Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
11 Mar 2024
Reply rate
100.0 %
Usually responds within 4 days
Feedback
88
Email verified
Badges (2)
Details
Description
We are trying to revive the degenerated Domaine surrounding our Château, which nowadays consists of an animal farm with 25ha of hilly pastures, a 45ha forest, a saw-mill and some holiday homes. When we (Bianca, who was trained to be a nurse, and Paul, who had been stuck in an office for far too long) were in our mid 40's, we decided to get away from it all. So it was in 2005 that we left our studying sons behind and emigrated from the overpopulated Netherlands to the tranquility of rural south-west of France. We have embraced some of the local Gascon lifestyle, in which we like to enjoy a full table, both food and company, after a hard day’s work. Our son Tobias joined us early 2014 to start up bee-keeping as part of the farm activities. In spite of all the progress made, the domain never seems finished. So YES, we do welcome volunteers to help out on the farm, with the forestry and to generally fix-up this quiet Gascony glory!
Types of help and learning opportunities
Gardening
DIY and building projects
General Maintenance
Farmstay help
Help with Eco Projects
Animal Care
Hospitality/Tourism
Help with Computers/ Internet
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Projects involving children
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
Help
In one project, we will saw tree trunks in to planks and beams with which a shed and a barn need to be renovated. The large branches are to be (machine) split for firewood, and all the medium and small branches will be shredded into chips for the wood burner of the central heating. A secondary destination for the planks and beams is to convert the roof of a large hangar in to an area for solar panels to generate electricity.
Another project is to renovate a building that in the 1950’s and 1960’s housed the farm workers. The idea is to change it in to a shop (boutique) to sell our farm produce, especially honey. In case you might be interested in bee-keeping, there are already a few "past" workawayers who started their own hives at home, based on the experience and knowledge they pick up from Tobias.
Meanwhile the decoration and renovation of the main house is not yet finished, the surrounding garden, adjacent vegetable garden scream for attention and general maintenance at the farm and the two holiday villas and pool is never finished. Of course our animals (mainly beef + bees) require continuous care with which we welcome a helping hand...
Languages spoken
German: Fluent
English: Fluent
French: Fluent
Dutch: Fluent
Accommodation
The 3 guest-rooms in the mansion share their own bathroom. We will provide for your preferred breakfast but you'll have to prepare it yourself. But the other 2 meals will be prepared for you, a cold meal at lunch and a warm meal in the evening. Laundry can be done. The daily chores will be shared by all who enjoy the household.
What else ...
We have plenty of experience with (mostly young) people helping out at the farm, being it family, friends and WorkAwayers ever since 2005. We started with a group of 15, family and friends, including our 2 sons and some of their friends (city boys and girls) who helped us out during the summer holidays. They all enjoyed it and some so much that they returned regularly in the following years. The last 5 years we had, on average, a dozen WorkAwayes visiting us every year, and some of them left a review on this Internet site.
As a consequence of most of our activities we virtually live outdoors starting April. On a daily routine, the closer we get to the warm season, the earlier we rise to benefit from the early light and avoid the heath. We do warm lunches, which often cause the inevitable siesta.
We know that our place sounds idyllic to some people, so we prefer to be straightforward about what people may expect here. You should realize that it is a lot of physical work around a farm/forest? Don’t be afraid to break a fingernail occasionally or to get your hands and knees dirty. Sometimes we even do some muscle fledging, backbone-building work, and that goes for the both of us (in our fifties).
From experience we would prefer to have WorkAwayers as from the age of 21 years upwards, and for at least 2 weeks.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
This host has indicated that they love having digital nomads stay.
Space for parking camper vans
a campervan or motorhome can easily be parked on our premises, but having invited WorkAwayer to come and stay with us, we do prefer to shelter them in the big house.
Can possibly accept pets
we have had WorkAwayers visiting with their pets (dogs only) , which worked out fine with our own free roaming dogs and cats but only if the visiting pet.. eh, no, dogs only, is well behaved and can sleep outside together with our dogs. No cats or dogs allowed inside the house !
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Host ref number: 17768577314b
Feedback (42)
15 Jan 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Carlos & Amaia)
Les meilleurs !
De plus que 100 WorkAwayers nous ont accueilli chez nous, Amalia et Carlos sont minimal dans le 10 top. Avec respect nous avons vue leur essaie sans fin de améliorer leur français, et tout leur autres capacités et caractéristiques sont, sans réserve, les meilleurs.
Amalia et Carlos, vous savez que vous êtes toujours bienvenu chez… read more
De plus que 100 WorkAwayers nous ont accueilli chez nous, Amalia et Carlos sont minimal dans le 10 top. Avec respect nous avons vue leur essaie sans fin de améliorer leur français, et tout leur autres capacités et caractéristiques sont, sans réserve, les meilleurs.
Amalia et Carlos, vous savez que vous êtes toujours bienvenu chez… read more
(Excellent
)
3 Jan 2021
Left by Workawayer (Carlos & Amaia) for host
Que podemos decir de Bianca y Paul que no sea bueno!!!!!
Desde el primer momento te hacen sentir como en tu propia casa. Son amables, simpáticos, respetuosos, cultos, generosos, se preocupan por el bienestar de las personas a las que acogen.
