Profile information
Host rating
80 %
Last replied
29 Aug 2024
Reply rate
57.9 %
Usually responds within 2 days
Feedback
85
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Details
Description
Here's the deal...
In exchange for your time, labour and skills i contract to provide you with;
Board and lodging
The chance to be an integral part of a self sustaining, environmentally sound project
The chance to experience new things and learn new skills
The opportunity to take part in local culture and share your own cultural perspective with us
You will be staying in the small village of Leorza where I need help with the running of the house, garden and livestock.
The help needed here is extremely varied and we hope that you will feel free to contribute whatever your particular skill might be :)
This a very rural location which offers ample opportunity for climbing, walking, biking etc..
Types of help and learning opportunities
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Animal Care
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
This is an opportunity for you to live in the middle of Europe’s largest oak forest, to feed chickens, maintain the garden, walk with donkeys, manipulate bees and basically just be with nature. The volunteer work is sometimes hard but always rewarding.
Locally there is a really very vibrant and considering its size culturally very rich, community. You will have ample opportunity to enjoy the curiosities of Basque culture and to learn Basque and Spanish
Help
We need one person to help with various tasks around this house
In winter months we are more likely to need two people and work focuses on building projects
The help needed is varied and would include;
1 This year I will be running a number of research projects on honey bees. You do not need prior experience. If you have experience in video/photography that would be interesting.
2 I often have construction projects on the go. Experience in construction helps but don't worry if you haven't worked in this area. You do need to be practically minded and good with your hands though.
3 General help in an ecological garden. Tasks typically include; weeding, watering, harvesting
4 General help around the house.
5 Helping with the donkeys. Walking, grooming, feeding etc..
At the moment we manage to do all this ourselves and don't intend to dump you with all the worst tasks. Rather it would be a case of distributing the tasks and changing to avoid getting stuck with the less attractive ones.
I hope that we offer a space here where you feel free to offer your particular skills and where you don't worry about what you don't know.
YOU NEED TO BE AUTONOMOUS AND PRACTICAL.
You won't be left on your own but you need to be able to show initiative and just get on with stuff.
For your benefit and ours we would have a one week trial period. If during that time you find that things aren't what you expected or there is some sort of incompatibility we all go our separate ways with a smile.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Spanish: Fluent
Basque: Beginner
Accommodation
Private bedroom. Shared Kitchen, bathroom and living space
What else ...
This place is ideal for people interested in the out doors, particularly walking, climbing and biking. Although the village is very small there is a very good sense of community here and considerable interaction between the numerous small villages in the area. There are buses to Vitoria and very often lifts can be arranged with other neighbours. This is a very rural location and demands that people who visit are practical and resourceful.
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?
One
Hours expected
Maximum 4-5 hours a day, 5 days a week
Host ref number: 147852836984
Feedback (40)
18 Jun 2024
Left by Workawayer (Umair) for host
Phill is an amazing guy living at a beautiful location in Northern Spain. We had a very good time working & enjoying the simple life.
22 Dec 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Umair)
Umair stayed with me for a week. He was above all very good company, a source of very interesting conversation and a very calm presence in this house. We did a whole lot of pretty random stuff from moving donkeys around to shifting a big pile of heavy building materials.
Umair is very enthusiastic about finding realistic alternatives to the crazy… read more
Umair is very enthusiastic about finding realistic alternatives to the crazy… read more
(Excellent
)
20 Nov 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Aylin)
Aylin helped out here for ten days. The main focus of our work was in laying a concrete floor. Understandably this was something that she had no experience in and it took her quite far beyond her comfort zone. Nevertheless, she did very well and was much more useful than she probably thought she was.
She also helped out inspecting beehives and… read more
She also helped out inspecting beehives and… read more
(Excellent
)
20 Nov 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Maurice)
Maurice helped out here for two weeks. Our main focus was on a construction project, namely laying a concrete floor. Maurice had no prior experience in this type of work but he learned fast and was a tremendous help. The work here is pretty vaired and Maurice threw himself into all of it with enthusiasm even helping me out inspecting beehives and… read more
(Excellent
)
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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:
(4.9)
Cultural exchange:
(5.0)
Communication:
(5.0)
18 Jun 2024
Left by Workawayer (Umair) for host
Phill is an amazing guy living at a beautiful location in Northern Spain. We had a very good time working & enjoying the simple life.
