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Help in a family farm in the middle of Padana Plain, Northern Italy

Italy
Last activity : 13 Jun 2025

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100 %
Last replied
17 Apr 2025
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Availability

2025

Min stay requested: 1 month or more

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Details

Description
Our farm is located in the heart of the Po Valley in Northern Italy. It is very close to the Po and Oglio rivers and the cities of Mantua and Sabbioneta. It is also about 50 minutes from Verona and Lake Garda.

If you like peace and quiet and the countryside, it is definitely the right place for you. We are far from the city, immersed in the countryside of the Po Valley. Next to the farm there is also a small grove, planted by our family where it is nice to get lost in small walks and thoughts.

Our family has been running the farm for more than a century, but in the in the last 25 years we have shifted away a bit from farming by been offering educational activities for children during the spring .

The family is now small, and the farm only has three inhabitants: Vanni, Virginia and Virginia's sister, Maura, a lovely woman who sometimes needs some company.

We are looking for someone who is willing to stay with us for an extended period of time (1 months or more)
Types of help and learning opportunities
Charity Work
Art Projects
Language practice
Elderly Companionship
Teaching
Gardening
Animal Care
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Help with Computers/ Internet
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
...
...
What's this?
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
Unfortunately, we do not speak languages other than Italian very well, only a little bit of English, French and German. For this reason, we ask our Workawayers to be little in Italian, especially so that they can talk to Maura, since she does not speak other languages.

We also have a small vegetable garden and some raised beds with vegetables on the farm, which you are welcome to use. If you are passionate or interested in gardening, here there is a lot to do and learn. There are also some wild herbs in the fields that we sometimes like to gather to enrich our dishes.

Vanni works with wood and other materials, he is an all-around man in addition to being a History buff and more. There is certainly no shortage of opportunities to learn with him!
Projects involving children
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
Help
We are looking for help specifically with Maura. From Monday to Friday, she spends the day at a day care center for the elderly and we are looking for someone who would like to spend a few hours with her when she comes home; chatting, taking her to feed the chickens, reading the newspaper, baking pies or vegetables from the garden, and sometimes drawing with her. Since going to the day care for adults she has discovered her artistic vein and she likes to spend some time drawing on paper.

In the spring and fall we have a few schools coming to visit the farm and learn about agriculture under the guidance of Farmer Vanni. If you are interested, you are more than welcome to help during these visits.
Languages
Languages spoken
Italian: Fluent
French: Intermediate
German: Beginner
English: Beginner
This host offers a language exchange
Desideriamo imparare inglese
Accommodation
You will have your own room in the manor house which is divided in two floors. The upper one where Vanni and Virgina live and the lower one where Maura lives. The bathroom is shared with Maura and the kitchen with the family but we like our Workawayers to have their independence and feel free to have lunch and dinner at their leisure. Certainly, sharing some meals together is always appreciated. Wifi is available.
What else ...
Within 15km there are the UNESCO world Heritage cities of Mantova and Sabbioneta, while other places such as Verona, Lago di Garda, Cremona and Parma or Ferrara are not far. The landscape is very flat and there are lots of low-traffic roads so it's ideal for visiting the area by bike. Some of our guests even did day trips to the Garda lake by bike!
A little more information
- Internet access
- Limited internet access
- We have pets
- We are smokers
- Can host families
Can host digital nomads
You will have your own private room with a good Wifi connection.
Space for parking camper vans
We have plenty of space, with electricity outlets and water faucets easily accessible.
How many Workawayers can stay?
One

Host ref number: 581889962211

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Feedback (32)

13 Jun 2025

Left by Workawayer (Naira) for host

There are no words to describe how incredible my time at the farm has been. This was my first workaway experience, where I was due to stay for one month.. Eventually, we extended by 2 months because the synergy was so good. Virginia, Vanni, Maurizia and Billy are the most heart-warming beings i met in a long time, always there to support the… read more

(Excellent )

2 Mar 2025

Left by Workawayer (Jonas) for host

It was a wonderful time i spent here, it lasted 1 month but flew so fast. vanni, virginia and maura were incredibly welcoming, always explaining, teaching and patient with me. I learnt Italian, the fundamentals in there, and really wanted to only speak this language.