El trabajo con ellos siempre fué gratificante, saben valorar lo que haces, no te piden nada que no puedas… read more
Desde el primer momento te hacen sentir como en tu propia casa. Son amables, simpáticos, respetuosos, cultos, generosos, se preocupan por el bienestar de las personas a las que acogen.
El trabajo con ellos siempre fué gratificante, saben valorar lo que haces, no te piden nada que no puedas… read more
10 Jun 2018
Left by Workawayer (Matheus) for host
Write about the experience I had with Toby, Bianca and Paul will be the hardest thing I'll do in my life.
When I arrived at the farm, I said several times: I'm so glad to be here! And I really was, because I planned everything for a long time before coming and crossing the Ocean and have the good fortune to find this wonderful family that helped… read more
When I arrived at the farm, I said several times: I'm so glad to be here! And I really was, because I planned everything for a long time before coming and crossing the Ocean and have the good fortune to find this wonderful family that helped… read more
5 Jun 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Alexandra & Riccardo)
We heartily recommend Alex and Ricardo.
They are hardworking and willing to put their hands to anything. Versatile, happy company and very pro-active. They pay attention to what job for the day is expected and somehow, they always seem to know what to do. Half a word is sufficient to get them going. And they have a tendency not to stop until the… read more
They are hardworking and willing to put their hands to anything. Versatile, happy company and very pro-active. They pay attention to what job for the day is expected and somehow, they always seem to know what to do. Half a word is sufficient to get them going. And they have a tendency not to stop until the… read more
(Excellent
)
12 May 2018
Left by Workawayer (Alexandra & Riccardo) for host
It's been a few days since we left but already we miss the company of this family that has kindly hosted us in the countryside of south-west France. Here you can find very generous and nice people, the place is extraordinary and can offer spectacular landscapes. love the tranquility of the countryside do not hesitate.The work is so much on the… read more
Photos
Feedback
15 Jan 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Carlos & Amaia)
Les meilleurs !
De plus que 100 WorkAwayers nous ont accueilli chez nous, Amalia et Carlos sont minimal dans le 10 top. Avec respect nous avons vue leur essaie sans fin de améliorer leur français, et tout leur autres capacités et caractéristiques sont, sans réserve, les meilleurs.
Amalia et Carlos, vous savez que vous êtes toujours bienvenu chez… read more
De plus que 100 WorkAwayers nous ont accueilli chez nous, Amalia et Carlos sont minimal dans le 10 top. Avec respect nous avons vue leur essaie sans fin de améliorer leur français, et tout leur autres capacités et caractéristiques sont, sans réserve, les meilleurs.
Amalia et Carlos, vous savez que vous êtes toujours bienvenu chez… read more
(Excellent
)
3 Jan 2021
Left by Workawayer (Carlos & Amaia) for host
Que podemos decir de Bianca y Paul que no sea bueno!!!!!
Desde el primer momento te hacen sentir como en tu propia casa. Son amables, simpáticos, respetuosos, cultos, generosos, se preocupan por el bienestar de las personas a las que acogen.
El trabajo con ellos siempre fué gratificante, saben valorar lo que haces, no te piden nada que no puedas… read more
Desde el primer momento te hacen sentir como en tu propia casa. Son amables, simpáticos, respetuosos, cultos, generosos, se preocupan por el bienestar de las personas a las que acogen.
El trabajo con ellos siempre fué gratificante, saben valorar lo que haces, no te piden nada que no puedas… read more
10 Jun 2018
Left by Workawayer (Matheus) for host
Write about the experience I had with Toby, Bianca and Paul will be the hardest thing I'll do in my life.
When I arrived at the farm, I said several times: I'm so glad to be here! And I really was, because I planned everything for a long time before coming and crossing the Ocean and have the good fortune to find this wonderful family that helped… read more
When I arrived at the farm, I said several times: I'm so glad to be here! And I really was, because I planned everything for a long time before coming and crossing the Ocean and have the good fortune to find this wonderful family that helped… read more
5 Jun 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Alexandra & Riccardo)
We heartily recommend Alex and Ricardo.
They are hardworking and willing to put their hands to anything. Versatile, happy company and very pro-active. They pay attention to what job for the day is expected and somehow, they always seem to know what to do. Half a word is sufficient to get them going. And they have a tendency not to stop until the… read more
They are hardworking and willing to put their hands to anything. Versatile, happy company and very pro-active. They pay attention to what job for the day is expected and somehow, they always seem to know what to do. Half a word is sufficient to get them going. And they have a tendency not to stop until the… read more
(Excellent
)
12 May 2018
Left by Workawayer (Alexandra & Riccardo) for host
It's been a few days since we left but already we miss the company of this family that has kindly hosted us in the countryside of south-west France. Here you can find very generous and nice people, the place is extraordinary and can offer spectacular landscapes. love the tranquility of the countryside do not hesitate.The work is so much on the… read more
12 Oct 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Hanna )
Hanna and Bjorn stayed with us for a few weeks. Apart from the fact that they are wonderful people and very pleasant to have around, they also worked very hard. We made so much progress!! Endless mowing, painting, taking care of the animals etc. they did everything with a smile on their face.
