Help Renovate an ancient house that was once a convent, one hour from Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal

Favourited 866 times

Host rating
Feedback
36
Last activity
11/05/2021
Nº of Facebook friends
182
Reply rate
83.3 %
Average reply time:
within 15 days
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Availability

2021

Min stay requested: at least 2 weeks

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What's this?

Details

Description
We have been workaway hosts for a number of years.You can see us as the following workaway host for Portugal:
"Looking for help in nature and fun on a Portuguese farm - near Lisboa, Portugal"

We run two workaway places.The one listed above, we run since 2009.
The other one, is Cardiga, described here.
WE ALSO NEED ELECTRICIANS, CARPENTERS, HANDYMEN, ANTIQUE RESTORERS, RESTORERS OF PAINTINGS, MASONS ETC.IF YOU HAVE A SKILL LET US KNOW, BUT YOU DON'T NEED ANY SPECIAL SKILLS TO JOIN US.

WE HAVE SPACE FOR LONG TERM VOLUNTEERS.

IF YOU ARE NOT A CITIZEN OF A E.U. COUNTRY, YOU SHOULD CARRY YOUR OWN TRAVEL INSURANCE UPON YOUR ARRIVAL.IF YOU ARE FROM ONE OF THE E.U. COUNTRIES, YOU SHOULD CARRY YOUR EUROPEAN HEALTH CARD

This particular project consists of restoring an old 12th century home.It has been in the family for over 120 years now.It is in need of restoration as described below.

WE ARE ONLY TAKING VOLUNTEERS THAT ARE AT LEAST 25 YEARS OLD
Types of help and learning opportunities
Gardening
DIY and building projects
General Maintenance
Farmstay help
Art Projects
Projects involving children
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
The little village of São Caetano is made up of about 45 small houses of which about 35 still belong to the estate.The river Tejo runs right by it so we will be able to swim in it and enjoy its vistas.Sao Caetano is inhabited by a number of local people that are happy to interact with volunteers.
Help
The project at hand consists on helping to renovate a 12th century home .It has been in the family for over 120 years and the building and gardens are in need of restoration and care.
We do mostly carpentry repairs and mortar work, repaint windows and doors, clean up, and lots of gardening .You don't need any special skills to join us.

Also in our other workaway site mentioned above:
-window shuter repairs, painting walls and windows, restoring antiques specially wooden ones etc.
-tree planting, weeding tree saplings, shrub pruning, leaf raking, mowing the grass, cleaning rooms, working in our organic vegetable garden.
Languages spoken
Bulgarian: Fluent
German: Fluent
English: Fluent
Spanish: Fluent
French: Fluent
Portuguese: Fluent
Accommodation
Volunteers stay in their own independent house in tbe village of São Caetano which is next to the working site.There are 3 bedrooms with 2 beds in each, a kitchen and a bathroom and a living room.We provide the food and volunteers do the cooking.
What else ...
This area around Cardiga has lots to see and experience in terms of historical sites, nature, local food etc.The famous Convent of Christ in Tomar, is only half an hour away by car.The estate itself is full of history that the locals are thrilled to share with volunteers.
We are near one of the main train stations in the country, Entroncamento, that will take you right downtown Lisbon in about one hour.
A little more information
- Internet access
- Limited internet access
- We have pets
- We are smokers
- Can host families
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Hours expected
5 hours a day 5 days a week

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Feedback left by and about host (36)

23/11/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Sophie & Roeby)

Great light dispostion, hard working, smart, they learn fast, good work ethics, take instructions well and try to improve things.They came up with a system when tree planting that was eficient and fast.You can rely on them to do the right thing.

(Excellent )

24/06/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Sonja)

There should be a 6 star rating in place because that is what Sonja classifies as.Honest, dedicated,hard working, eager to learn and improve things, always concerned if things are done the way you want them to be, makes sugestions to improve your ideas, works greatly on her own, also capable of leading groups of people.Polite, discreet, pleasant… read more

(Excellent )

17/09/2017

Left by Workawayer (Sonja) for host

Dear Antonio,
I really liked to be at your place, it was a great experience. Right from the beginning I fell in love with the castle, the dog and the river. It is a magical place and I deeply hope that it will experience a renaissance in a beautiful way - because this is what it deserves.
I am full of gratitude that my journey through Portugal… read more