My time was during February, before spring, and did a lot of diverse work in… read more

(Excellent )

31 Dec 2024

Left by host for Workawayer (Johanne)

Questa ragazza, alla sua prima esperienza WorkAway, ci ha ancora una volta confermato quanto per noi sia eccezionale e bellissima la nostra avventura di Host , iniziata nel 2010.
Nonostante sia molto giovane , Johanne ha mostrato una maturità e una sensibilità non comuni.
Ha compreso la situazione ambientale e della nostra famiglia e si è… read more

(Excellent )

28 Dec 2024

Left by Workawayer (Johanne) for host

(ENG) I had planned to stay one month at the farm; I ended up staying two (oct - nov). As asked in the profile, my main mission was to spend the end of afternoon/evening time with Maurizia, the lovely sister of Virginia : we listened to music, drew, went to check on the chickens, baked, took care of sheets and clothes if needed, put up Christmas… read more decorations... so many different little tasks! On top of that, during the day, I did some small work to help Vanni and Virginia, ranging from helping storing wood, painting a rainbow to very light house maintenance, if something needed to be done. Vanni and Virginia always asked me if it was alright for me to do, I was never burdened with anything, never felt like it was too much, on the contrary.

The location is, as described, pretty much in the middle of the countryside. For people who like walking in nature, in the nearby woods, with crows and animals roaming around, it's perfect. Within their garden, they have chickens, rabbits and a dog who is quite amazingly always happy to see you (hi Billy!). Every sunday I was asked if I wanted to go to the city: they either drove me or took me to the train station, so that I could visit Mantova, Verona, Parma, all lovely cities nearby. If you're looking to practice your italien, it's great, since you can talk to a variety of people: Vanni, Virginia, Maurizia, Cenira (hi!!), and other cousins, postmen, visitors etc. The chamber I was given is on the ground floor: it's wide and spacious, has a desk, everything you need. You'll be sharing the bathroom with Maurizia, and as long as you respect her space and time in the morning, there's never gonna be any issue.

Overall the most important aspect of my stay, the one I took away, was the warmth of my hosts. Vanni is always ready to talk to you about the history of the farm, the region, Italy, the inner workings of the farm, architecture, ecology, teach you new things, all with a solid sense of humor. Virginia was gracious, so generous with her time and gifts, made sure I understood what was going on (esp in the first weeks), how things worked, etc. Maurizia was a core element of my day, reassuring in her routines, sharing stories about her day, her life, she's a strong and sweet temper; our moments spent drawing were relaxing. To have an optimal stay, I'd recommend speaking a minimum of Italian to be able to talk with Maurizia and V. & V. (who are always patient in repeating themselves if needed; they've had a bit of practice over the years!).

This was my first workaway experience. I was so nervous coming in, had no idea what to expect. I genuinely could not have dreamt better hosts. It's no wonder so many workaways come here, retain contact and come back throughout the years. Vanni, Virginia, Maurizia, I'm so grateful for you hospitality within your home and family, your sense of humor, your grace and generosity. Thank you so much.
Love to you all.

(ITA) Avevo programmato di rimanere un mese alla fattoria; alla fine sono rimasta due (ott - nov). Come chiesto nel profilo, la mia missione principale era trascorrere la fine del pomeriggio/sera con Maurizia, la sorella di Virginia. Ascoltavamo musica, disegnavamo, andavamo a controllare le galline, cucinavamo, ci prendevamo cura di lenzuola e vestiti se serve, preparavemo le decorazioni di Natale... tanti piccoli lavoretti diversi! Oltre a ciò, durante il giorno, svolgevo alcuni piccoli lavoretti per aiutare Vanni e Virginia, dall'aiutare a riporre la legna, a dipingere un arcobaleno fino alla manutenzione molto leggera della casa, se c'era bisogno di fare qualcosa. Vanni e Virginia mi chiedevano sempre se andava bene per me farlo, non mi sono mai appesantita di nulla, non ho mai sentito che fosse troppo. Al contrario.

La posizione è, come descritto qui, praticamente in mezzo alla campagna. Per chi ama passeggiare nella natura, nei boschi vicini, con corvi e animali in giro, è perfetto. Nel loro giardino hanno galline, conigli e un cane che è davvero sempre felice di vederti (ciao Billy!). Ogni domenica mi chiedevano se volevo andare in città: o mi accompagnavano oppure mi portavano alla stazione dei treni, così potevo visitare Mantova, Verona, Parma, tutte città bellissime nelle vicinanze. Se vuoi praticare il tuo italiano, è fantastico, dato che puoi parlare con una varietà di persone: Vanni, Virginia, Maurizia, Cenira (ciao!!), e altri cugini, postini, visitatori ecc. La camera che mi è stata assegnata è al piano terra: è ampio e spazioso, ha una scrivania, tutto il necessario. Condividerai il bagno con Maurizia, e finché rispetti il suo spazio e il suo tempo alla mattina, non ci saranno mai problemi.