We wish them all the best for the future, and of course… read more
We wish them all the best for the future, and of course… read more
(Excellent
)
30 Sep 2017
Left by Workawayer (Hanna ) for host
We stayed one month at the farm, and it was such an amazing experience!! Bianca, Paul and Tobi are just great, we felt immediately at home. We liked that work was so divers, almost every day was different and every day we got to experience new challenges. We did all kinds of work from giving sugar-water to bees, giving food to the animals, to some… read more
3 Aug 2017
Left by Workawayer (Pierre) for host
I'm a couple of months late but...
This has been the best experience of my life. If you're an animal lover this is paradise. The cats, the lovely dogs, the cows and the famous horse. Bianca, Paul and Toby are the bests Hosts I've ever met. They invite in you to be part of their family and are extraordinarily warm with you. It is easily accessible… read more
This has been the best experience of my life. If you're an animal lover this is paradise. The cats, the lovely dogs, the cows and the famous horse. Bianca, Paul and Toby are the bests Hosts I've ever met. They invite in you to be part of their family and are extraordinarily warm with you. It is easily accessible… read more
2 Mar 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Pierre)
We loved having Pierre as a workawayer/houseguest. Always polite, very tidy and a great work mentality. Whatever job we asked of him he did with enthusiasm, and was only satisfied when the job was done properly. Being from Canada he was crazy about maple syrup (very funny!) and shared generously the cans he had brought with him. Even when he got… read more
(Excellent
)
24 May 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Leon)
We came to know Leon as a kind, open minded character who anyone would like to have around, as a guest and to help out. He is always motivated to get started and does not stop until things are finished. On top of that he is quite handy, tidy, reliable and you can trust him to do anything with such devotion as if it were his own.
In the evenings… read more
In the evenings… read more
(Excellent
)
7 May 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Phil)
When Phil arrived at our place he was already highly recommended by his previous host. And how right they were!! Phil is the kind of guy anyone would like to have around, as a guest and to help out. He is always motivated to get started and does not stop until things are finished. Besides that he is very handy and you can trust him to do anything… read more
(Excellent
)
6 May 2017
Left by Workawayer (Phil) for host
I lived on the farm for 3 weeks for a construction project and it was a great time with a great group of people.
I left feeling like part of the family and would go back to work for them anytime.
Its honest, hard work but you are never asked to do something that they wouldn't do themselves and there's always a beer waiting for you when you… read more
I left feeling like part of the family and would go back to work for them anytime.
Its honest, hard work but you are never asked to do something that they wouldn't do themselves and there's always a beer waiting for you when you… read more
22 Mar 2017
Left by Workawayer (Javier) for host
I was with Bianca, Paul and Tobby for three weeks, they are great people willing to help and teach you patiently as much as they can.
We did many different jobs in which I really learnt a lot: beekeeping with Tobby, wood chopping with Paul, slaughtering rabbits with Bianca,...
I thank you so much for sharing your family life with us (me and… read more
We did many different jobs in which I really learnt a lot: beekeeping with Tobby, wood chopping with Paul, slaughtering rabbits with Bianca,...
I thank you so much for sharing your family life with us (me and… read more
20 Mar 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Javier)
Javier stayed with us for three weeks. He helped Tobias, our son, with all the preparations for the new bee season. This included carpentry, painting etc. He loved taking care of the animals and we could rely on him that he would do a proper job. Working with the chainsaw and driving the tractor was also no problem for him. All in all, we made… read more
(Excellent
)
20 Mar 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Paolo)
Paolo is a quiet but pleasant houseguest. He is modest and tidy, has no problems getting up early and did whatever task we asked him to do without complaining. In the three weeks he was with us, we made enormous progress in all the work preparing for the new bee season. He has no problems getting his hands dirty and we could rely on him taking… read more
(Excellent
)
2 Mar 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Klara)
We had a very good time with Klara. She was a very pleasant and modest houseguest. Always smiling and easy to get along with. We could rely on her doing a job properly, whether it was taking care of the animals, gardening or painting (a special talent!).
We wish Klara all the best for the future and hope she will consider us when she looks for a… read more
We wish Klara all the best for the future and hope she will consider us when she looks for a… read more
(Excellent
)
16 Nov 2016
Left by Workawayer (Klara) for host
Two weeks, which I spent with Bianca, Paul, Tobi and all animals in September/October, became for me unforgettable!
Everyone made me feel more than welcome at the Chateau, stable, tractor or even around the bee hives. I got to know a lots of facts about cows, bees, and farming, which I hadn´t known before. Also I discovered a fancy for painting… read more
Everyone made me feel more than welcome at the Chateau, stable, tractor or even around the bee hives. I got to know a lots of facts about cows, bees, and farming, which I hadn´t known before. Also I discovered a fancy for painting… read more
19 Feb 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Jamie & Ryan)
We enjoyed the company of Jamie and Ryan for a full month, which time passed by way too quick. They are really good company, social skills in abundance, friendly and polite and with a good sense of humour. Fervent card players too. On top of that they are hard workers, experienced to do manual labour as well as to work with machines and both of… read more
(Excellent
)
18 Feb 2017
Left by Workawayer (Jamie & Ryan) for host
We stayed with Paul, Bianca and Tobias for 4 weeks from middle of January - Middle of February. Despite being winter, there was plenty to do, both work on the farm and also helping Toby with his bee enterprise! We were spoilt with food ( It had to be the first thing we wrote! ) and got to stay in an amazing property, with an incredible view of… read more
26 Aug 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Hope & Ritchie)
Altough it is some time ago that Ritchie and Hope stayed with us, we have not forgotten them. They are a lovely couple. Happy to be on their own but they also love to have fun with others. They are very pleasant guests to have. Tidy, always helpful, hardworking etc. etc.
