Help Out at a Gorgeous Estate in Brittany, France

Details

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  Description

  —Stay for One Month (Longer Upon Mutual Agreement) Anytime from September 1, 2024 thru October 31, 2025
  
  We are an American couple who are blessed to own a beautiful historic estate on 181 acres of fields and forest in Brittany, France. Please let us know if you are interested in Reforestation/helping to build an Eco House/General Caretaking/Gardening at our property in France for a one month commitment some time during September 2024 all the way through October 31, 2025. Thanks! Terry and Ernie Monaco
  
  Asking for at least a four week commitment, longer if mutually beneficial.
  
  In compliance with the French government, we have had to cut down many trees on our property that have reached their end of life. Winter 2023/24 the trees were cut, and now we must work at reforesting our property with baby trees. We can also use help with some of the following tasks: We are attempting to build an eco-house on the property, as a showcase for 'off the grid ' living as well as to showcase artifacts found on the property. Our property was at one time headquarters for 'The Knight's Templar' in France.(Two seals of The Knight's Templar can be seen on the historic Roman Arch that is at the center of our property. We can also use help with general maintenance of the garden; keeping the forest paths clear of fallen tree debris; mow lawn (we have a ride-able lawn mower) trim hedges; plant flowers and vegetables; weeding; Knowledge of general maintenance is a plus. We also do our best to utilize those with an artistic bent...last year we had a mural completed on one of the buildings, and have other ideas in store for artists!
  
  Meanwhile, enjoy the majestic Brittany coast and sandy beaches, the walled Medieval cities of St.Malo, Vannes, and Dinan and the Medieval Festivals that that run in Vannes, Dinan in Josselin in summer 2024! Explore the nearby village of Rochefort en Terre (voted most beautiful village in France!), The Medieval villages of Malestroit, Josselin and it's gorgeous Chateau, and the Artisan village of La Gacilly, home to Yves Rocher and the largest outdoor photo exhibition in France! Explore the wonders of Carnac's Standing Stones, and visit one of the most famous landmarks in France, Mont St. Michel. If you think you would enjoy visiting and working in one of the most beautiful settings in France, please get back to us soon! If you would love to wake up everyday in the beautiful peaceful countryside on a private estate of 181 acres of field and forests; meeting and interacting with charming traditional French folk; practicing French; love the Ocean; want to be in an environment steeped in Medieval History; ....then this is the place for you! Experience the 'real' French in Brittany, as it is one of the most traditional areas of France. Thanks! Ernie and Terry
  
  Please be aware that you must, ABSOLUTELY rent/bring your own car/motorbike while you are here as our place is a bit remote. If you are coming from outside France, it is often much cheaper to rent a vehicle long term from your home country than within France. The local 'SuperU' and Carrefour supermarkets rent manual cars super cheap, but you MUST have an international drivers license to rent from them.
  
  We've had couples help us out the last number of years and have had a blast together! See testimonials.
  
  Chateau Le Mur, May 2024—My husband Neil and I, plus my sister Tricia and her partner Mike, spent 5 weeks living and working at the wonderful Chateau Le Mur in Brittany France. We spent most of our working time gardening and cleaning, however we also worked on several projects including flooring, painting. We managed our own time keeping and choose projects within our capabilities. Due to storm damage that had felled many trees Ernie and Terry were regularly off buying car loads of trees and shrubs which we helped plant. We were also busy sowing grass and flower seeds which we hope are now flourishing. During our free time we toured many beautiful towns and villages from the Normandy beaches and St Malo down to Carnac. Ernie and Terry are wonderful vibrant people, with Ernie energized with so many ideas we don't know how he sleeps at night, and Terry doing the interior decor plus nurturing and caring for everyone. Ernie and Terry were very appreciative of what we achieved and spoilt us with meals out at the wonderful La Gacilly village as well as tasty home cooked meals. We were very comfortable in the well equipped Caretaker's apartment and loved our view of the fairytale Chateau. We recommend that if you get the opportunity to stay at Le Mur and help Ernie and Terry with the upkeep of the Chateau and grounds you will thoroughly enjoy your time there. Neil and Chris, New Zealand
  An adventure of a lifetime. Spending 7 weeks in rural Brittany France was exactly what we were looking for. Having the guidance and support of an amazing couple Ernie and Terry along with Tristan made our adventure one to remember. The tasks were flexible, and prioritized which was great, owning a Chateau with manor you can imagine the list is endless. We were able to tackle some of them with painting, flooring, tree trimming, gardening, cleaning and organizing, the time simply flew by. Bill was able to get in some rather serious bike riding, while I spent time cooking up some fun French dishes in the Caretakers cottage. The view from the Chateau is breathtaking. In the evenings we would sit at the top overlooking the valley. Everything was in bloom while we were there. The yellow grapeseed fields along the villages were amazing. Bill and I were able to visit several tourist attractions, like Normandy Beach, Paris, Le Mans, Mont St. Michel, to name a few (after working each a 25-hour work week). We also, had the pleasure of having dinner at a Michelin restaurant in La Gacilly at the "Les Jardina Sauvages" for Easter. Our communication with both Ernie and Terry was awesome, they are extremely engaged, fun, positive, appreciative and wonderful to work with. If you want an adventure in living abroad for a short time this is your opportunity. We would love to come back in the very near future. Thank you, Terry, Ernie, and Tristan, for allowing and trusting us with your most precious Chateau. Terry and Bill, United States, 02 July, 2024
  
