellis on skype :D me and my friend Asta we stayed a week, it was short but we were welcomed as a part of the family! Camilla was open for all ideas, we discussed a lot about different issues, we had a possibility to visit the beaches of Algarve, both… read more
10 Nov 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Eva)
It was wonderful to have Eva work with us on our project. She's a hard worker and worked with another workaway building steps out of mud for the yoga platform, which they both completed before leaving. Eva also helped Ellis build the patio space. She shared cooking and cleaning tasks too. Eva is a pleasure to have around and we recommend her for… read more
(Excellent)
10 Nov 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Maxime)
Maxime was great, very funny and helpful. We had a great time with him here. We prepared and erected a swimming pool, we built rammed Earth steps and much more. Maxime and I went flying and Maxime showed me his great ground handling skills:thinking::joy:. We did shamanic drumming together :joy::joy::joy::heart_eyes:
(Excellent)
28 Jul 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Lina & María)
Info notice: Workawayer cancelled stay or there was a no show at the last minute
(Workawayer cancelled last minute / no-show )
19 Jun 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Danilo & Charlotte)
You and Charlotte were the best of the best. Thanks for everything. :heart_eyes::heart_eyes::heart_eyes:
(Excellent)
19 Jun 2017
Left by Workawayer (Danilo & Charlotte) for host
We spent an unforgettable month here. They were incredibly welcoming and made us feel part of the family from day one. Danilo had to spend some unexpected time away during the first week and they were very understanding with this too. The work was varied and always well explained, usually we worked alongside Ellis who is a fantastic, trusting and… read more
22 Apr 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Todd)
We really enjoyed having Todd come and stay with us. He spent 2 weeks with us at our place in Foz do Carvalhal, Algarve. He was a real grafter and shared lots of his knowledge about trees and plants with us. Thanks Todd for all your hard work.
(Excellent)