(Excellent )

26/04/2018

Left by Workawayer (Morita) for host

I would like to thank you first. Host Antonio, thank you so much for accepting me for two weeks. The experience here was wonderful. A facility that touches nature and historic buildings, and can exchange deeply with working colleagues. I had a wonderful time. It is only two hours from Lisbon. You can experience Portugal deeply, and recommend it to… read more

(Excellent )

21/03/2018

Left by Workawayer (Nadia) for host

This is an amazing place to experience life in Portugal. The work is fun and you get a lot of free time to explore. Antonio and all the other people I've met were truly amazing! Everyone is very warm and friendly. It was a wonderful adventure, thanks!

(Excellent )

28/12/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Nadia)

Honest, hard working, responsible, always available to help, not averse to sudden changes in tasks which we need to do sometimes, reasonable and understanding, makes really clever sugestions about how to improve things, diplomatic and polite and cheerfull, got along with everybody. A real asset .We all wish Nadia returns.

(Excellent )

17/12/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (John & Samara)

John and Samara were very friendly and quite good helpers.When you engage a couple, one is usually the driving force.
John has a great spirit and allways available to help.Puts effort into what he does and very quick to learn things.Samara is very nice and friendly to everybody and a fine helper.Good couple.We apreciate your help.The food is… read more

(Good )

23/10/2017

Left by Workawayer (John & Samara) for host

Overall this Workaway was a good experience for us and we would recommend it to other travellers.

Pros
Work is quite easy and varied and the hours are set times and only 5hrs per day.
Majority of the staff are quite friendly although they don't all speak English.
The other Workawayers that we met here were all really nice and friendly and created… read more

(Good )

29/09/2017

Left by Workawayer (carolina) for host

My first experience and it was amazing. Antonio, Branca, Berta and Elisa are very kind people and patient with us, a pleasure to work with them. And the other volunteers, I'm sure that with more than one will never lose contact again. Thank you very much for everything, and I hope with all my heart to return and see how the place continues to… read more

(Excellent )

10/09/2017

Left by Workawayer (Nicolas) for host

I apologize for the late review. But, better late than never.
I spend about a month, between Cardiga's castle and the farm in Agolada Cima.
Many memories are still alive in my mind.
In the farm, I had the chance to meet an hardworking and friendly staff. Especially, the two guys who speak also french, one of them is called Celestino. They are… read more musulman, was Ramadan period, they worked unceasingly under the sun, start with sunrise finish with sunset without food and drink. Warriors!!!!! Even that, at the end of the day, they talk with us with a big smile. Garderning was our mainly work. Remuve grass, rake the leaves and some other cleaning work.
Five hours of work, never one minute more. You can take your time, no one will put pressure on you. In free time you should definitely go to the lake, escorted by the cute dog called Bulasch, or relax and enjoy the peace of that place. If you want to have a beer, there is a small village, Coruche, 10 minutes with the bus. The house is basic, but cozy, it is not a hotel, You must adapt, but propably if you are workaways, it will be easy. Two bathroom, some share bedrooms and a kitchen. Cleanning depend of the education of single workaway.
The main building is charming, could be more magnificient with some extra care. In front of it, there is an amazing garden, where sometimes take place weddings.
I have been also in Cardiga.
First impact of the house wasn't the best. The garden was very dirty and the house not clean. But, in two days, with the help of my workaways mates, we created our little and beautiful home.
You will find some friendly old neighbours, they can help you for all your troubles, they are wonderful.
A lady will leave you some fruit of her trees, healthy and delicious.
The castle has a great potential. You will see, inside, it's like be in a movie. Wonderful. The job consisted in gardening, there is a majestic garden, with beautiful orange trees and an old fountain and painting.
I lived those days with some fantastic workaways.
Julius, from Holland, reserved and polite, with a very good english, initially shy, has a great sense of humour, big laughs together.
Laura, from Germany, smart, great spirit of adaptation, always see bright side of things.
Silvio, italian like me, an uncle for us, we made long talk, very wise.
Together we have seen a local festival, in the village of Barquinha, twenty minutes by foot.
Portuguese people are very hospitable. One of them, bring us with his car to visit the templar's castle in Tomar, made us taste some local food and we met his family.
Antonio is the owner, but is extremely helpfull, very firendly with a lot of stories to tell. Ask him for whatever you need, don't worry. We also did jogging together. He is a very busy man, so his plans change often, be ready.
It was an exciting experience, magic places, which wouldn't have been so special without great people to share them.