If you ever need to get work done properly, don`t hesitate to invite these… read more
If you ever need to get work done properly, don`t hesitate to invite these… read more
(Excellent
)
29 Feb 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Jack)
Jack did a wonderful job in our vegetable garden, it looks really great now! He helped us with a lot of outdoor chores and never complained even though the weather was not always nice. We had some pleasant evenings playing board games and other evenings he was happy just reading. In short, Jack is nice company and a good house guest.
We wish you… read more
We wish you… read more
(Excellent
)
23 Feb 2016
Left by Workawayer (Jack) for host
I had a very good experience here. The whole family from Paul, Bianca and Toby to Hamlet and Yip were all very pleasent. The food Bianca made was delicious and I had wild bore for the first time! Paul had very good knowledge of the area's history and we had good conversations about it. Toby showed me the incredible world of bee keeping and I am… read more
28 Feb 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Tara)
We were so lucky to have Tara choose us from the long list of available hosts. She really is an ideal WorkAway guest, easy to get along with, mostly cheerful, attentive, helpful, proactive and on top of all that a seemingly endless energy with which she turned out to be one of the hardest working girls we have ever had around our place. Her… read more
(Excellent
)
12 Nov 2015
Left by Workawayer (Tara) for host
This review is coming late, but trying to summarize my time here is a very daunting task!
To put it simply, if you want to work hard in the beautiful French countryside with amazing people, look no further.
Bianca, Paul and Toby are a really special and welcoming family. After just a few days, I felt right at home. While there's always lots of… read more
To put it simply, if you want to work hard in the beautiful French countryside with amazing people, look no further.
Bianca, Paul and Toby are a really special and welcoming family. After just a few days, I felt right at home. While there's always lots of… read more
28 Feb 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Mariana)
We invited Mariana to stay with us because of her experience with beekeeping, at which she turned out to be quite adept and knowledgeable. But she had lots of other practical skills, which she gathered during her travels in order to reach a high level of self-sufficiency and independence some day in her future. On top of that she is a very… read more
(Excellent
)
24 Feb 2016
Left by Workawayer (Mariana) for host
First of all, sorry for the late feedback =/ . I was at the place of Bianca, Paul and Toby for three weeks in September and I was lucky to make a lot of different experiences related to farm life.
Everyday there was something new to learn and do. I most enjoyed the nights by the fireplace drinking hot coffee and the trips to the fairs in… read more
Everyday there was something new to learn and do. I most enjoyed the nights by the fireplace drinking hot coffee and the trips to the fairs in… read more
11 Feb 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Giulia)
When we saw Giulia’s profile-picture pass by it was obvious that this might be an animal caring person. And so she is, from our cats to dogs, and our chickens to bulls, it did not take Giulia long to have them all look forward to her care and attention. As from the first moments upon her arrival at our farm we all had an immediate liking to her,… read more
(Excellent
)
6 Feb 2016
Left by Workawayer (Giulia) for host
Now that my 3 weeks here are over I already want to go back and hug every single person and animal I met there.
Bianca and Paul are a lovely and smart couple, they love and respect each other and have a great sense of humour: they made me feel at home, never took advantage of my presence and treated me as a part of the family without babysitting… read more
Bianca and Paul are a lovely and smart couple, they love and respect each other and have a great sense of humour: they made me feel at home, never took advantage of my presence and treated me as a part of the family without babysitting… read more
9 Nov 2015
Left by Workawayer (Simon & Nicole) for host
Coming back to workaway after one year I realised I never wrote a feedback for my stay with Bianca and Paul! We had an amazing stay, working hard but absolutely rewarding. Bianca and Paul are both easy to talk to people, you will have a good stay!
1 Nov 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Louise)
Louise is a friendly, sporty and very strong girl. She was always in a good mood and always willing to work. Apart from her good work attitude she was a pleasant person to have around.
Dear Louise, we wish you a wonderful stay in France and good luck with your studies when you are back home again.
Dear Louise, we wish you a wonderful stay in France and good luck with your studies when you are back home again.
(Excellent
)
30 Oct 2015
Left by Workawayer (Louise) for host
My stay with Paul and Bianca was absolutely wonderful. It was my first workaway experience and I regret nothing of it! Though the work with them is physical and not always light, it was varied and I was never bored of it. If you don't want to work, however, don't go. The farm is well away from the noise of the city, so if you desire to go to a… read more
11 Sep 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Samuel & Jessica)
Samm & Jess are a really nice easygoing couple and we can recommend them to anyone. They are very interested, enthusiastic, attentive, and always willing to get their hands dirty. Samm has no problem doing any hard physical work and happens to be a great cook. Jess has patience of a saint and doesn't quit a task before she finishes it. Both are… read more
(Excellent
)
22 Aug 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Stanzin)
Stanzin is a very nice and modest person to have around. He is always in a good mood and willing to do whatever task you ask him to do. Besides that, he is good company and has many interesting things to tell about live in his village in the Himalayas. We wish him all the best and hope his tour guide business will prosper.