Nel complesso l'aspetto più importante del mio soggiorno, quello che ho portato via con me, è stato il calore dei miei ospiti. Vanni è sempre pronto a parlarti della storia della fattoria, della regione, dell'Italia, del funzionamento interno della fattoria, dell'architettura, dell'ecologia, a insegnarti cose nuove, tutto con un solido senso dell'umorismo. Virginia è stata gentile, così generosa con il suo tempo e i suoi parole, si è assicurata che capissi cosa stava succedendo (specialmente nelle prime settimane), come funzionavano le cose, ecc. Maurizia era un elemento centrale della mia giornata, rassicurante nella sua routine, condividendo storie riguardo alla sua giornata, alla sua vita. Ha un carattere forte e dolce; i nostri momenti trascorsi a disegnare sono stati rilassanti. Per avere un soggiorno ottimale consiglio di parlare un minimo di italiano per poter parlare con Maurizia e V. & V. (che sono sempre pazienti nel ripetersi se necessario; hanno fatto un po' di pratica negli anni !).

Questo era la mia prima workaway esperianza. Stavo così nervosa arrivando, non avevo nessun idea di cosa aspettarmi. Sinceramente non avrei potuto sognare migliore hosts per il mio soggiorno. Non c'è da stupirsi, perché tanti workaway mantegano i contatti e ritornino nel corso degli anni. Vanni, Virginia, Maurizia, sono veramente grata per la vostra ospitalità nella vostra casa e famiglia, per per il vostro senso dell'umorismo, per la vostra grazia e generosità. Grazie mille.

Un grande abbraccio a tutti !

(Excellent )

View all 32 feedbacks

Photos

The image shows a group of children and adults gathered around a wooden enclosure containing several white rabbits, with one child taking a photo.

The image depicts a group of children and adults gathered in a courtyard, with a large building in the background and a clear blue sky above.

The image depicts a group of people, including children, boarding a yellow and white striped wagon in a wooded area. The wagon features a metal frame and a wooden interior.

The image depicts a group of children seated at a long table, intently listening to a man standing before them, likely in a rustic setting.

The image depicts a group of people gathered around a table in a kitchen, with a woman rolling out dough on a wooden board.

The image depicts a group of children gathered around a fence, feeding a cow in a field, with trees and a building visible in the background.

Feedback

These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.

Accuracy of profile:
(4.9)

Cultural exchange:
(4.9)

Communication:
(5.0)

13 Jun 2025

Left by Workawayer (Naira) for host

(Excellent)

2 Mar 2025

Left by Workawayer (Jonas) for host

(Excellent)

31 Dec 2024

Left by host for Workawayer (Johanne)

(Excellent)

28 Dec 2024

Left by Workawayer (Johanne) for host

(Excellent)

9 Sep 2023

Left by Workawayer (Sandra) for host

I spent 2 great weeks on the family farm surrounded by tomato fields in a peaceful landscape and could really recalibrate. The work was interesting and rewarding and Vanni told and showed me many interesting things, as he is looking back on a 30 years long rich experiences. The farm used to be an educational farm and is extremely well organized.… read more

(Excellent)

22 Apr 2023

Left by host for Workawayer (Davina)

Grazie Davina per il tuo soggiorno presso di noi. Anche per noi è stata una piacevole esperienza. Sei una persona seria , professionale e appassionata. Le tue molteplici competenze sono state di grande aiuto. Ti auguriamo il meglio per il tuo futuro.
BUON VIAGGIO
Un abbraccio da vanni, virginia e maurizia

(Excellent)

21 Apr 2023

Left by Workawayer (Davina) for host

Une première expérience workaway chez Vanni, Virginia e Maurizia très sympathique. Ils sont très pédagogues. Ils prennent le temps de tout vous expliquer que ce soit sur le plan du travail à faire ou sur l'histoire des lieux, les traditions etc. Mes missions consistaient essentiellement à
participer aux activités avec les enfants, s'occuper des… read more

(Excellent)

7 Oct 2022

Left by Workawayer (Roberta) for host

I spent a wonderful time at this family and farm and I got to see and learn many things about this reality immersed in the countryside. Becoming part of this family has been a personal pleasure and I hope I have contributed with my "little" help. A warm greeting to Maura and a hug to Virginia and Vanni.