22 Dec 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Umair)
Umair stayed with me for a week. He was above all very good company, a source of very interesting conversation and a very calm presence in this house. We did a whole lot of pretty random stuff from moving donkeys around to shifting a big pile of heavy building materials.
Umair is very enthusiastic about finding realistic alternatives to the crazy… read more
Umair is very enthusiastic about finding realistic alternatives to the crazy… read more
(Excellent)
20 Nov 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Aylin)
Aylin helped out here for ten days. The main focus of our work was in laying a concrete floor. Understandably this was something that she had no experience in and it took her quite far beyond her comfort zone. Nevertheless, she did very well and was much more useful than she probably thought she was.
She also helped out inspecting beehives and… read more
She also helped out inspecting beehives and… read more
(Excellent)
20 Nov 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Maurice)
Maurice helped out here for two weeks. Our main focus was on a construction project, namely laying a concrete floor. Maurice had no prior experience in this type of work but he learned fast and was a tremendous help. The work here is pretty vaired and Maurice threw himself into all of it with enthusiasm even helping me out inspecting beehives and… read more
(Excellent)
23 Aug 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Dzmitry)
Dzimitry helped out here for three weeks and was an incredible resource. Dzimitry is very independent and basically developed his own project to create a fantastic piece of sculpture by welding a whole load of old metal scrap into a fantastic sunflower. He also set to work adapting a horse cart so that it can be drawn by two donkeys. It works… read more
(Excellent)
15 Aug 2023
Left by Workawayer (Dzmitry) for host
This is a very cool place. Phil is a real mountain man! If you like to spend time in the mountains and in the forest - this will be a great place for you. I spent 3 weeks here and it was an interesting and eventful time. I improved my Spanish and English and learned a lot. Working at Phil's house was easy and fun. But you must be prepared to live… read more
13 Jun 2023
Left by Workawayer (Daniel & Olivia ) for host
It was a great pleasure to meet Phil and his lovely place in the Basque Country. From the first day on I felt being home, so that I finally stayed three weeks. Every day was different, I learned a lot about bees and donkeys and enjoyed gardening. Moreover it was great to meet his friends or Airbnb guests. Phil is an interesting and intelligent… read more
31 May 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Daniel & Olivia )
Olivia helped out here for three weeks. It was a real pleasure to have her around. She is really the best sort of volunteer, very autonomous and highly capable. Olivia is very intelligent, very capable and very calm. She's the kind of person you would want to have around on a serious expedition. Most highly recommended
(Excellent)
31 May 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Simon)
Simon helped out here for a week. He is an intelligent and capable guy and very willing to contribute. I greatly appreciated his help here and I'm sure he would be an asset to any project :)
(Excellent)
6 May 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Aneta)
Aneta was a great help and fun to have around. She stayed here for two weeks and helped out with a variety of tasks ranging from general housework to hanging out with guests, managing donkeys, assisting on treks and beekeeping. She actually knows loads about donkeys and is a confident beekeeper too. She is very quick and much more capable than she… read more
(Excellent)
3 Oct 2022
Left by Workawayer (Edwin Eu Win) for host
This was my first workaway experience and it has been one that I really enjoyed. I helped out with the bees and the donkeys, and they were all very friendly and kind to me. Phil was also great to talk to, having lots of interesting stories and experience to share.
My time spent there has been short, but if given the opportunity I would definitely… read more
My time spent there has been short, but if given the opportunity I would definitely… read more
3 Oct 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Edwin Eu Win)
Edwin could only stay for a couple of days, something that wouldn't normally be much use to me. However, he presented an interesting profile and turned out to be tremendously helpful. He's clearly someone who is driven by curiosity, is full of ideas and was a great help. He helped me inspect a whole bunch of beehives and also assisted on a donkey… read more
(Excellent)
8 Aug 2022
Left by Workawayer (Thomas) for host
I spent an amazing week with Phil and the Donkeys and the Bees. Phil is a wonderful host and it was great fun working with him and having adventures together. I was only there for a short time but we packed a lot into it and I fell in love with the region. It was quite fun getting to meet and hang out with some of the guests who came through and… read more
20 Jun 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Hannah Katherina)
I have hosted many volunteers and they've all been very helpful. Every now and then though, I get a volunteer who really shines. Hannah was one of those. She is really smart, very independent, never needs to be asked, curious about just about everything, very funny and just great company. We did quite a lot of beekeeping and she learned a lot… read more
(Excellent)
8 Jun 2022
Left by Workawayer (Juliette) for host
Thank you Phil for your friendship :-) You know you have a home near Toledo with a spare room waiting for you!