  Amazing visit in Brittany—We spent 5 weeks in February - early March 2024 at Ernie and Terry's interesting Chateau and mansion. Our goal was to see more of this part of France (Brittany) and hopefully improve our French. Both goals accomplished! The property contains a lot of buildings and the owners creativity has generated a long list of tasks to be accomplished. We discussed the list with Ernie and Terry and picked some we thought looked interesting and where we had the right skills. Whenever a problem appeared or we needed some advice, the owners where always available for advice and quick to decide. A typical week we worked with the tasks a couple of days, interrupted with visits to the small villages nearby for shopping etc. Then we left for a few days to see more of Brittany, a truly interesting part of France! We highly recommend this place for anyone willing to invest some work-hours for the opportunity to see a really interesting place. Håkan and Monic, Sweden, 30 June, 2024
  
  It's an adventure...While we have completed several housesitting assignments throughout the United States, this was an experience unlike any other. The property is in the beautiful countryside only minutes from small quaint villages entrenched within the history of mediaeval France and walled cities with their unbelievably picturesque gardens. Within a couple hours drive to the beaches of Normandy and Mont St Michel in the north or to the stones of Carnac in the south. This is definitely small town country living, where there is a different famers market to visit every weekend near the small town of Carentoir. Where you can purchase everything from a fly swatter to Champagne (Cremont) at the local Super U and the Patisserie where they create some of the worlds best confectionary treats. Ernie is the whimsical one with Terry being more down to business and Tristan, the fun and energetic 10 year old grandson, all are incredibly welcoming and helpful. They truly believe in creating the "Mediaeval Experience." Tammi and I had originally signed up for a month long stay when an opening became available for 2 months we accepted. Over the months of July and August we were involved in several projects, as well as, day to day chores. We have a bit of a construction background along with several years of home improvement and maintenance experience. We repaired water damage in the ceiling and walls of the twin room in the Chateau including paint and wallpaper. Also worked with the other caretakers in converting an open attic space into a more usable space, with flooring, cupboards and stairs. Mowing, weeding, tree trimming, pressure washing are all daily chores we used to fill our days. There seems to never be a lack of work and all/any up to the individuals own skill level and pace. We always had something to do but also made sure to take time to enjoy and explore France! The evening happy hours on the lawn with the barbecues under the Roman Arch were some of the most fun; however, the best part of this experience has to be the people we met. After months of working together, exploring the country and just spending time with the other caretakers we created friendships that will last forever.
  William & Tamara , United States, 31 August, 2023
  
  Chateau Le Mur, Brittany, France June 2023—Buried in the rural Brittany countryside is this wonderfully eclectic chateau. My wife and I spent 4 weeks working on the grounds and buildings here. Ernie and Terry, the owners were resident when we were there which worked out well as they could help set priorities and respond to questions immediately and did a lot of work themselves. Ernie and Terry are Americans who have owned this place for 20 years and it’s a home for them. They were warm and welcoming, imaginative and enthusiastic. They were very flexible about how and when we worked our hours. Plenty of physical work to do there; trimming hedges, cutting grass with a ride on lawn mower and weed whacked’ removing weeds and undergrowth cutting and planting. We stayed in one of the “Manoir” apartments (a building which is separate from the Chateau) and right next to a working dairy farm. (We loved getting fresh milk from the farmers.) Good experience for folks who are handy, flexible, adaptable and willing to pitch in. The chateau is isolated and rural, so you absolutely want to have your own car but there are lovely villages and towns throughout the region of Morbihan and we found the local Breton people were helpful and down to earth. You don’t have to be able to speak French, although it’s always helpful if you can. Simon and Amy, United States, 09 July, 2023
  