Paul, Bianca and… read more
Paul, Bianca and… read more
(Excellent
)
16 Aug 2015
Left by Workawayer (Stanzin) for host
in the lap of himalaya i am having sunny days and it reminds me the good days i have spent with these beautiful people. i know it is been a while, but you should know too that i never forget the good people and good time spend with them. i would like to thank paul, tobias and bianca for everything. it was really great experience for me, from bee… read more
22 Aug 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Fleur)
Fleur is a very hardworking independent workawayer. Just tell or show her what task you need her to do and you can be sure it will be done. In between she did all kinds of other stuff, like cleaning our kitchen, sweeping floors etc. She will always find a job to do. Apart from that it was great fun to have her around. Never a dull moment with… read more
(Excellent
)
12 Aug 2015
Left by Workawayer (Fleur) for host
Where to start... I have no clue, that's because I loved it all!!!!! The animals, the farm, the region, the food (especially the food), the wine, and last but not least the people. Bianca, a (grand-) mother, a wife, a farmkeeper and the best host there is. She is warm, open, a nice chat, a great chef, a good laugh, a disco queen; she makes you… read more
21 Jul 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Lorenzo)
Dear Lorenzo, it was a pleasure to have you at our farm. You were nice company, polite and tidy. Your English was adequate so we understood each other well. You did all the tasks we asked you to do without complaining and did only stop working when you had finished them. Whatever you will do in the future we are sure it will be a success. We wish… read more
(Very good
)
16 Jun 2015
Left by Workawayer (Lorenzo) for host
What a beautiful experience! I really appreciated my stay with Paul, Bianca and Toby. I was considered a member of the family and they were always ready to explain the works that I had to do, always in a relaxing way. Bianca is a fantastic cooker (I loved the Carbonara!), Paul is very kind and funny person and Toby is the King of BBQ and bees… read more
10 Jun 2015
Left by Workawayer (Bruna) for host
It was a good experience! We were there only for 2 weeks and despite of the hard work and strict schedules the family was super lovely. Paul is peaceful and wise company, Bianca was funny and cooks amazingly and Toby was friendly and very helpful. Their pets were the most awesome we have ever seen, if we could bring some with us it would have… read more
9 Mar 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (martinbaldwin)
Riva and Graham are great WorkAwayers! It is always good to have guests around who are generally friendly, cheerful and well-behaved, but ofcourse, at our farm, what more can we ask for but a couple of young farmers! Their interest and energy however did not limit to farm and garden work only. They did some deep cleaning in the house that was long… read more
(Excellent
)
1 Mar 2015
Left by Workawayer (martinbaldwin) for host
We, Graham&Riva, don't know where to start. Our experience with Paul, Bianca, and their son Toby was a time of our life which we will NEVER forget. Absolutely everything was wonderful. Each day brought new rewards: First thing each morning, and in good weather, we were blessed to wake up to the Pryenees Mountain Range in the distance. Morning… read more
14 Feb 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Sarah)
Lovely Sarah was with us for about 5 weeks and we really enjoyed her stay. Normally we don't take on such young work-awayers but in her case we were very happy to have made an exception of our own rule. She is funny, always in a good mood, works very hard, and we could always trust her to do any job we asked of her, and do it well! Dear Sarah, we… read more
(Excellent
)
5 Feb 2015
Left by Workawayer (Sarah) for host
I don't even know where to begin in sharing the fantastic experiences I had here!! Paul, Bianca, and Toby (and the menagerie of cats, dogs, cows, pigs, chickens, ducks, and geese) went above and beyond as hosts and I felt so at home working, drinking, and laughing alongside them in my 5 weeks there. I did everything from grinding feed to helping… read more
30 Jan 2015
Left by Workawayer (Luis) for host
My experience here, with Paul, Bianca & their son Toby, has been my first one as workawayer, and I think it couldn’t be better. Since I arrived they have treated me as a member of their family, and this is the way I have felt during this weeks: as part of their family. They are people that always have a smile to give you, good words, and concerned… read more
29 Jan 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Luis)
Luis Calderón Arias. That is a name to remember! For us it is a name that will last a long long time on our Top 5 list of WorkAwayers. He was energetic, enthusiastic, proactive and smart at helping us and his social graces are gallant and honorable, all of this with a clearly apparent intelligence and a good sense of humor. Like the Spanish say:… read more
(Excellent
)
6 Jul 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Olivia_S)
Olivia stayed with us for some 2 weeks and fitted-in right from day one. Although she lacks a little in stature for the real heavy farm work, she certainly knows how to “dig-in” with spirit and courage. She had no hesitation to suit-up and liked the bee-keeping activities considerably. She is a cheerful, polite and enthusiastic young woman,… read more
(Excellent
)
21 May 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Workaway member)
In case you are looking for a WorkAwayer that is Hardworking, Decent and a Pleasant person to have around, look no further. Spencer really is your man! He brings along practical intelligence and diligence, he is pro-active, he has quite some experience with outdoors work, and what he lacks he learns fast. But above all, he is a decent fellow,… read more