(Excellent)

5 Sep 2022

Left by Workawayer (Claudia) for host

Texto em português:
O período em que estive na fazenda de Vanni e Virginia foi bellíssimo!
Aprendi a trabalhar no jardim, na horta, a fazer várias receitas doces e salgadas, e também ajudei na recepção e café da manhã do casa de hóspedes, melhorando meu italiano... fiz muitos amigos!
A familha estará sempre no meu coração, principalmente… read more

(Excellent)

25 May 2022

Left by host for Workawayer (Edison Miguel)

Miguel è un ragazzo preciso, volenteroso e affidale. Disponibile a collaborare a nuove esperienze. Si è integrato bene nelle nostra famiglia . Sempre pronti ad accoglierlo per nuove esperienze.Virginia, Vanni , Maurizia e…Billy

(Excellent)

26 Apr 2022

Left by Workawayer (Edison Miguel) for host

[ENGLISH]
I really thank Vanni and Virginia for welcoming me in their home. I learned a lot from them. They're generous people and they made sure I was very comfortable there.
Tasks:
I mostly helped Vanni with their didactic activities with the kids. The kids come to their farm to learn about farm life, making bread, about animals, about the… read more history of the place, about how plants grow and the significance of the color green in nature. I learned a lot about these things and Vanni also shared a lot of his knowledge about different things. I also helped with gardening - taking care of the vegetable garden and clearing and cultivating the soil to create a new garden. I also painted some chairs. I cooked lunch for them once and I'm happy they liked it. We mainly spoke in Italian so it really helped me improve my Italian and my knowledge of their interesting culture.
Location:
Their place has a good location. It's away from the busy city but still very close to Mantova. I used their bike a lot to visit beautiful villages and also to bike to Mantova. Vanni also drove me to Mantova and they encouraged me to visit Verona. There are nice bike trails and beautiful walks to do around Marcaria.
Accommodation:
They gave me a big room and I'm more than happy staying there. Nights were warm and tranquil.

[ITALIANO]
Ringrazio davvero Vanni e Virginia per avermi accolto nella loro casa. Ho imparato molto da loro. Sono persone generose e hanno fatto in modo che mi trovassi molto bene lì.
Il Lavoro:
Per lo più ho aiutato Vanni nelle attività didattiche con i bambini. I bambini vengono alla loro fattoria per imparare la vita in fattoria, a fare il pane, gli animali, la storia del luogo, come crescono le piante e il significato del colore verde in natura. Ho imparato molto su queste cose e anche Vanni ha condiviso molte delle sue conoscenze su diverse cose. Ho anche aiutato con il giardinaggio - prendendomi cura dell'orto e ripulendo e coltivando il terreno per creare un nuovo giardino. Ho anche dipinto alcune sedie. Una volta ho cucinato il pranzo per loro e sono felice che gli sia piaciuto. Abbiamo parlato principalmente in italiano, quindi mi ha davvero aiutato a migliorare il mio italiano e la mia conoscenza della loro interessante cultura.
La posizione della fattoria:
Il loro posto ha una buona posizione. È lontano dalla città trafficata ma comunque molto vicino a Mantova. Ho usato molto la loro bicicletta per visitare bei villaggi e anche per andare in bicicletta a Mantova. Vanni mi ha anche accompagnato a Mantova e mi hanno incoraggiato a visitare Verona. Ci sono belle piste ciclabili e belle passeggiate da fare intorno a Marcaria.
L'alloggio:
Mi hanno dato una grande stanza e sono più che felice di stare lì. Le notti erano calde e tranquille.

Grazie mille Vanni e Virginia 🙏🏼🙏🏼

(Excellent)

19 Apr 2021

Left by host for Workawayer (Daniel & Tamara)

Daniel è un giovane molto interessato ad apprendere le tecniche agricole e della manutenzione di una fattoria; sempre disponibile per ogni tipo di attività ; ha dimostrato una grande capacità di adattamento e di rapporti amichevoli con la famiglia ; quando è partito ci è dispiaciuto , ma era per raggiungere la moglie Tamara; speriamo che tornino a… read more

(Excellent)

16 Apr 2021

Left by Workawayer (Daniel & Tamara) for host

Vanni, Virginia and Maurizia I can only say Thank you so much.