Phil is a wonderful host, patient and always grateful for the volunteers' help and company. The "work" is varied and fun, with a lot of outdoors and great experiences with the donkeys. I also really enjoyed taking care of the place,… read more
Phil is a wonderful host, patient and always grateful for the volunteers' help and company. The "work" is varied and fun, with a lot of outdoors and great experiences with the donkeys. I also really enjoyed taking care of the place,… read more
8 Jun 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Juliette)
Juliette was a massive help in this project and has become a great friend. She is extremely reliable, independent and hard working. In the month she stayed here she helped in receiving guests, managing donkeys, maintaining the garden, maintaining the house, cooking and even looking after the bees. Most importantly, she looked after the whole… read more
(Excellent)
18 Apr 2022
Left by Workawayer (Johnny Mac) for host
My first workaway expierence exceeded any expectations. Phil is a brilliant person who is a beacon of knowledge. We had excellent conversation over delicious food and explored the beautiful hills of the Basque Country (which Phil knows like the back of his hand). I would reccomend a visit for anyone wanting a rather magical expierence.
18 Apr 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Johnny Mac)
It was a real pleasure having Johnny Mac around and a shame he couldn't stay longer. He is thoughtful, intelligent, curious and just an all round decent guy. He was a huge help on our donkey treks and very good with people. He also helped out with a bunch of other tasks; building a bathroom and generally helping out round the house. I have no… read more
(Excellent)
4 Apr 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Manuela & William)
Manuela popped up out of the blue at just the right moment and fitted perfectly with this project. We were mainly occupied with building a bathroom. Tiling, plumbing and various other niggly tasks that would have been tricky on my own. Manuela was a capable and fun work companion. In addition she was fearless in front of some very big bee-hives… read more
(Excellent)
4 Apr 2022
Left by Workawayer (Manuela & William) for host
I had a wonderful week at Phil's place. I contacted him last minute, but he replied super quick and made me feel very welcome. The surroundings are beautiful, but the weather can be unpredictable. End of march we both had lovely sunny moments but also rain and a lot of snow (which was fun too).
The main project we worked on was the bathroom. Next… read more
The main project we worked on was the bathroom. Next… read more
30 Mar 2022
Left by Workawayer (Tillewe) for host
The two weeks in Leorza were well spent. The building job was hard but very interesting and what i expected. I learned a lot of things and it is always a good experience to see a construction plan becoming reality. Beside this Phil showed me the beauty of the region. We did some very nice trekking trips and he showed me some rellay nice climbing… read more
30 Mar 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Tillewe)
Till was a huge help on this project! Very easy company, great conversation and very handy.
The kind of guy I would happily embark on a long ocean voyage with.
We did some pretty heavy duty building work together. We both built a timber floor and plaster boarded the walls. Till was also very good with the donkeys and helped massively with a… read more
The kind of guy I would happily embark on a long ocean voyage with.
We did some pretty heavy duty building work together. We both built a timber floor and plaster boarded the walls. Till was also very good with the donkeys and helped massively with a… read more
(Excellent)
14 Dec 2021
Left by Workawayer (Romane) for host
I stayed at Phil's for a week and had a great time there. He is a very kind and respectful man, with whom I had some great conversations on interesting subjects. He's also a fantastic cook and never one to turn down a game, with a special mention for Backgammon.