Muito obrigado!!!!!!!!

Nicolas (asciugamano ahahah ;-) )

(Very good )

30/08/2017

Left by Workawayer (Adam) for host

Volunteering here was an incredibly rewarding experience. Although I did not spend my full two weeks there (around 4 days were spent at Antonio's farm in Agolada) it was really fascinating to see the history behind it. The accommodation is basic but if there are enough other volunteers living with you it feels homely and welcoming. The village was… read more

(Very good )

26/08/2017

Left by Workawayer (Giulia) for host

I stayed 3 weeks in Antonio's place and I want to say thanks for the trust and for everything I experienced.
This is a place out of the time and you can easily feel the deep contact with the nature and your sourrounding. You probably realise that days glides quickly if you put passion in this project.
The castel in an amazing place and you will… read more

(Excellent )

24/08/2017

Left by Workawayer (Kiara) for host

Working in the castle was an amazing experience. The castle is very beautiful and many paintings, the garden and the yards still give you at least an idea what it was like several years ago. We enjoyed spending our free time in the afternoon exploring the castle. There are many things to see.
Although Cardiga is almost a ghost city, all remaining… read more

(Excellent )

16/08/2017

Left by Workawayer (Laura) for host

After my long journey through Portugal I arrived now back at home safely. My head is full of wonderful memories and one of them is definitely my time at this beautiful place.
I know it's a bit time ago since I've been there but still I just can say: Thank you Antonio for everything!
Working in the castle felt like being in a fairy tale! Even… read more

(Excellent )

15/08/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Ivana)

Ivana was a pleasure to have around.Once we decide to do a task, she will take it to completion without a cinch.
She takes charge and responsibility for what she does.Honest, hardworker, a freethinking force of nature.You do not want to miss out on this volunteer.
The invitation has been sent for the grand opening.Stay in touch Ivana.

(Excellent )

14/08/2017

Left by Workawayer (Ivana) for host

This was my first experience and, boy, was it a good one! I had a chance to apply and practice/improve some of my skills on this project but the most amazing thing was working and wandering around the castle itself with a realization you have the keys to it! :) Like a fairytale.
Also, I have been working with several people who were always for… read more

(Excellent )

01/08/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Julius)

Julius is a polite diligent worker.He enjoys s lot of diferent tasks and is a willing learner and quick study.He keeps at it till it is finished even if the task gets a bit boring like weeding for instance.He made a scruffy looking big yard look like a tennis court, for example, and only stoped when finished.Thanks Julius.

(Excellent )

01/08/2017

Left by Workawayer (Julius) for host

Antonio offers you the opportunity to work at a beautiful, magical place. Working at Quinta da Cardiga is like going back in time. There is a lot of work that has to be done but it's not too hard and it's very satisfying to see the progress you make together with the other volunteers.
Antonio is a very nice host who has interesting stories to… read more

(Excellent )

01/08/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Kristoffer)

Kristoffer is an indepent honest commited hard worker.He enjoys completing his tasks.
Diligent, makes smart sugestions and you dont have to worry about letting him do whatever you ask him to do.On top of that he is friendly with volunteers and staff and hosts.Ah and yes, he is polite.A definite plus.Dont hesitate to accept him.

(Excellent )

24/07/2017

Left by Workawayer (Kristoffer) for host

This is a beautiful castle in a good location to explore some of the history of Portugal and get in touch with nice local people.

The work was ok and you could bring up suggestions and get heard. Antonio is a really nice host an we had some interesting conversations.
It was really amazing to be able to walk around inside the castle and clean up… read more

(Excellent )

17/07/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (silvio)

Silvio ,
I and the rest of the crew want to thank you for your great help.Thanks for the effort, the initiative, the thoroughness, the nice attitude towards host and volunteers and local inhabitants.It is nice also that you were reachable by cellphone when I was not around.That really helped.Thanks also for beeing an example to other volunteers.It… read more

(Excellent )

17/07/2017

Left by Workawayer (silvio) for host

I know a guy from Portugal, his name is Antonio !
He has a nice park next to the river, and makes your
volunteering experience fully enjoyable if you plan either
for a longer period as I did, gladly.
The cleaning was intensive at first but ended easily with
the effort of some of the most wise volunteers I had the
chance to work with. It's a… read more

(Excellent )

17/07/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Netty)

Netty is in a level all of her own.She sets a higher standard.Only need to tell her things once.
As a host, dont hesitate.If you can get her help, consider yourself lucky.
Thanks Netty, see you again.