I'll like to mention that this was my first workaway experience, so I went with an open mind willing to learn but with a not so clear idea of what to expect, saying this, I do believe that I got lucky in been allow to share and learn from such a lovely and caring family.

From the… read more moment I arrive, Vanni and Virginia make me feel welcome and make sure that I had everything needed for a comfortable stay. The farm and location is a perfect place to be if you truly want to connect with nature and learn from the Emilio - Lombardia region. Vanni is a walking encyclopedia who have a passion for teaching about the culture and traditions no only of his region but also from Italy and Europe.

Work/life balance on the farm is more about cultural exchange and learning skills than anything else, Vanni and Virginia are excellent teachers with a lot of patience who explain everything to make sure you learn as much as you can. If you are a dog lover you will fall in love with Billy, the house dog, who is one of the funniest and lovely little dogs I have ever meet.

I can only advise that a good level of understanding of Italian is highly advised to make the most of your experience as they do not speak English.

A trip is already on the plans to go and visit the farm along with my family :).

---

Vanni, Virginia e Maurizia posso solo dire Grazie mille.

Mi piacerebbe ricordare che questa è stata la mia prima esperienza di lavoro, quindi sono andato con una mente aperta desiderosa di imparare ma con un'idea non così chiara di cosa aspettarmi, dicendo questo, credo di essere stato fortunato ad aver avuto il permesso di condividere e impara da una famiglia così adorabile e premurosa.

Dal momento in cui arrivo, Vanni e Virginia mi fanno sentire i benvenuti e si assicurano che avessi tutto il necessario per un soggiorno confortevole. La fattoria e la posizione sono un luogo perfetto dove stare se vuoi veramente entrare in contatto con la natura e imparare dalla regione Emilio - Lombardia. Vanni è un'enciclopedia ambulante che ha passione e amore per l'insegnamento della cultura e delle tradizioni non solo della sua regione ma anche dell'Italia e dell'Europa.

L'equilibrio vita / lavoro in fattoria riguarda più lo scambio culturale e le capacità di apprendimento che altro, Vanni e Virginia sono ottimi insegnanti con molta pazienza che spiegano tutto per assicurarsi che tu impari il più possibile. Se sei un amante dei cani, ti innamorerai di Billy, il cane di casa, che è uno dei cagnolini più divertenti e adorabili che abbia mai incontrato.

Posso solo consigliare che un buon livello di comprensione dell'italiano è altamente consigliato per sfruttare al meglio la tua esperienza in quanto non parlano inglese.

È già in programma una gita per andare a visitare l'agriturismo insieme alla mia famiglia :).

(Excellent)

5 Dec 2020

Left by host for Workawayer (Judith)

Judith è stata accolta in questa fattoria durante il lockdown di novembre 2020 . Ha un bel carattere e ha tante qualità : molto intelligente, educata, paziente , precisa, determinata. I Genitori hanno fatto un ottimo lavoro. Noi Pensiamo di averla accolta come una figlia e crediamo che lei abbia fatto una positiva esperienza, compatibilmente con… read more

(Excellent)

2 Jul 2020

Left by host for Workawayer (Christina)

Christina è una ragazza veramente brava. Molto determinata nella costruzione del suo percorso di vita. Studia molto, ascolta molto, osserva molto, lavora molto. Sarà perfetta per un ragazzo altrettanto maturo. Scusate se siamo andati un poco sul personale ma è una ragazza splendida splendente. Siamo contenti di averla conosciuta e Le Auguriamo… read more

(Excellent)

1 Jul 2020

Left by Workawayer (Christina) for host

I spent nearly a month at the wonderful place. From the very beginning, Vanni and Virginia were excellent hosts - organized, clear, and reliable. Life at the farm is the perfect balance of structured and free-flowing. They created a schedule that was fair and helped me organize my own time, but there was also plenty of flexibility and variety so… read more

(Excellent)

23 Apr 2019

Left by Workawayer (Helen) for host

Sì, il tempo in fattoria con Vanni è stato meraviglioso per me come un vecchietto. Le cinque settimane con Vanni e i bambini. Che si tratti di bambini in età scolare o all'asilo, è stato bellissimo. Cuocere il pane è molto facile e gli occhi dei bambini come faccio io. La gioia quando le capre venivano a correre e ai bambini era permesso di dar… read more

(Excellent)

23 Apr 2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Helen)

Helen è rimasta con noi un mese; ha collaborato in tutte le attività della fattoria didattica con grande partecipazione; entrava facilmente in rapporto con le maestre e i bambini delle scuole.
Ci ha lasciato un ottimo ricordo e speriamo di rivederla ancora quando tornerà in Italia.
Grazie.