Sharing the house with passing guests is also a great way to broaden your horizons,… read more
Sharing the house with passing guests is also a great way to broaden your horizons,… read more
13 Dec 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Romane)
Ramone is a happy, sunny personality. She is enthusiastic, hard working and quick and keen to learn. She helped me in a variety of tasks primarily in leveling a cement floor to receive tiles. She also helped on donkey treks and was great with the guests. Unfortunately our plans were complicated by an unexpected flood, which she also handled… read more
(Excellent)
9 Sep 2021
Left by Workawayer (Clara) for host
Llegué a este magnífico lugar por "casualidad" y no puedo estar más contenta con la decisión. Mi primer workaway, dos semanas, y repetiría sin duda. Des del primer momento Phil (y Yurema) me han hecho sentir como en casa. La compañia de ximis, carolina , los 4 fantásticos y las bees, imejorable. Un sitio tranquilo pero con avtividad, y sin la… read more
26 Aug 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Clara)
two weeks. She was an enormous help! Clara is independent, enthusiastic, quick to learn, great with people of all ages and fantastic company. I am sure she would be an asset to any project
Clara me ayudó durante dos semanas. ¡Ella fue de gran ayuda! Clara es independiente, entusiasta, rápida de aprender, excelente con personas de todas las edades… read more
Clara me ayudó durante dos semanas. ¡Ella fue de gran ayuda! Clara es independiente, entusiasta, rápida de aprender, excelente con personas de todas las edades… read more
(Excellent)
23 Jul 2021
Left by Workawayer (Alexander) for host
A few weeks ago, I read the same comments you are reading now and I thought to myself: “This place sounds too good to be true.” Well, having stayed with Phil and Tximis (the dog) for the past month, I can confirm this place is, indeed, truly special. I could spend hours writing about the things Phil has taught me, but I think it’s best you meet… read more
25 Feb 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Susana)
Susana was a huge help in this project! She stayed for a week and we redecorated my kitchen. But more than this she was an incredibly positive influence, a fund of good ideas and inspiration. She is a wise soul and I am sure she would be an asset to any project. Most highly recommended :)
(Excellent)
25 Feb 2020
Left by Workawayer (Susana) for host
I can only second all of the feedback below. Staying at Phil’s is an inspiring inner travelling while connecting with the beauty of Nature and Its beings. It is about experiencing how beautiful living in this world can be. He lives his life according to his principles and his commitment to that is what frames the unfolding of the unforgettable… read more
11 Feb 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Federico)
Federico was a huge help on this project. He has boundless energy and is full of good conversation. We chain sawed our way through 12 tonnes of fire wood at record speed! He is also just really easy to get along with, full of great ideas and I have no doubt that he would be an asset to just about any type of project. Highly recommended :)
(Excellent)
10 Feb 2020
Left by Workawayer (Federico) for host
I have been staying about one week in Phil's life, and it was amazing!
The work was cutting and chopping some wood and it/he was super chill. I got in love with this man, its way of life, its thoughts and its funny attitude. He made my staying super interesting, showing me the natural beauties of the area, the animals he takes care, and the… read more
The work was cutting and chopping some wood and it/he was super chill. I got in love with this man, its way of life, its thoughts and its funny attitude. He made my staying super interesting, showing me the natural beauties of the area, the animals he takes care, and the… read more
11 Feb 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Sierra)
Sierra was a huge help in this project! She is a really sunny personality and really easy to get along with. She is also extremely hard working and willing. We were mainly involved in chain sawing around 12 tonnes of fire wood but thanks to her enthusiasm we made light work of this. I am sure Sierra would be an asset to just about any project.… read more
(Excellent)
8 Feb 2020
Left by Workawayer (Sierra) for host
I had a great week working with Phil chopping wood! He was very kind, and cooked amazing food. It was really cool to see the donkeys and to experience hiking with them! Tximis, is a sweetheart and I will miss him very much!
I would describe Phil as having a generous spirit. He showed me and Federico around the town and took us to some amazing… read more
I would describe Phil as having a generous spirit. He showed me and Federico around the town and took us to some amazing… read more
2 Jul 2019
Left by Workawayer (Alisa) for host
"Excellent"
Any feedback would not be accurate enough to describe the beauty of the experience that Phil offers to volunteers through his magic project and personality. In my experience, each day spent at Phil place turned into something unforgettable and what I saw, learnt and did only by being at his side is of unquantifiable value. Any day… read more
Any feedback would not be accurate enough to describe the beauty of the experience that Phil offers to volunteers through his magic project and personality. In my experience, each day spent at Phil place turned into something unforgettable and what I saw, learnt and did only by being at his side is of unquantifiable value. Any day… read more
20 Jun 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Alisa)
Alisa was a huge help with this project. She is very very smart and a very fast learner. She very quickly understood the big picture regarding this project and was able to edit and relaunch my web site so that it now says exactly what I do here.
She has extremely good project management skills and speaks Spanish, English and French with complete… read more
She has extremely good project management skills and speaks Spanish, English and French with complete… read more
(Excellent)
26 Apr 2019
Left by Workawayer (Louise) for host
My stay at Phil's place was amazing! The work was fun and divers, the donkeys lovely and we had quite some adventures :-)
21 Jul 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Louise)
Louise was a huge help! She was autonomous, hard working and above all extremely good company. She is practical, has a lot of experience in event organisation and is very good with people. She is a fund of good ideas, a wise soul and unshakable in a tight spot. I am sure she could be an big asset to just about any project. Highly recommended!!!
