Profile information
Host rating
65 %
Last replied
7 Apr 2024
Reply rate
72.2 %
Usually responds within 23 days
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Details
Description
Hi, we are Maria and Paul. We spend our time between our home in Dublin City centre and now increasingly at our traditional Irish farmstead in the Wicklow mountains near to the town of Rathdrum (with a direct train to Dublin).
Until 2020 there was no running water nor electricity on site and the previous owner lived there all his life in that manner.
Our project is to sensitively renovate the traditional cottage and outbuildings and we are also completing a new-build eco house in the footprint of the original hay barn. We also intend to maintain and improve the land, plant native woodland and create a sanctuary for native wildlife.
The 30hectare farm is a mixture of arable land, bog and native woodland. There are panoramic views of the Irish countryside and is teeming with wildlife such as deer, rabbits, pheasants, kites and other birds.
There is also a wood-fired sauna on-site.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Language practice
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
DIY and building projects
General Maintenance
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
We are native English speakers, also both speak French and have a keen interest in other languages. Very happy if a stay with us can include an element of language exchange.
Paul is a conservation architect and Maria an environmentalist and art history graduate, we can share knowledge of Irish traditional culture and other interests.
The farm is situated in a region rich in Irish history, with Rathdrum being the birthplace of Charles Stewart Parnell, the famous Irish nationalist. Nearby there are many famous tourist sites including hiking at Glenmalure and Glendalough.
Help
We are keen to welcome travellers to help alongside us and contribute to our project.
Tasks might include helping with the renovation of the traditional cottage, light landscaping or gardening, tidying sheds, preparing firewood, help establishing a composting system etc.
If you have specific skills / knowledge there should be plenty of opportunities to use them.
Languages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
French: Intermediate
Irish: IntermediateThis 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
Sleeping accommodation is provided in a vintage VW camper van (T3 Westfalia High Top) which is parked directly adjacent to the main property, a few meters from a door. The camper itself is hooked up to 220v mains electricity. Shower, toilet and full cooking facilities are available in the main property next door. High speed wifi available. Outdoor wood fired sauna available for use.
Breakfast and lunch supplies will be provided in one of two fully equipped kitchens in the main building. As far as possible we would aim to share the evening meal together, schedules permitting, if not alternatives will be provided. There is plenty of venison from the property available for meat eaters.
What else ...
There is a train station nearby in Rathdrum offering easy access to Dublin, and we can provide bicycles and transport to nearby towns.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
Full fiber internet connection direct to the property
Space for parking camper vans
We can accommodate campervans on site, with electricity etc.
Can possibly accept pets
This host has said they are willing to accept those travelling with a pet.
How many Workawayers can stay?
One
Hours expected
Maximum 4-5 hours a day, 5 days a week