(Excellent)

26 May 2018

Left by Workawayer (Carosambado) for host

Una bellissima esperienza da imparare in fattoria con i bambini. Il posto è bellissimo, molta pace. La famiglia ti fa sentire a casa e Vanni ti spiega e ti insegna con molta pazienza.
Ho imparato molto italiano!

(Excellent)

24 Apr 2018

Left by Workawayer (Robson & Natacha) for host

La fattoria era nostra casa per un mese. Vanni, Virginia, nonna Rosa, Maurizia e Billie (cagnolino) sono una famiglia incredibile. Ci sentiamo parte di questa bella famiglia.
Io e Natacha abbiamo piaciuto tantissimo di aiuture con la fattoria.
Di solito dal Lunedì al Venerdì arrivano i bambini con il pullman, dove se imparano tante cose su… read more

(Excellent)

11 Aug 2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Klara)

Klara è stata una bravissima ospite della ns fattoria; ha partecipato ad ogni momento delle attività. E' riuscita ad addomesticare due piccole caprette molto timide ! E' una ragazza buona, tranquilla e molto intelligente. Le auguriamo tanti buoni viaggi e un bel futuro per la sua vita !

(Excellent)

29 Jun 2017

Left by Workawayer (Klara) for host

Vanni and his wonderful family made me feel so welcome! He made sure I was always involved in the days activities and I got to experience working with children, handling small animals, riding on farm vehicles, and bread-making! Vanni was essential in helping me improve my very basic Italian and was always there to make sure I was happy and… read more

(Excellent)

11 Aug 2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Camilla)

Camilla è stata una ospite molto motivata e interessata alla nostra attività con i bambini delle scuole. Ha preso parte a tutte le attività della fattoria : gli animali, il bosco , il vigneto, i bambini e le maestre, ecc.......... . Ha collaborato volentieri insieme a Klara, un'altra workawayer inglese presente in quel periodo.
E' una ragazza… read more

(Excellent)

10 Aug 2017

Left by Workawayer (Camilla) for host

I was very lucky at my first Workaway. Vanni, Virginia, Maurizia and Grandma Rosa are people with great heart. I've been to this beautiful farm for 40 days (May and June). From Monday to Friday had children in primary and maternal schools. The work was not hard, it was very empty for me. I drived the tractor (thanks for Vanni's confidence). I… read more

(Excellent)

29 Jun 2017

Left by host for Workawayer (ALEXANDER)

Alex è una bella persona: intelligente, preciso, disponibile, serio ma con grande senso dell'umorismo.
Ha partecipato con interesse e passione ad ogni attività. Entra in rapporto facilmente con tutte le persone.
(Ci ha lasciato le sue scarpe, forse per tornare a riprenderle !?! )
Con lui abbiamo avuto un'ottima esperienza. Se vorrà tornare lo… read more

(Excellent)

26 Jun 2017

Left by Workawayer (ALEXANDER) for host

I had a wonderful typically Italian, educational and rewarding few weeks with Vanni and his lovely family. It was exactly the type of thing I was hoping to find through workaway.
Vanni is an intelligent man with a passion for history and his region. He is a very calm chap with a great sense of humour and a generous nature.
The work was a nice mix… read more

(Excellent)

25 Apr 2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Eléa)

Heléa e Axel, una coppia unita e affiatata, disponibile e molto interessata a tutto ciò che succede nella fattoria.
Auguriamo un grande futuro, in bocca al lupo.
Buona vita.
Vanni e Famiglia

(Excellent)

3 Apr 2017

Left by Workawayer (Eléa) for host

Tre settimane eccezionali con una famiglia straordinaria in un posto bellissimo !
Grazie per tutto !!

(Excellent)

31 Oct 2016

Left by Workawayer (Malgorzata) for host

Similar to some people here - it was my first experience with Workaway and it couldn't be better! I've spent two great weaks with Vanni and Famiglia (La Nonna Rosa, Maurizia, Virginia and Billy the dog that I really fell in love with:).