(Excellent)
17 Dec 2018
Left by Workawayer (Workaway member) for host
I spent two weeks with Phil and had an excellent time! It was my first Workaway experience and it was great being welcomed into Phil's home/life and the beautiful area surrounding it. There wasn't a ton of work to be done but the work we did do was enjoyable and I definitely learned some new skills. I hope to return one day!
12 Dec 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Workaway member)
Tess was a massive help with this project. She helped with a variety of jobs including; a lime rendering a facade, lime washing, donkey management, and general help around the house. All that apart she is great fun, very independent, afraid of nothing, and would undoubtedly be an asset to any project!
(Excellent)
12 Dec 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Michael)
Mick was a massive help on this big ol' project of of mine. A really solid and very secure worker. He helped rendering a facade in lime morter and then lime washing. He was also pretty handy rounding up rouge donkeys.
And all that apart he was just the best sort of company. Great conversations and many laughs. I have no doubt that he would be a… read more
And all that apart he was just the best sort of company. Great conversations and many laughs. I have no doubt that he would be a… read more
(Excellent)
1 Nov 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Eva)
Eva and her incredibly friendly and cute dog Plus, did a week of workaway in September then came back at the end of October for another session. I really loved having them both around. Eva was a huge help, learned really fast, worked too hard ;) and was generally just great company. Highly recommended!
(Excellent)
31 Oct 2018
Left by Workawayer (Giacomo) for host
I've stayed with Phil for almost three weeks this summer instead of the just one that i've planned to stay at the beginning.
Phil is really a nice guy, superfunny smart e interesting. we have done lots of stuff togheter and with the people who came to his house.
For enjoy at the best your time in Leorza you have to be a person who love to stay… read more
Phil is really a nice guy, superfunny smart e interesting. we have done lots of stuff togheter and with the people who came to his house.
For enjoy at the best your time in Leorza you have to be a person who love to stay… read more
12 Aug 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Giacomo)
Really excellent guy!!
Giacomo is extremely practical, highly motivated, very smart and was a huge help with this project.
We did a variety of tasks ranging from handling donkeys, guiding visitors on donkey treks, gardening, building a wooden ladder and more. He's also a really good cook and just really easy company. Highly recommended!!!!
Giacomo is extremely practical, highly motivated, very smart and was a huge help with this project.
We did a variety of tasks ranging from handling donkeys, guiding visitors on donkey treks, gardening, building a wooden ladder and more. He's also a really good cook and just really easy company. Highly recommended!!!!
(Excellent)
7 Oct 2018
Left by Workawayer (Anikoo) for host
staying and phil's and helping out with the donkeys and other daily tasks was a pleasure. thanks again! phil has the abiity to make people feel welcome and home in a very chilled and natural way and is very nice and interessting company. the work kind of happened on the side/or I just enjoyed what we were doing. Anyway it was interessting; phil… read more
14 Sep 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Anikoo)
Aniko was a huge help with this project. She stayed for a little over two weeks and was always willing to get involved. We did a variety of tasks including handling donkeys, running treks, opening bee-hives and general house keeping. Aniko was very autonomous and above all just great company. I highly recommend her and feel sure that she would be… read more
(Excellent)
6 Sep 2017
Left by Workawayer (Carla) for host
Phil was my last host after being traveling for almost six months in the north of Spain. It was my 10th house as a volunteer and my experience there was amazing.
What Phil proposes goes beyond the volunteering. He proposes living, shareing, being family :)
I traveled with my old dog who suddently went along with Phil's dog: Tximis. He is the… read more
What Phil proposes goes beyond the volunteering. He proposes living, shareing, being family :)
I traveled with my old dog who suddently went along with Phil's dog: Tximis. He is the… read more
5 Sep 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Carla)
Carla is an exceptional person and was a huge help here. She has great initiative and is very independent. She helped out here in general upkeep of the house, handling donkeys, setting out electric fencing, a bit of carpentry, and looking after guests. In this latter she was particularly helpful as she is great fun and an extremely talented… read more
(Excellent)
19 Aug 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Therese)
Therese volunteered for around two weeks and was a huge help. She is excellent company, very independent and has loads of initiative. She helped handling donkeys, moving electric fencing, varnishing a floor, hanging out with guests and running donkey treks. I'm sure she would be a welcome addition to just about any project!