(Excellent
)
6 May 2014
Left by Workawayer (Vanesa) for host
6 May 2014
Left by Workawayer (Line) for host
My stay with Bianca & Paul was definitely one of the best stays throughout my journey. The company, food, surroundings and work were more than a delight and I enjoyed every minute of it. I learnt so much during my stay, ranging from how to kill a duck to how to drink Bianca's wonderful limoncello. Al though I wish I'd listened to Paul's advice on… read more
1 May 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Line)
Line might be considered young by some, but for all her 19 years she really was excellent. Not only is she smart, both intellectually and practically, flexible and generally cheerfull, but she is also funny and even brave. She' worked so very hard at our place, and she handles stress quite well. Thank you again Line. We are hoping to see you… read more
(Excellent
)
1 May 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Rupert)
We have had close to 40 WorkAwayers over the past couple of years and Rupert has defenitely entered our top 5. Granted, he has a farming, beefcattle background and knows his mechanics, which does come in handy at a beefcattle farm lacking specific mechanical knowledge. But his work attitude and social skills really make a difference. His social… read more
(Excellent
)
16 Feb 2014
Left by Workawayer (Jamie & Sarah) for host
Where do we start... For our first workaway we could not have been treated better, great family atmosphere, fantastic food, and plenty of projects to get on with. Being there also helped Sarah overcome her fear of big animals which she is proud of. We also loved the great movies in the evening and sitting by the fire. would love to come here… read more
29 Jan 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Jamie & Sarah)
Jamie and Sarah are a lovely couple. They are tidy, have good manners and are very hard workers. At our place they did some renovating,, helped taking care of our cows and all our other animals. They cleaned out barns and mucked out the stable. in other words: they are not afraid to get their hands dirty.
Thank you so much, both of you, for your… read more
Thank you so much, both of you, for your… read more
(Excellent
)
13 Feb 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Giorgio)
Giorgio stayed with us much and much too short. But the impression he left is indelible: when he (is) set(s) a goal he will not rest until it is completed. He is quite handy and on top of that he can weld (he could be pro if he'd set his mind to it, but we think Giorgio has entered this world to achieve a bigger purpose).
He is a very pleasant… read more
He is a very pleasant… read more
(Excellent
)
8 Nov 2013
Left by Workawayer (Giorgio) for host
Staying here was awesome. I learned a lot I ate very well and even if it is hardwork I did it with pleaseure.
I think it was a very lucky first workawaying experience and I hope to return there one day,
I think it was a very lucky first workawaying experience and I hope to return there one day,
13 Feb 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Jeffrey)
Jeff is a very pleasant houseguest to have around.
He is tidy and adapted himself well to our way of live. He worked very hard on all the projects we are doing at the moment: building eco-toilets, chainsawing, woodchipping, cleaning barns, carpentry etc. And he was in love with Bobby (the Bobcat).
Thank you so much for your enthousiasm and… read more
He is tidy and adapted himself well to our way of live. He worked very hard on all the projects we are doing at the moment: building eco-toilets, chainsawing, woodchipping, cleaning barns, carpentry etc. And he was in love with Bobby (the Bobcat).
Thank you so much for your enthousiasm and… read more
(Excellent
)
5 Feb 2014
Left by Workawayer (Jeffrey) for host
Paul and Bianca are truly great people! It has been such a joy to work with them for the past two weeks. I would have loved to spend more time with them, but I had other commitments to attend to. The work was rewarding and enjoyable. Paul let me have lots of fun with the chainsaw, bobcat, and using the jigsaw to cut out the toilet seats :) It was… read more
13 Sep 2013
Left by host for Workawayer (Matthew)
Matt is everything a host looks for in a WorkAwayer: hard worker, quick learner, tidy, very responsible, proactive and independant. Oh yes, and he loves trimming (weed-wacking), knows how to drive old tractors and can handle a chainsaw.
He is a pleasant guy to have around, sociable and with a good sense of humour, speaks fluent french, and… read more
He is a pleasant guy to have around, sociable and with a good sense of humour, speaks fluent french, and… read more
(Excellent
)
13 Sep 2013
Left by host for Workawayer (Brunnme1)
Melanie was the brightest star at our WorkAway constellation this season. Besides her excellent work attitude (proactive, tidy, doesn't stop until the job is done) she was also a very pleasant house guest (a friend, really), always in a good mood, and always ready to help. Although she comes highly recommended for other WorkAway hosts, we really… read more
(Excellent
)
24 Aug 2013
Left by host for Workawayer (Nicolas)
Dear Nicolas,
altough very late we would like you to know that we had a great time with you. Thank you so much for all the work you did for us. You were an enthusiastic worker, never complaining and always in a good mood. You were a very pleasant and tidy guest to have in our house.
We wish you all the best and if you ever want to come back,… read more
altough very late we would like you to know that we had a great time with you. Thank you so much for all the work you did for us. You were an enthusiastic worker, never complaining and always in a good mood. You were a very pleasant and tidy guest to have in our house.
