updated   Last minute

Re-enchanting the world with a new holistic vision of life in Sigoyer, France

Profile information

  • rating

    Host is looking for help immediately

  • rating

    Host rating

    100 %

  • Last replied

    Last replied

    28 Mar 2026

  • Reply rate

    Reply rate

    100.0 %

    Usually responds within 1 day

  • feedbacks

    Feedback

    4

  • ID verified

    ID verified

  • Email verified

    Email verified

Country info

If you are not an EU Citizen and planning to visit France to work, volunteer or study, YOU WILL NEED THE CORRECT VISA. To find out more information please contact the embassy in your home country BEFORE travelling.

Badges (4)

Facebook verified
Email verified
Good Host
ID verified
Give the gift of Workaway
read more

Availability

  2026 

 Min stay requested: at least a week

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Details

  • Description

    Description

    🌿 – Place of water, consciousness and living creation

    Welcome to Cougourdane.
    I am Emmanuel, architect committed for more than 35 years to an ecological, sensitive and integrative approach to architecture. After a dense professional life between Paris and major public projects, I chose to anchor my research in this exceptional place in the Alpes de Haute-Provence, on a plateau of 4 hectares overlooking the valley of the Durance.

    The landscape is vast here.
    The silence is deep.
    And the place is in transformation.

    Cougourdane is not just a rural area.
    It is a laboratory of the living.

    🌊 Living water, care and habitat of tomorrow
    Here I develop projects around living water with EAULISTIC : ecological basins, research on vortexes, water care, energy experiments and natural geometries.

    The place is intended to become:
    - a reception area for internships and retreats
    - a place of deep healing
    - a transmission center around water and care
    - a field of architectural experimentation (light habitats, domes, geometric structures, ecological constructions)

    We also develop autonomy in all its forms:
    - food (potter, orchard, chickens), energy, natural health.
    Beauty is a core value here.

    It must be present in every gesture, every layout, every creation.

    🌿 The spirit of the place
    Cougourdane is a sensitive place, which I consider to be high vibration.
    I want to welcome people:
    - aligned with a consciousness of the Living
    - capable of gentleness and respect
    - stable and responsible
    - committed to what they undertake
    - ready to contribute with initiative and rigour

    It is not just agricultural volunteering.
    It is an immersion in a transformation and creation project.
    Coming here is a privilege — and a mutual commitment.

    🔨 What we can create together
    Depending on the season and projects:
    - maintenance and development of the vegetable garden
    - care of animals
    - landscaping
    - participation in experimental architectural projects
    - logistical assistance during internships or events
    - projects around water and basins

    I gladly transmit my knowledge in ecological architecture, biomimicry, living geometry, sustainable design and entrepreneurship.

    💻 Digital skills welcome
    I also look for profiles with skills in:
    - animation and creation of websites
    - video creation
    - graphic design
    - PowerPoint presentations / investor supports
    - communication and social media strategy

    Our projects are evolving: a structured and creative digital help is particularly valuable.
    ask us for the websites

    🏡 Accommodation
    Accommodation varies according to the season and availability:
    - comfortable caravan in the middle of nature with toilet space
    - tent or converted van
    - room in the house (outside internship periods and subject to availability)

    We adapt the reception according to the dynamics of the moment.

    🤝 The Exchange
    Woofing is a clear and balanced exchange.
    I welcome you, lodge you, feed you and transmit my experience to you.
    In return, I wait:
    - real engagement
    - discipline and consistency
    - respect of the place
    - autonomy
    - constructive spirit
    The initiative is welcome. Immaturity is not.

    🌞 For whom?
    This place will be particularly suitable for:
    - students in architecture or eco-construction
    - digital creatives (graphics and webdesign)
    - people sensitive to interior development
    - therapists or care practitioners
    - creative profiles loving to build concretely
    - people in transition looking for a time of clarification

    If you are only looking for accommodation in the countryside, this place probably will not be suitable.

    Cougourdane is in the making.
    If you feel the impetus to contribute to the birth of a space dedicated to water, beauty and harmony, write to me by telling me about you with sincerity.
    Looking forward to co-creating. 🌿

    ---

    🌿 – Lieu d’eau, de conscience et de création vivante

    Bienvenue à Cougourdane.
    Je suis Emmanuel, architecte engagé depuis plus de 35 ans dans une approche écologique, sensible et intégrative de l’architecture. Après une vie professionnelle dense entre Paris et de grands projets publics, j’ai choisi d’ancrer ma recherche dans ce lieu exceptionnel des Alpes de Haute-Provence, sur un plateau de 4 hectares dominant la vallée de la Durance.

    Ici, le paysage est vaste.
    Le silence est profond.
    Et le lieu est en transformation.

    Cougourdane n’est pas seulement un domaine rural.
    C’est un laboratoire du Vivant.

    🌊 Eau vivante, soin et habitat de demain
    Je développe ici des projets autour de l’eau vivante avec EAULISTIC : bassins écologiques, recherche sur les vortex, soin dans l’eau, expérimentations énergétiques et géométries naturelles.