(Excellent)
31 Jul 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Darragh)
Darragh is extremely good company, very hard working, independent and showed loads of initiative. We did a lot of carpentry and Darragh has a real talent here. Practical and a real attention to detail. We also did loads of other stuff too from handling donkeys, setting out electric fencing, gardening, bee keeping, and donkey trekking with… read more
(Excellent)
30 Jul 2017
Left by Workawayer (Darragh) for host
My first Workaway experience couldn't have been better. Phil is very welcoming and makes you and the guests feel at home immediately. The same can be said of Tximis and the donkeys!
There's always plenty of things to do around the house, garden and with the animals. With that the beautiful surroundings offer a huge mix of activities and things to… read more
There's always plenty of things to do around the house, garden and with the animals. With that the beautiful surroundings offer a huge mix of activities and things to… read more
5 Jun 2017
Left by Workawayer (Leanne) for host
wow what a guy! you are a very lucky soul if you manage to pass through Phils place! he will enrich your soul with his stories and soothe you with his easy pace. He was afraid to overwork me but i felt i hardly worked at all! I stumbled upon Phils place as my plans changed and I´m so glad i did as i got to wind down, swim in the wild, hear live… read more
3 May 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Leanne)
Leanne was a huge help! She knows loads about horses and now knows about donkeys too. She helped in the management of my herd of donkeys; laying out electric fencing, taking care of them and assisting on treks. She also helped with a carpentry project laying a wooden floor.
As an added extra she's a good cook, excellent yoga instructor and just… read more
As an added extra she's a good cook, excellent yoga instructor and just… read more
(Excellent)
27 Mar 2017
Left by Workawayer (Fco. Javier & Ana) for host
The time I've spent in Leorza with Phil has been so great! I have learned many things and I have really enjoyed the project; easy job always satisfying and with donkey treks and dog love as a reward. Phil has made me feel valued and always like at home.
Absolutely recommended for anyone interested in building projects, nature and animals. Amazing… read more
Absolutely recommended for anyone interested in building projects, nature and animals. Amazing… read more
26 Mar 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Fco. Javier & Ana)
Ana spent a little over two weeks with me and was a huge help! She helped in various aspects of a barn restoration project; laying a wooden tongue and groove floor, rendering in lime mortar and assisting in the installation of plumbing. She was also a great help with the management of the donkeys; helping to lay out electric fencing, moving the… read more
(Excellent)
20 Mar 2017
Left by Workawayer (Andrew) for host
The location is perfect for hikes, climbing and caving to name just a few. There was lots of spare time to cook, chat, read and clear your mind! Phil is a great guy with plenty of stories and knowledge of the Basque country, you'll experience a truly off the beaten path form of exploration anywhere you go. The donkeys and Tximista the dog are… read more
15 Mar 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Andrew)
Andy stayed with me for about twenty days and was an enormous help. He was involved in a project to reform an old barn and was very handy. He also helped in the daily routine of looking after the donkeys.
Later he looked after my house and all the various livestock while I was away for ten days and he did an excellent job.
Apart from that he… read more
Later he looked after my house and all the various livestock while I was away for ten days and he did an excellent job.
Apart from that he… read more
(Excellent)
23 Feb 2017
Left by Workawayer (Wouter) for host
I think it can all be put down into one sentence: Phil's place is more or less the reason you travel, so go and visit him, and live in beautiful Leorza!
It was more then just helping with the work that needed to be done. The host, house and area invite you to open up and live the good and simple life. We had many great conversations and did all… read more
It was more then just helping with the work that needed to be done. The host, house and area invite you to open up and live the good and simple life. We had many great conversations and did all… read more
12 Feb 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Wouter)
What a pleasure to have had the chance to get to know Wouter!
Wouter is an extraordinarily warm hearted bloke. He was a huge help on this project! He is very practical and very attentive to detail. He helped with dry lining a room and was also a great help with the donkeys and taking guests out on excursions.
Beyond that he was just great… read more
Wouter is an extraordinarily warm hearted bloke. He was a huge help on this project! He is very practical and very attentive to detail. He helped with dry lining a room and was also a great help with the donkeys and taking guests out on excursions.