  
  Chateau du Mur—When we signed up for a mind my house assignment at a French Chateau, we had no idea what lay ahead. We had never done anything like this before and did not know whether it would be an enjoyable experience or suit us as a retired couple. We did an online interview with Ernie and Terry who put our minds at ease and agreed a five week stay to fit in with our family commitments. But even still it is only when you arrive that you really appreciate a place. We were met by an amazing American couple who introduced us to the place. We spent five weeks living in the lovely medieval Manoir with modern facilities beside the Chateau. Work involved ensuring the grounds were maintained i. The commitment was for 25 hours per week but the great teamwork and friendly environment made the time go by very fast. We preferred to work in the morning and explore the neighbourhood in the afternoon, but that is an individual choice. At no stage were we pressured or overworked. The Manoir and chateau are surrounded by beautiful countryside of farming and forests with lots of cycling and walking trails. It is very rural and quiet and although you are close to all amenities a car is essential. We used the Chateau bikes and explored the surrounding countryside and local small towns. Highly recommended for cyclists of every standard is a very easy cycle along the Nantes to Brest canal. We drove to St Martin Sur Oeust and from there cycled both directions out and back, one day towards Josselin and another day towards Redon. Ernie, Terry and Tristan are very open, friendly and relaxed and we shared great times with them. We had a really great time in Le Mur, we thoroughly enjoyed the experience and have made new friends and many memories that we will cherish forever. Merci et Au Revoir. Anna, Ireland 22 July, 2022
  
  Wonderful Experience—Cass and I just returned from France after our very assignment and it couldn’t have been any more perfect. After applying for the assignment, we were able to have a virtual visit with Ernie and Terry. We immediately felt a connection and were confident that this would be a great adventure. The first few days were spent getting familiar with their beautiful property and understanding what needed to be done. We were also fortunate to share our assignment with another caretaker and make new friends along the way. Ernie and Terry were on site for the first part of our stay and were always available to answer any questions. They were so kind, thoughtful and welcoming that we immediately felt comfortable with them. They talked to us about the projects they were interested in accomplishing and then basically let us decide which ones to complete during our stay. We really loved being a part of maintaining such a beautiful and historic property. We also appreciated the written descriptions and instructions for repeat procedures like yard maintenance . Along the way, we had time to relax, ride bikes, go for long walks and explore many of the beautiful Medieval towns in Brittany. We will never forget our time in France at the peaceful and charming Chateau Le Mur. Thanks for everything! Cass and Suzanne, United States, 21 September, 2021
  
  
  A Peaceful Escape in Challenging Times—This year was the second year that we have been fortunate enough to complete an assignment at Chateau Le Mur. Ernie and Terry Monaco, the owners, are a fantastic couple who dearly love their beautiful French home and its amazing grounds. Sadly, Ernie and Terry were unable to travel to France this year due to the Covid epidemic, but they were always contactable via either Skype, e-mail or the WhatsApp group that Terry set up for us all. They are extremely easy to work with. Their instructions were always clear, the work interesting and not demanding, and the plus side is that – when they are in residence – they are a fun, friendly, couple who love to entertain and socialize with their caretakers. The work is interesting, varied and not onerous. We were fortunate enough to spend time with another caretaker couple, who were very good company and really easy to work with. It was nice at the end of the day to socialize with them, sharing experiences and putting the world to rights. We liaised over days off, to ensure that there was always someone on the property, which enabled all of us to explore this beautiful region. The Chateau is set in a peaceful area of Brittany, with stunning historical towns to explore, all within easy reach. Legends and folklore abound in this region, and the Broceliande forest is a good place to start. The Chateau is also in easy reach of two towns, both with supermarkets, a 10-15 min drive away. Thank you Ernie and Terry for entrusting your beloved Le Mur to us. We do hope that we will able to see you again - in person next time. Wyndham and Donna, United Kingdom, 01 October, 2020
  
  Wonderful Chateau Le Mur near Carentoir—We recently had the privilege of looking after this beautiful Chateau and estate in Brittany for Terry and Ernie. Unfortunately Terry and Ernie could not be there due to COVID-19. So we had the whole magical place to ourselves. We thank them both for entrusting us to look after their home. We spent 5 fantastic weeks there and were left to run our own schedule and take on projects that we enjoyed doing. Terry and Ernie were great when we needed to contact them and the whole region was a delight to explore. Thank you for enriching our lives and we would love to back in the future. We also managed to make great new friends during our last couple of weeks. Edel and Colin, United Kingdom, 07 September, 2020
  