    Le lieu a vocation à devenir :
    - un espace d’accueil pour stages et retraites
    - un lieu de ressourcement profond
    - un centre de transmission autour de l’eau et du soin
    - un terrain d’expérimentation architecturale (habitats légers, dômes, structures géométriques, constructions écologiques)

    Nous développons également l’autonomie sous toutes ses formes :
    - alimentaire (potager, verger, poules), énergétique, santé naturelle.
    La beauté est une valeur fondamentale ici.

    Elle doit être présente dans chaque geste, chaque aménagement, chaque création.

    🌿 L’esprit du lieu
    Cougourdane est un lieu sensible, que je considère comme à haute vibration.
    Je souhaite accueillir des personnes :
    - alignées avec une conscience du Vivant
    - capables de douceur et de respect
    - stables et responsables
    - engagées dans ce qu’elles entreprennent
    - prêtes à contribuer avec initiative et rigueur

    Ce n’est pas un simple volontariat agricole.
    C’est une immersion dans un projet de transformation et de création.
    Venir ici est un privilège — et un engagement réciproque.

    🔨 Ce que nous pouvons créer ensemble
    Selon la saison et les projets :
    - entretien et développement du potager
    - soin aux animaux
    - aménagement paysager
    - participation à des projets architecturaux expérimentaux
    - aide logistique lors de stages ou événements
    - projets autour de l’eau et des bassins

    Je transmets volontiers mes connaissances en architecture écologique, biomimétisme, géométrie du vivant, conception durable et entrepreneuriat.

    💻 Compétences digitales bienvenues
    Je recherche également des profils ayant des compétences en :
    - animation et création de sites web
    - création vidéo
    - graphisme
    - présentations PowerPoint / supports investisseurs
    - communication et stratégie réseaux sociaux

    COSTE Architectures et EAULISTIC sont en pleine évolution : une aide digitale structurée et créative est particulièrement précieuse. ( ------ )

    🏡 Hébergement
    L’hébergement varie selon la saison et les disponibilités :
    - caravane confortable en pleine nature avec espace toilette
    - tente ou van aménagé
    - chambre dans la maison (hors périodes de stages et selon disponibilité)

    Nous adaptons l’accueil en fonction des dynamiques du moment.

    🤝 L’échange
    Le woofing est un échange clair et équilibré.
    Je vous accueille, vous loge, vous nourris et vous transmets mon expérience.
    En retour, j’attends :
    - engagement réel
    - discipline et constance
    - respect du lieu
    - autonomie
    - esprit constructif
    L’initiative est bienvenue. L’immaturité ne l’est pas.

    🌞 Pour qui ?
    Ce lieu conviendra particulièrement à :
    - étudiants en architecture ou écoconstruction
    - créatifs digital (graphisme et webdesign)
    - personnes sensibles au développement intérieur
    - thérapeutes ou praticiens du soin
    - profils créatifs aimant bâtir concrètement
    - personnes en transition cherchant un temps de clarification

    Si vous cherchez uniquement un hébergement à la campagne, ce lieu ne sera probablement pas adapté.

    Cougourdane est en devenir.
    Si vous ressentez l’élan de contribuer à la naissance d’un espace dédié à l’eau, à la beauté et à l’harmonie, écrivez-moi en me parlant de vous avec sincérité.
    Au plaisir de co-créer. 🌿

  • Types of help and learning opportunities

    Types of help and learning opportunities

    Help with Eco Projects
    Gardening
    DIY and building projects
    General Maintenance
    Help with Computers/ Internet
    House & pet sitting
  • Interests

    Interests

    Farming
    Self development
    Vegetarian or vegan
    Van life
    Sustainability
    DIY & crafts
    Drawing & painting
    Photography
    Plant care
    Architecture
    Yoga / Wellness
    Hiking
    Nature
  • UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve

    UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve

    UN goals
    No poverty
    Zero hunger
    Good health and well-being
    Quality education
    Gender equality
    Clean water and sanitation
    Affordable and clean energy
    Decent work and economic growth
    Industries, innovation and infrastructure
    Reduce inequality
    Sustainable cities and communities
    Responsible consumption and production
    Climate action
    Life below water
    Life on land
    Peace, justice and strong institutions
    Partnerships for the goals
  • Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

    Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

    Learn French for foreign travellers. Training in ecological architecture and creation of living ecological basins. Learning autonomy solutions: vegetable garden, construction, DIY, ...

    ---
    Apprendre le français pour les voyageurs étrangers. Formation en architecture écologique et création de bassins écologiques vivants. Apprentissage des solutions d’autonomie : potager, construction, bricolage, …

  • Help

    Help

    I would like to actively participate in the work of the garden and vegetable patch, as well as the general maintenance of the property (cleaning, landscaping, etc.). Depending on the needs, there may also be DIY tasks, such as wood projects or the diy of eco-friendly shelters.
    ---

    Je souhaite une participation active aux travaux du jardin et du potager, ainsi qu'à l’entretien général du domaine (nettoyage, aménagement, etc.). Selon les besoins, il peut également y avoir des travaux de bricolage, comme de la menuiserie, construction d'habitats écologiques.