Beyond that he was just great… read more
(Excellent)
14 Feb 2017
Left by Workawayer (Justin) for host
I had a great 2 weeks staying with Phil this January. I learned lots about the way of life he's got, maintaining the house and living close to nature. Building renovations and donkey care was the main work we did, good learning experiences and very fun! We took many hikes, visiting caves, and even camping with the donkeys near Iski national park.… read more
10 Jan 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Joshua)
Joshua helped me out with various tasks over the course of a week. He took part in a project to insulate and dry line a room. He was also very good with the donkeys and learned quickly how to handle them and set out an electric fence.
He's also just very good company. Highly recommended :)
He's also just very good company. Highly recommended :)
(Excellent)
27 Dec 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Kevin)
Kevin is a lovely guy. He spent a week with us and lent his help in the reconstruction of a barn. He didn't have a lot of experience in construction but learned quickly and worked hard. Kevin is clearly a very talented graphic artist and knows a lot about computing.
(Excellent)
21 Dec 2016
Left by Workawayer (Isabella) for host
To you all, Leorza is awesome.
A land without time
A land of yours and mine.
The time that we had.
Made us so glad!
And phil, The fine host
Was completely the most
Incomparable friend
And the joy never did end.
Though cold in the winter
Our adventures it didn't hinder.
Thank you for everything! A scary casco
-Maija and Isabella… read more
A land without time
A land of yours and mine.
The time that we had.
Made us so glad!
And phil, The fine host
Was completely the most
Incomparable friend
And the joy never did end.
Though cold in the winter
Our adventures it didn't hinder.
Thank you for everything! A scary casco
-Maija and Isabella… read more
17 Dec 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Isabella)
Isabella and Maija were beyond excellent. Great workers, fast learners, and just great company. They helped generally with my donkeys. Helped install a new barbed wire fence. Horrible job which they executed valiantly. They also did a great job repointing a wall and rendering another.
And apart from that they kept me endlessly entertained… read more
And apart from that they kept me endlessly entertained… read more
(Excellent)
26 Nov 2016
Left by Workawayer (Julia) for host
Phil has hosted my for my first workaway and I could not have had a better start. We worked renovating his house and handling the donkeys, which was a lot of fun. He took us around, so we could dive into the culture of basque life and nature. Thanks again, Phil, for this amazing start!
21 Nov 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Julia)
Julia helped out with a variety of tasks from handling donkeys, setting out electric fencing to some building work. She is very good company, easy to get along with, learned fast and worked hard. Highly recommended :)
(Excellent)
22 Nov 2016
Left by Workawayer (Or & Tal) for host
Phil was my best workaway so far. We spent a lot of time touring the area with phils guidens, going to concerts, caves, and even a spa. He always explained where we are and told us stories about many things. I spent more than 2 weeks there and could have stayed alot more. Perfect place for donkey lovers. And highly recommended in general.
21 Nov 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Or & Tal)
Or helped out here for almost three weeks. He was very good company and easy to get along with. He helped out in a variety of tasks ranging from donkey handling, setting out electric fence to general building work. He was a great help and learned quickly. Highly recommended :)
(Excellent)
31 Jul 2016
Left by Workawayer (Janoël) for host
Phil is an amazing person: kind, welcoming, generous, inspiring, adventurous and also a great vegetarian cook. The work was very varied and nice: making and fixing stuff in and around the house, working in the garden and working with the lovely donkeys Momo and Django. Phil also showed us around in the beautiful environment and took us climbing,… read more
8 May 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Janoël)
Janoël helped me with a fairly serious building restoration project. Although she had no experience she learned incredibly fast. She proved herself to be an excellent team member and worked very hard to achieve amazing results.
Her key qualities; Hard working, very good initiative, resourceful, attention to detail, very intelligent,… read more
Her key qualities; Hard working, very good initiative, resourceful, attention to detail, very intelligent,… read more
(Excellent)
16 Jun 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Amy)
Amy and Hercules staid with me for about three weeks. They were both really easy company and a great help. Amy is an excellent cook and very strong so not shy of hard work.