This is a great place, surrounded by nature, full of history (the trattoria was built in XVII century) but also… read more

(Excellent)

5 Jul 2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Marja)

Maria è una persona solare e' stato un vero piacere averla nostra ospite. Ha partecipato con entusiasmo a tutte le attività'. UN GRAZIE DI CUORE

(Excellent)

2 Jul 2016

Left by Workawayer (Marja) for host

L’ospitalità della famiglia è stata benissima! è una fattoria autentica e molto bella. Vanni mi ha insegnato tante cose. La fattoria e la storia d’Italia sono le sue passioni. Vanni e il suo moglie abitano in una città vicina. Tutte le mattine i bambini sono venuti alla fattoria.
Ho anche aiuto la Nonna Rosa nella cucina. Lei è molto carina! Ho… read more

(Very good)

1 Jun 2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Workaway member)

Gabriela è stata una ottima workawayer . Ha partecipato a tutte le attività della fattoria con interesse e disponibilità. Ha avuto un approccio positivo con i bambini e con le insegnanti. E' una persona molto sensibile che si è inserita bene nella famiglia, in particolare con zia Maurizia e nonna Rosa. Le siamo riconoscenti e la ringraziamo… read more

(Excellent)

28 May 2016

Left by Workawayer (Workaway member) for host

Era la mia prima esperienza con workaway e mi piacuto molto a stare per tre settimane da Vanni e famiglia.
Ho dato un mano a Vanni con i bambini che vengono sul pulman ogni giorno. Poi ho potuto aiutare una volta a fare legno, ed al vigneto, ed anche in orto. Il lavoro non era mai faticoso.
Mi piacuto anche molto a vedere il entusiasmo dei… read more

(Excellent)

15 Jul 2015

Left by Workawayer (Matthew) for host

Grazie mille Vanni, Maurizia, e Nonna Rosa! Sono stato nella fattoria per un mese, e stato una vero esperienza Italiana. Ho aiutato Vanni con la studenti che vengono ogni giorno durante la estate. Guidavo la trattore, avevo dato una mano quando la bambini preparato la pasta per fare pane, ho cucinato il pane nella forno di legno, e giocato e… read more

(Excellent)

5 Jun 2015

Left by host for Workawayer (Matthew)

Matthew è un ottimo ragazzo; disponibile, molto sveglio e intelligente, impara subito le cose da fare; è simpatico e ha un feeling particolare con le nonne (nonna Rosa); ha anche grande capacità a entrare in rapporto con le maestre ed anche con i bambini;

(Excellent)

6 Jul 2015

Left by Workawayer (Ryuhei) for host

Ciao a tutti!!! Per cominciare anzitutto la ringrazio della Sua gentilezza!!! Grazie a voi, ho potuto fare tante esperienze prezioso. Per esempio, ho toccato con i animali, ho fatto grissini con la farina e ho potuto vedere la città bella come Mantova. Poi Avete accolto me sempre come la tua famiglia. posso ritornare a portare benissimo… read more

(Excellent)

5 Jun 2015

Left by host for Workawayer (Erik)

Erik è molto attento a capire la situazione in cui si trova; è stato molto interessato alle scuole che sono arrivate alla fattoria; credo che abbia apprezzato la semplicità della vita contadina; ottimo elemento, molto preciso e ordinato; bravo pilota di trattore.

(Excellent)

3 Jun 2015

Left by Workawayer (Erik) for host

Ciao a tutti. I stayed almost 2 weeks and I had a superb experience! Every day there were schools and classes visiting the farm. So the main job was to support Vanni during the day teaching the classes the Fattoria life.. Kids were shown where grain is coming from and were getting the idea and feeling how to make bread.
I was lucky enough to… read more

(Excellent)

1 Apr 2015

Left by host for Workawayer (Eleanor)

(Neutral)

4 Sep 2014

Left by Workawayer (Peter) for host

I spent 2 weeks in Cesole in August and I was made to feel very welcome by the family. Unfortunately because it was summer there were no school trips, but the work was not too difficult. Vanni has a real passion for his work and loves to explain all aspects of life on the farm. Lunch was always delicious and there was never a problem with food… read more

(Excellent)