We wish you all the best and if you ever want to come back,… read more
(Excellent
)
30 May 2013
Left by Workawayer (Nicolas) for host
I had a wonderful experience living and working with Paul and Bianca and their animals for 3 weeks. As soon as I arrived I was impressed by the beautiful countryside, especially the far reaching views of the Pyrenees and the forests - a truly idyillic location. Paul and Bianca are friendly and relaxed and made me feel welcome right from the… read more
10 Mar 2013
Left by Workawayer (Sukjung) for host
Speechless...
Thinking about them is a such pain.
Because I miss them so much....
Specially my two doggies... .
In a beautiful old house with a well organized garden.
Sitting at a table in a garden talking to Paul and Bianca
with Doeschika and Engy at lying down under my feet...
Special people in my life with a great wonderful… read more
Thinking about them is a such pain.
Because I miss them so much....
Specially my two doggies... .
In a beautiful old house with a well organized garden.
Sitting at a table in a garden talking to Paul and Bianca
with Doeschika and Engy at lying down under my feet...
Special people in my life with a great wonderful… read more
17 Aug 2012
Left by Workawayer (claud1) for host
A very belated thank you to Paul & Bianca for my time here , I found the experience rewarding, challenging and inspiring. Set in a beautiful area of france , It is a gorgeous house - the food was fantastic and the company not to mention two of the most brilliant dogs ever !!. The work was demanding but I always felt a sense of satisfaction… read more
7 Aug 2012
Left by host for Workawayer (Julie)
Dear Julie & Leigh,
Thank you so much for all your help. You both worked so very hard! It was such a pleasure to have you around. We love you both for your interest in our projects, your high spirits every day, and Leigh's technical knowledge (the pool pump is still working)! We wish you all the best and really hope to see you again
Thank you so much for all your help. You both worked so very hard! It was such a pleasure to have you around. We love you both for your interest in our projects, your high spirits every day, and Leigh's technical knowledge (the pool pump is still working)! We wish you all the best and really hope to see you again
(Excellent
)
1 Jul 2012
Left by Workawayer (Julie) for host
I don't even know where to start!! This was definitely our best experience so far, and I honestly doubt we could ever find a better place. The property is stunning, the food incredible, Bianca and Paul are amazing hosts and I won't even mention the evening drinks. Yes, the work is hard at times, and does not always go as planned!! But it is always… read more
7 Aug 2012
Left by host for Workawayer (Seb)
We can wholeheartedly recommend Sebastian to you. He is modest and tidy and a pleasant person to have around. He is very helpful, no matter what job is asked of him. He has carpentry skills which he has used in our place to repair a lot of broken furniture etc. He looked wistfully at our barn that needs renovating but unfortunately for him we have… read more
(Very good
)
28 Jun 2012
Left by Workawayer (Thomas) for host
BRILLIANT!!! I don't really know where to begin with how great Paul and Bianca were. The Farm itself was lovely and in a stunning location surrounded by fields and forest. The work I did was thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding as I learnt lots from Paul who was very willing to let me use the machinery and tools to carry out jobs. Bianca's food was… read more
6 May 2012
Left by host for Workawayer (Marco )
This soft-spoken, modest (sometimes too modest) young man was a pleasure to have around. Marco is very willing to work and to work hard. He loves taking care of animals. Being from the city he needed some guidance with gardening but did an excellent job none the less. During his stay he helped keeping our house tidy in his own quiet way. We can… read more
(Good
)
1 May 2012
Left by host for Workawayer (Jack_Houston)
Eighteen years! Too young, we thought initially. But based on his apparent ability to work a chainsaw, perhaps added with some inherited builder skills, we made an exception to our own rule not to engage WorkAwayer below the age of 20. And that Jack turned out to be, EXCEPTIONAL in terms of practical intelligence, energy, endurance, readiness to… read more
(Excellent
)
25 Apr 2012
Left by Workawayer (Jack_Houston) for host
Couldn't have asked for better hosts to break me into the work away experience. Everything about it was great, the work, food, accommodation, company, everything. The work on the farm was physically demanding at times but never dull as you're constantly learning about stuff around the farm. Thank you Bianca and Paul for having me it's been… read more
5 Mar 2012
Left by host for Workawayer (tstravels)
Tia was a small treasure we enjoyed having around early in the year. She is smart and practical, which is a good combination to have around on a farm. If she was a bit rusty on her DIY skills at first, she took up our pace quickly and we did appreciate her thoroughness at all things she put her mind to. First class labor attitude, all over!! On… read more
(Excellent
)
9 Mar 2011
Left by Workawayer (tstravels) for host
Had a superb time with Paul and Bianca. I loved the animals, the scenery, all the people I met... working on the farm brought me back to my childhood. Which was hard work but rewarding. Paul and Bianca are wonderful people, very trusting and patient. Biancas cooking is out of this world! delicious! I was never hungry. Thanks so much guys for an… read more
10 Oct 2011
Left by host for Workawayer (Kelsy)
Dear Kelsy,
It was such a pleasure having you. We are impressed with all the talents you have. All farmwork, including driving the tractor, renovation work, helping with our sawmill and even cooking, you can do it all! And apart from that you are a very pleasant person that can be relied upon to do the job properly and finish it. We miss you! If… read more
It was such a pleasure having you. We are impressed with all the talents you have. All farmwork, including driving the tractor, renovation work, helping with our sawmill and even cooking, you can do it all! And apart from that you are a very pleasant person that can be relied upon to do the job properly and finish it. We miss you! If… read more
(Excellent
)
7 Oct 2011
Left by Workawayer (Kelsy) for host
These guys are great! They almost had to throw me out because I didn't want to leave. Through my entire stay I can honestly say that I didn't feel like I did a single day of work. I'm not saying the work wasn't hard, it is, but I just enjoyed myself the entire time. This was my first workaway and I am so grateful Paul and Bianca opened their home… read more
7 Sep 2011
Left by Workawayer (swegarhr) for host
Given that my recent trip to France was my first solo-international voyage, I couldn't have asked for a more welcoming, caring, genuine, and light-hearted host family. Paul and Bianca welcomed me with open arms and made me feel as though I was part of the family during my entire three-week stay. It was great to be in an environment where I was… read more
3 Sep 2011
Left by host for Workawayer (swegarhr)
it was not difficult to embrace Hannah into our group, and all of us, family and friends alike agreed fondly that she is “très, très sympa”. Not only did we find her to be cheerful, outgoing, interested and with good sense of humour, but she was also helpful, industrious, full of initiative, unfazed and difficult to stop until the job was done.… read more
(Excellent
)
29 Apr 2011
Left by host for Workawayer (Philip)
Philip is one of those workawayers who deserves a gold medal. He is a hard working and pleasant person to have around. He showed a lot of initiative which was greatly appreciated by us. He is an all-round guy, be it building, taking care of animals or gardening, he does it all! He really helped us a lot!!