(Excellent)
20 May 2016
Left by Workawayer (Annabelle) for host
Phil is a wonderful man. We had a super chilled time staying with him, he is so kind hearted and generous and never expects too much from anyone. We arrived last minute when he didn't really need 2 extra pairs of hands, but still he took us on and found things for us to do. We had a lovely room and were fed well with fresh healthy vegetarian food.… read more
18 May 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Annabelle)
Annabelle and Tom joined me at the last minute and helped in a variety of tasks particularly in the garden. They are both dependable workers and most importantly very easy to get along with. Annabelle speaks good Spanish and Tom is a talented cook. Definitely recommend them both and hope they might pass through here again
(Excellent)
18 May 2016
Left by Workawayer (Jacob Willer) for host
I had an amazing stay with Phil! He showed us around the area, took us trekking, climbing, all kind of fun stuff. He was really good at explaining about the Basque culture and history. The work was also great, both construction, handling donkeys - very varied. I really hope to be able to return one day to Phil's incredible place :)
8 May 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Jacob Willer)
Jacob helped me with a fairly serious building restoration project. Although he had no experience he learned incredibly fast. He proved himself to be an excellent team member and worked very hard to achieve amazing results.
His key qualities; Hard working, very good initiative, resourceful, attention to detail, very intelligent,… read more
His key qualities; Hard working, very good initiative, resourceful, attention to detail, very intelligent,… read more
(Excellent)
21 Apr 2016
Left by Workawayer (Mary-Ellen) for host
hmmmmmm..... what to say! I stayed here for two wonderfull weeks during semana santa, but would have stayed for longer if I could have. Phil was an excellent host for many reasons. He has a great knack for making you feel welcomed, both in the home, and when out and about with friends.
Sooo.....
If you want to spend time trekking (with ze… read more
Sooo.....
If you want to spend time trekking (with ze… read more
5 Apr 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Mary-Ellen)
Mary Ellen was was an enormous help. She helped out in a whole variety of tasks, from painting and decorating to being with visitors, handling donkeys and participating in donkey treks. She is independent, hard working quick to learn and just very good company. Highly recommended!
(Excellent)
15 Jan 2016
Left by Workawayer (Emilie) for host
Staying with Phil was a fantastic experience for me. He was welcoming, flexible and I felt very lucky to have spent time in his renovated rustic home.
He allowed me to utilise his kitchen, which made me very happy, and always fed me with wholesome, home-cooked (and grown from the garden) produce.
I spent a month with Phil in August, although… read more
He allowed me to utilise his kitchen, which made me very happy, and always fed me with wholesome, home-cooked (and grown from the garden) produce.
I spent a month with Phil in August, although… read more
6 Sep 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Emilie)
Emily stayed with me for the month of August and was a huge help.
Very easy company, quick to learn, resourceful, independent.
Sorry to see her go and highly recommend her.
Very easy company, quick to learn, resourceful, independent.
Sorry to see her go and highly recommend her.
(Excellent)
10 Jan 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Anna)
Anna helped us enormously with various projects. She is highly motivated, very organised, very smart, very quick to learn and just a whole lot of fun. She was involved here in an incredibly labour intensive bean harvest. She was unstoppable and usually left us far behind! She was also involved in guiding visitors on donkey treks and was really the… read more
(Excellent)
1 Oct 2015
Left by Workawayer (Anna) for host
I spent fantastic 3 weeks at Phil's place and can just highly reccomand to do this (even for a longer period!). Phil encouraged me to learn new things (I learnt much about donkeys, bees, the daily life in this part of the Basque Country, climbing, meditation and much more things). He knows so many (funny) stories and the whole stay didn't feel… read more
2 Dec 2015
Left by Workawayer (Damon & Natalia) for host
My wife and I stayed with Phil for a very short time but we enjoyed it. Phil is a very easy going and laid back fellow and is very welcoming. Phil was able to show us some trails up in the mount and also some of the caves that are situated up there. This is a fine place for folks who would like to "get away" from the "hussle and bussle" and just… read more
9 Nov 2015
Left by Workawayer (Maeve) for host
I enjoyed the week I spent at Phil's place, making chutney and cleaning organic vegetables for his friend's small business.
Phil knows a lot about the area where he lives and his friends I met were also lovely.
His house is in a beautiful location and it was good to be without internet to really appreciate the tranquility.
His donkey are crazy… read more
Phil knows a lot about the area where he lives and his friends I met were also lovely.
His house is in a beautiful location and it was good to be without internet to really appreciate the tranquility.
His donkey are crazy… read more
20 Jan 2015
Left by Workawayer (Mireia) for host
It was for me a change to go in euskadi to have a new experience and work in the house helping with the mantainance. Phil was very kind to me all the time.
19 Jan 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Mireia)
Mireia stayed with me for five days and did an excellent job painting a room:)
(Excellent)