  • Languages

    Languages spoken
    French: Fluent
    English: Intermediate

    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.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation

    Travelers are accommodated in a pretty recent caravan with a double bed, a sitting area and a small kitchen. Those who come to Van or in a tent are also welcome and can use outdoor sanitary facilities. Depending on the period, they can be accommodated in the house.
    Meals will be organized collectively by adapting to everyone's eating habits. Those who prefer to cook can access the kitchen and refrigerator free of charge.

    ---

    Les voyageurs sont logés dans une jolie caravane assez récente avec un lit double, un coin salon et une petite cuisine. Ceux qui viennent en Van ou en tente sont également les bienvenus et peuvent utiliser les sanitaires extérieurs. Selon la période, ils peuvent être logés dans la maison.
    Les repas seront organisés de manière collective en s'adaptant aux habitudes alimentaires de chacun. Ceux qui préfèrent cuisiner peuvent accéder gratuitement à la cuisine et au réfrigérateur.

  • What else ...

    What else ...

    The site is located in a magnificent natural environment with many possible walks nearby. Possibility of walking or mountain biking. Many bodies of water, rivers and waterfalls. Swimming pool on site. Musical instruments (piano, guitar, double bass, bass).

    ---

    Le site est situé dans un magnifique environnement naturel avec de nombreuses balades possibles à proximité. Possibilité de marche ou de VTT. De nombreux plans d'eau, rivières et cascades. Piscine sur place. Instruments de musique (piano, guitare, contrebasse, basse).

  • A little more information

    A little more information

    • Internet access

    • Limited internet access

      Limited internet access

    • We have pets

    • We are smokers

    • Can host families

  • Can host digital nomads

    Can host digital nomads

    I am an entrepreneur myself and I chose to live in the countryside. I very often work by videoconference and I am equipped with high-speed Internet via satellite. --- Je suis moi-même entrepreneur et j'ai choisi de vivre à la campagne. Je travaille très souvent en visioconférence et je suis équipé avec du haut-débit Internet par satellite.

  • Space for parking camper vans

    Space for parking camper vans

    The land is large enough to accommodate 1 or 2 vans on a meadow. --- Le terrain est assez grand pour accueillir 1 ou 2 vans sur une prairie.

  • Can possibly accept pets

    Can possibly accept pets

    I accept animals, especially dogs. I have two cats, chickens. There are two horses. It is essential that the cohabitation between animals goes well. --- J'accepte les animaux, en particulier les chiens. J'ai deux chats, des poules. Il y a deux chevaux. Il est essentiel que la cohabitation entre les animaux se passe bien.

  • How many Workawayers can stay?

    How many Workawayers can stay?

    More than two

  • My animals / pets

    My animals / pets

    Galatée

    Sirius

Host ref number: 228258596522

Website Safety

Chat with Workawayers who've visited this host

Feedback (4)



Photos

The image depicts a tabby cat sitting on a stone ledge, with its reflection visible in the water below, surrounded by lush greenery and plants.
The image depicts a serene outdoor pool with a stone mosaic sun design at its center, surrounded by a natural landscape and majestic mountains in the distance.
The image shows a collection of small potted plants with green leaves, arranged in various colored containers, possibly in a greenhouse or indoor garden setting.
The image depicts a serene landscape with mountains, green fields, and a cloudy sky, featuring sunbeams breaking through the clouds, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
The image depicts a serene pool scene at sunset, featuring a waterfall, stone walls, and a distant mountain range, with a warm and peaceful atmosphere.
The image depicts an older man planting a tree on a hillside, wearing a black beanie, brown jacket, and red gloves, with a serene mountainous landscape in the background.
The image depicts a man and his dog in a wooded area, with the man kneeling beside the dog, both looking to the left. The dog is black, white, and brown.
The image depicts a yurt under construction, with a wooden frame and lattice walls, situated in a rural area, surrounded by trees and a cloudy sky.
The image depicts the interior of a yurt, featuring a central opening, wooden floor, and walls adorned with a decorative lattice pattern.
Three men are building a wooden structure on a patio outside a stone house, with a field and trees in the background under a clear blue sky.
The image depicts a greenhouse with wooden beams, a dirt floor, and various plants and gardening supplies, bathed in sunlight streaming through the transparent roof.
The image depicts a lively outdoor music performance, with a band playing instruments on a stone patio, surrounded by a crowd of people enjoying the event.
The image depicts a small, green chicken coop with a sloping roof, surrounded by chickens and a waterer, situated in a fenced area with trees and grass in the background.

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:
(5.0)

Cultural exchange:
(5.0)

Communication:
(5.0)





Help on a small holding in the Mediterranean Pyrenees, France
Join our permaculture & well-being project and enjoy a natural park / Laval-Roqueceziere, France