  Paradise in Brittany—In March 2020, whilst pet sitting in the Loire Valley France, we were caught in the COVID-19 lockdown. After a month, the host made his way home and we searched for a new safe haven. Just at this time Terry and Ernie were looking for caretakers for their Chateau Le Mur. For us this could not have been a better opportunity to isolate and still be able to stay outdoors working in the Spring sunshine. Unfortunately, because of restricted travel, we were not able to share this time with a second caretaker couple. After a month of lockdown, when restrictions eased for our remaining four weeks, we were able to explore stunning Brittany. In addition to the recommended towns on the Chateau Le Mur website, we also enjoyed (en route to Vannes), Hennebont and Auray. With the coronavirus pandemic still very much at its height, we were living in an extraordinary time, where illness and frightening headlines made us appreciate the simple pleasures of life. We were very fortunate to work in an environment surrounded by beautiful architecture, gardens and bird life. The work on this very large estate was plentiful but it was also rewarding. Reconnecting with nature during this very stressful time was absolutely the best therapy and we were grateful for this opportunity. Thank you Terry and Ernie. We hope you make it back to your much loved Chateau Le Mur soon. Kathy and Mark, Australia, 18 June, 2020

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  Types of help and learning opportunities

  Art Projects

  Help with Eco Projects

  Gardening

  DIY and building projects

  Animal Care

  Help around the house

  General Maintenance
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  UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve

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  What's this?
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  Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

  Experience the 'real' French in Brittany, as it is one of the most traditional areas of France. If you love: to wake up everyday in a beautiful peaceful countryside; meeting and interacting with charming people; practicing French; love the Ocean; want to be in an environment steeped in Medieval History; ....then this is the place for you!

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  Help

  Maintenance of garden and historic buildings . We also need to replant hundreds of trees as many were cut down in 2023/24. If you have experience with any of the following please let us know as that's always a real plus! We are also trying to build a small eco-house on the property in order to showcase archeological artifacts found on the property. Plastering, basic plumbing, wall paper stripping and painting; Carpentry help; Decorative painting; cleaning, gardening and grounds maintenance. When ever we can, we will be onsite to work along side you!

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  Languages spoken

  English: Fluent
  French: Intermediate

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  Accommodation

  For a married couple/two friends: A lovely 1 bedroom fully furnished apartment, with kitchen, living room and full bathroom in our 14th Century Manoir; utilities and free internet included as well as firewood for the working fireplace. We have recently completed a dormitory that include two full bathrooms and a full kitchen in the historic Manoir so that we can better host up to 6 singles adults . Dorm will be available and will be divided male/female as of summer 2025.

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  What else ...

  Please be aware that you MUST, ABSOLUTELY, 100% rent/bring your own car/motorbike while you are here. Sorry! It just doesn't work any other way as we are a bit remote! If you are coming from outside France, it is often much cheaper to rent a vehicle long term from your home country than within France, or from the local Super U grocery store (which is very cheap!—we can help you with that!)
  
  Enjoy the majestic Brittany coast and sandy beaches, walled Medieval cities such as St.Malo, Vannes, and Dinan. Medieval Festivals that that run in Vannes, Dinan in Josselin in the spring, summer and fall! Explore the nearby village of Rochefort en Terre (voted most beautiful village in France!), The Medieval villages of Malestroit, Josselin and it's gorgeous Chateau, and the Artisan village of La Gacilly, home to Yves Rocher and the largest outdoor photo exhibition in France! Explore the wonders of Carnac's Standing Stones, and visit one of the most famous landmarks in France, Mont St. Michel. I
  
  f you think you would enjoy visiting and working in one of the most beautiful settings in France, please get back to us soon! If you would love to wake up everyday in the beautiful peaceful countryside on a private estate of 181 acres of field and forests; meeting and interacting with charming traditional French folk; practicing French; love the Ocean; want to be in an environment steeped in Medieval History; ....then this is the place for you! Experience the 'real' French in Brittany, as it is one of the most traditional areas of France. Thanks! Ernie and Terry

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  A little more information

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    Internet access

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    Limited internet access

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    We have pets

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    We are smokers

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    Can host families

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  Can host digital nomads

  We would love better internet!!!...and hope to get it sometime in the near future. We are in a remote setting, but we have just had folks just recently stay here summer 2024) who have had to work everyday online and they have told us the internet was fine for them.

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  Space for parking camper vans

  We have plenty of space to park

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  How many Workawayers can stay?

  More than two

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