(Excellent )

19/06/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Letizia & Michele)

Michele is a good man with a good attitude.very polite and funny.A hard worker and polite personality.A great asset to any host.Thank you very much for your help

(Excellent )

04/06/2017

Left by Workawayer (Letizia & Michele) for host

The castle is very interesting, and the job is ok. This is the perfect location if you like the interaction with a very friendly and authentic Portuguese community. Antonio is a nice host, he will leave you lot of personal space, accommodation and food. Be prepared to be involved in different tasks, and sometimes even to be moved to the other… read more

(Very good )

19/06/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Harriet)

Harriet, what a nice surprise t was to see a not, physically very big person, handling tasks to completion with such energy.Harriet is very sharp, pays attention, and once she starts something you don't have to worry about it till it is finished.She also makes smart sugestions about how to do things. If she applies, accept her.

(Excellent )

19/06/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (reza & Martina )

Thank you for your help Reza, your kind spirit was an asset to all of us.It is nice to know you enjoyed your experience here.You were really good at cutting those hedges.The garden looks great.
To any potential host, this man is a gery positive addition to your crew.Hard worker and spirit uplifting .

(Very good )

12/06/2017

Left by Workawayer (reza & Martina ) for host

I ve stayed all together about 2 weeks at Antonio's places which was about 5 days in Coruche and 8 days in Cardiga.
In Coruche,I ve really enjoyed my stay with Antonio and other workawayers as the atmospher of convent was really nice and job was also easygoing though.
We were helping in general fields about 5 hours a day and almost everysay we… read more

(Very good )

19/06/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Michal)

Michal is one of those people that can't stay idle. He likes to push himself and keep busy.Smart guy picks up things fast. Very honest about his tasks.Thank you very much for your help.

(Excellent )

17/06/2017

Left by Workawayer (Michal) for host

This place was my first experience with workaway and I had such a good time in the Monanstery. Nice work in the garden, good weather and be surround by history. Plus enough food, place where to sleep and I was satisfied. Thank you Antonie, have a good time in Portugal. Michal

(Excellent )

24/05/2017

Left by Workawayer (artur) for host

Although I applied to help with a renovation project I worked and stayed on farm and I enjoyed this. Work was easy, good accommodation. I spent there two weeks, farm itself is beautiful so is the forest we worked in.

(Excellent )

14/05/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (artur)

Artur is very independent and listens to your directions and teachings.He is very smart and a quick study.Most important he was honest in his tasks and did not cut corners.He serious about his work.He makes valuable sugestions and as a host you should listen.He has a dry sense of humour and never malicious.
A real asset.Thank you very much Artur.

(Excellent )

13/01/2017

Left by Workawayer (Daniel) for host

Cardiga is a great and beautyfull place to be ... the old castle right at the river. .. one of the things you only See one time 7n your live! I love it there and wissen i would have spent more time there.
To work in the Garden with the other voluntiers and Antonio was fun too. Hope to be back one Day ...

(Excellent )

24/09/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Kingson)

Kingson, we send thanks for your great help and positive up beat energetic attitude even under pressure on wedding days at the farm.
We know you will find good energy wherever you go, because you reap what you sow.
Best of luck!!

(Excellent )

02/09/2016

Left by Workawayer (Nick) for host

Working here was like working in a fairy tale. The property/ castle is is one of the most beautiful places I have visited in Portugal. Unlike most castle where you look but don't touch, here you actually get to leave your mark and be part of the history of the place.

Antonio who manages the place is very friendly and is laid back about what… read more

(Excellent )

31/08/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Nick)

Nick is a polite, committed hard working person. Did the tasks the way him and I agreed after chatting about it.Allways asked for guidance if he was not sure about something therefore keeping me in the loop as I was often away.He is interested in all kinds of subjects and is also a good listener.He was imediately interested in our project and gave… read more

(Excellent )

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