Experience living in a 19th-century chateau in Charente Maritime, South West France

Details

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  Description

  We are a couple in our 50's, who have been living in France for four years in a chateau which had been uninhabited for 40 years. 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.We have 3 hectares of gardens, meadow and woods. We currenty have 7 hens and six sheep. After what has happened over the last 2 years we are keen to become as self sufficient as possible, growing our own food (we have a vegetable garden and many fruit trees) and breeding chickens and ducks. Using solar and wind power is also something we are beginning to explore.

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  Types of help and learning opportunities

  Language practice

  Help with Eco Projects

  Gardening

  DIY and building projects

  Animal Care

  General Maintenance
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  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.

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  Help

  There is much to do in the grounds of the chateau from general cutting and clearing to landscaping. There are numerous old stone buildings within the grounds that are in various states of disrepair which need a bit of attention. We have a large vegetable garden which we are still establishing, so plenty to do there. If you know anything about breeding chickens or ducks then we would be interested in any advice you might have.

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  Languages

  Languages spoken
  English: Fluent
  French: Beginner

  This 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.
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  Accommodation

  A large room in the chateau with shared bathroom facilities. Good fresh food, eaten together in the large kitchen or al fresco. Not forgetting to mention plenty of free range eggs from our own hens.

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  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.

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  A little more information

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    Internet access

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    Limited internet access

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    We have pets

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    We are smokers

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    Can host families

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  Space for parking camper vans

  This host can provide space for campervans.

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  How many Workawayers can stay?

  Two

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  Hours expected

  Maximum 4-5 hours a day, 5 days a week

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