Profile information
Host rating
80 %
Last replied
7 Feb 2026
Reply rate
75.0 %
Usually responds within 1 day
Feedback
10
Email verified
Country info
Badges (2)
Details
Description
Hi, I live and work in this magnificent 19th Century chateau. Situated in the South West of France, surrounded by beautiful countryside but only 10 minutes drive from the lovely ancient town of Saintes and 30 mins from the coast . The area is very peaceful and a real rural retreat. I have 3 hectares of gardens, meadow and woods. I currently have hens and sheep and am keen to become as self sufficient as possible. I am currently managing the estate on my own, but have friends and Workaways visit to help out. When meeting Workaways its always interesting to hear about their country and customs. Theres always plenty to discuss. There are a wide variety of projects inside and out. I am a master builder in many areas so there is the opportunity to learn some new skills in renovating if you are interested. I am flexible as I prefer guests to carry out tasks they enjoy. There are regular visits to the chateau by local friends so you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the French culture and language. We are also close to Saintes which holds various festivals, recitals and exhibitions which may be of interest.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Language practice
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Animal Care
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
The experience of living in a French chateau in the beautiful French countryside. The opportunity to assist in all different types of tasks . We are not remote and so there are lots of interesting places to visit close by including Saintes with its Roman ampitheatre and history. If you want to learn French we have plenty of French friends and this area has relatively few English speaking residents. There will be opportunities to get involved in French life in the local community. The evening meals are often spent debating the worlds issues over a glass or two of wine.
Help
There is much to do in the grounds of the chateau including grass cutting, pruning and clearing. There are numerous old stone buildings and walls within the grounds that are in various states of disrepair which need a bit of attention. The chateau is undergoing renovation so lots of opportunity to assist.
Languages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
French: BeginnerThis host offers a language exchange
This host has indicated that they are interested in sharing their own language or learning a new language.
You can contact them directly for more information.
Accommodation
A large room in the chateau with shared bathroom facilities. Good fresh food, eaten together in the large kitchen or al fresco.
What else ...
The chateau is situated close to walking trails which pass through farmland and woodlands inhabited by wild deer and boar. We are close to the River Charente where you can kayak, hire boats or swim, which is very popular in the summer. There is an equestrian centre close by and a lovely golf course a short distance away. There are lots of markets to visit in the historic Roman town of Saintes. A lazy day can be spent on the beautiful beach at Royan or for something a bit more energetic a visit to the theme park or explore Crazannes with its stone sculptures and guided tours.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Space for parking camper vans
This host can provide space for campervans.
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
My animals / pets
Noah and Snowy
Ouessant sheep
Chat with Workawayers who've visited this host
Feedback (5)
Staying with them was an amazing experience in many ways.
I learned more about construction work, enjoyed amazing meals and met kind french and anglo-saxon friends.
The castle is really beautiful and the project very ambitious and interesting.
Five stars are not… read more
Photos
Chat with Workawayers who've visited this host
Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(4.6)
Cultural exchange:
(4.4)
Communication:
(4.6)
Staying with them was an amazing experience in many ways.
I learned more about construction work, enjoyed amazing meals and met kind french and anglo-saxon friends.
The castle is really beautiful and the project very ambitious and interesting.
Five stars are not… read more
Completely unnecessarily, as Sue and San made me feel welcome and at home in this amazing place.
They gave me choices as to the type of work, and were ok if I wanted to change jobs, as they have many tasks ongoing.
They took me to see local bands, and even though I had my own car ,happy… read more