Philip, whenever you are in the region,… read more
Philip, whenever you are in the region,… read more
(Excellent
)
29 Apr 2011
Left by Workawayer (Philip) for host
This was the best workaway-experience I had. Bianca and Paul are easygoing and relaxed people, open to suggestions and always willing and patient to explain things. I had the feeling I could take own initiative and be respected for that!!! Ok, its hard work, mind that If your planning to go there, but it was so rewarding because I felt part… read more
28 Sep 2010
Left by Workawayer (Alice & Hannah) for host
We were apprehensive about our first ever workaway but we quickly learnt we had nothing to fear. Bianca and Paul were lovely hosts and were very patient with our lack of experience. We ate fantastic food and generally enjoyed the slow French lifestyle which we missed once we left to continue our travels alone. It is hard work but a worthwhile and… read more
13 Sep 2010
Left by host for Workawayer (Alice & Hannah)
Yes they are young, but they handled themselves admiringly. They were both always enthusiastic and not easily unfazed. Hard work did not put them off, and they learned to be skillful. They might still be a bit uncut, but they will become real gems.
(Good
)
13 Sep 2010
Left by Workawayer (James) for host
Bianca and Paul are very welcoming and really make an effort to make you feel part of the family. They are also very interesting, intelligent people, which meant many interesting conversations. They also have an excellent sense of humour.
The house and the grounds are simply stunning: its a real slice of authentic France.
Sometimes the… read more
The house and the grounds are simply stunning: its a real slice of authentic France.
Sometimes the… read more
13 Sep 2010
Left by host for Workawayer (James)
Jamie has a sunny nature, and he is a delight to be around and to work with. He is a hard and responsible worker, completely reliable and not easily put out by any situation. He has been excellent company, and his social skills are admirable. We recommend him to anyone he contacts! We wish him well in his future travels.
(Excellent
)
13 Sep 2010
Left by host for Workawayer (Nick)
Nick was a responsible and reliable worker at our farm. He worked both independently and together with us on a variety of different projects. He was a good listener and didn’t talk say a word too much.
(Good
)
13 Sep 2010
Left by host for Workawayer (Dermot)
Dermot is a honest, hard worker both in a team and on his own. His mechanical skills came in very handy at our farm. Once he settles in you will discover an excellent personality and he is a pleasure to work with. He is trustworthy and very friendly. We miss him. He will always be welcome to join us again.
(Excellent
)
24 May 2010
Left by Workawayer (Dermot) for host
Thank you Paul and Bianca for taking me under your wings in your place and for being so wonderfully warm and hospitable to me.With an Idyllic location and all types of anmials to care for i can honestly say it was like a little piece of Nirvana.
In all my travels its been hard to find such a place where time almost stands still,people are… read more
In all my travels its been hard to find such a place where time almost stands still,people are… read more
17 Aug 2010
Left by host for Workawayer (Georgina )
Georgie was our 1st WorkAwayer and the very reason why we became enthusiastic about the whole WorkAway idea. She did set The STANDARD, which turned out to be very high, and we have yet to experience another WorkAwayer who can match her energy, initiative, good nature and generally pleasant company. If she’d been an orphan, we would have adopted… read more
(Excellent
)
5 May 2010
Left by Workawayer (Georgina ) for host
My stay with Bianca and Paul was so fantastic I delayed my departure date at least three times and was still reluctant to go!
It was a true experience of the French country lifestyle where we all worked hard, met and socialised with the locals, slept amazingly well (including our daily siestas!), enjoyed lots of good wine, and of course,… read more
It was a true experience of the French country lifestyle where we all worked hard, met and socialised with the locals, slept amazingly well (including our daily siestas!), enjoyed lots of good wine, and of course,… read more