6 Aug 2014

Left by Workawayer (Alev) for host

I was so lucky to spend 3 amazing weeks with this family at their farm house in July 2014. It was my first workaway experience, and it couldn’t have been better! The family is extremely kind and very friendly, very helpful all the time. You have your own room and kitchen, which are clean and comfortable. The kitchen is always full of delicious… read more food thanks to lovely Virginia.
Your responsibilities here include doing light maintenance work which you can imagine easily what it would be like at a family farm house (such as planting, pruning, helping with small tasks), feeding the animals (there are cute rabbits, a small friendly dog Bebbi, chickens, two cows), and helping Nonna Rosa (she is possibly the sweetest Italian grandma!) and gentle Maurizia in the kitchen or in the lovely vegetable garden. The work you do is really light, and it felt like was playing a sort of game for me, I had so much fun being close to nature, picking food from the garden and help cooking them for lunch, or feeding chickens/rabbits while admiring their cuteness…
It was summer time when I went there, so the schools were closed, and I wasn’t able to experience that didactic part of the farm with school children, but I’m sure it would also be so much fun.
The communication and organisation run perfecty here thanks to Vanni. He explains patiently and kindly all aspects of life at the farm in an interesting and informative way. You will also have pleasant conversations about Italy, Italian culture and life in general with all members of the family, and they are always willing to help you with your Italian. I learned lots of new words thanks to them! :)
The family is so kind as to drive me to the train station, so that I could travel around at the weekends, then picked me back. I am so thankful about it. They also took me to Mantova a couple of times and Sabbioneta to visit these historically and culturally important locations.
There is wi-fi working fine, so you’re easily connected with the rest of the world :)
In short, I felt like a part of the family from the very first moment of meeting them and spent awesome time at the farm in a peaceful environment. I am so thankful to this lovely Italian family!
If you also love working in nature, are interested in learning about Italian kitchen (for example, we made very delicious marmalade with the apples and pears from the garden, also different types of Italian crackers and grisini, as well as preparing jars of vegetables for winter ), love animals, wish to practise Italian, are willing to learn how things work at a farm, this is definitely the right place for you.

(Excellent)

6 Jul 2014

Left by Workawayer (Johannes & Anna) for host

We had a nice time being at Corte Calvagnina. Especially the work with the children we enjoyed a lot. Every group is different and so is every day. During days where there were no kids, we usually helped out Vanni with getting tasks for the farm done (e.g. cutting wood or feeding the cows). In general Vanni is really flexible concerning the… read more

(Very good)

29 Jun 2014

Left by Workawayer (Terhi) for host

I had a great time with all the people working and visiting the farm! During my stay there was every day a school class visiting the farm and learning new things - making bread and seeing animals and gremlins. And being with the kids offered great circumstances for learning italian!

(Excellent)

29 Mar 2014

Left by Workawayer (Cameron) for host

I cannot recommend this workaway highly enough to anybody who is looking to work hard but reap the benefits that the family are always willing to share with you. Lunchtime conversation is always lively with Nonna Rosa, and whilst we did work a lot Vanni's approach is never hurried and he explains all aspects of farm life as he goes. The work is… read more

(Excellent)

18 Nov 2013

Left by Workawayer (Nina) for host

We had a wonderful two weeks at the farm! Even though we didn't speak italian, when we got there, Vanni patiently explained a lot of things to us about the life on the farm. It was very interesting to make things such as cheese, bread and wood (for the stove) ourselves. We recommend this place to anyone who loves nature and wants to learn more… read more

(Excellent)

1 Nov 2013

Left by Workawayer (Paula) for host

I've learned and experienced so many new things that I just don't know where to start...
I stayed at the farm this october where mainly arrive schoolclasses to learn something about wine, corn or milk.
Like the children also I experienced how to make ricotta, helped to produce juce out of grapes and tasted the first time in my life "Polenta",… read more

(Excellent)

13 Oct 2013

Left by Workawayer (Felicia) for host

In this italian family you feel as part of the family from the first moment. Vanni invest a lot of time to show us how beautiful the nature is and how you can live in it - and with it. We had wonderful (mostly own harvested!) food, freetime and nice trips to some festivals.
The most impressing were the words of Vanni: " i do not want you to work… read more

(Very good)

22 Sep 2013

Left by Workawayer (Lisa) for host

Vanni and his Family is really welcoming.
I learned many interesting things (e.g. making your own paper).
The nature arround the farm is beautiful.
I had a really great time with Vanni and his Family.

(Excellent)

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Help in a family farm in the middle of Padana Plain, Northern Italy

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