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Description
My name is Sophie Gelin, I’m French, and I take care of a lovely house in the charming village of Saint-Aignan, nestled in the heart of the Cher Valley. This picturesque town is best known for being home to the famous ZooParc de Beauval, one of the most beautiful zoos in Europe (and the world!). Surrounded by vineyards and rolling countryside, the region offers a wide range of activities: cycling along the Cher River, visiting the Loire Valley’s stunning castles, tasting local wines at nearby vineyards, or exploring lively local markets. The area is also rich in history, with magnificent castles such as Chenonceau, Chambord, and Cheverny just a short drive away. It's a perfect place to relax, enjoy nature, and discover the rich cultural heritage of the Loir-et-Cher region.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Language practice
Gardening
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Interests
Events & social
Sustainability
Culture
Movies & TV
Music
Plant care
Books
Art & design
Photography
Languages
Cooking & food
Beach
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
Staying here offers a chance to experience authentic French village life in the heart of the Loire Valley. You'll be part of the day-to-day rhythm of the house and the region, with opportunities to speak French, learn about local customs, and enjoy traditional food and wine.
We often visit local markets, meet neighbors, and take walks through the vineyards or along the river—Workawayers are always welcome to join! You might also get the chance to explore some of the over 50 nearby castles, including iconic ones like Chenonceau, Chambord, and Cheverny, or visit the famous ZooParc de Beauval, just minutes away—ranked among the best zoos in the world.
I’m happy to share my knowledge about French culture, the region’s history, local cooking, and day-to-day life in a rural setting. In return, I love learning about other cultures, languages, and ways of life—it’s always enriching to connect with people from around the world and share ideas, stories, and laughter.
Help
The help includes things like preparing breakfast, keeping the house clean and tidy, make the beds, helping with laundry, watering plants. I'm looking for someone friendly, clean, respectful, and happy to lend a hand in a calm, welcoming atmosphere.
I’ll be helping you with the tasks, so you won’t be on your own—we’ll share the work in a relaxed and supportive way. I also love to cook and would be delighted to offer you some French cooking lessons during your stay. I'm kind of a home-chef expert 😉 and enjoy preparing traditional recipes with fresh, local ingredients. If you’re curious about French cuisine—from rustic tarts to regional dishes—we can cook (and taste!) together. It’s a fun and delicious way to learn more about the culture!
Looking forward to meeting you!
Languages
Languages spoken
French: Fluent
English: Intermediate
Spanish: Beginner
Italian: BeginnerThis host offers a language exchange
I’m especially eager to improve my English, Spanish, and start Italian, so language exchange is very welcome!
Accommodation
Bedroom:
You’ll have your own private bedroom with a comfortable queen-size bed and two windows overlooking the garden, offering plenty of natural light and a peaceful view. The room is furnished with an armoire where you can store your clothes and belongings. You’ll share a bathroom with the owner —it’s big, bright, and just next to your room. The house is quiet and cozy, ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring or helping out.
Food:
I love cooking and will be happy to share classic French recipes with you—think seasonal dishes and French traditional flavors from the region. A fresh local breakfast will be provided, and you’ll have access to the kitchen and ingredients for the rest of the day (when we will not cook together), so you’re free to prepare your own meals whenever you like. I enjoy sharing meals together when possible, but there's also plenty of flexibility and independence if you prefer your own rhythm.
What else ...
During your time off, there’s plenty to enjoy in the area! You can explore the beautiful valley, visit world-famous castles, discover local vineyards, or spend a day at the ZooParc de Beauval just nearby. It’s also a great opportunity to learn some French cooking, practice the language, and enjoy peaceful walks through the countryside.
There is a nearby train station (5 min by car), where I can drop/pick you up if needed (+ 2,5 hours from Paris by train).
At home, things are relaxed and respectful. I live simply and enjoy calm, friendly exchanges. No pets are allowed, but smoking is fine in the garden. I’m looking for a dynamic, clean, positive person who’s happy to help, curious to learn, and open to sharing good conversations (and good meals!).
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.
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
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