Come and help on a small regenerative farm close to Zagreb, Croatia

Details

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  Description

  Hi! We are Nenad and Marija, a middle-aged and open-minded, nature-loving couple.
  After we both spent years working abroad, we have decided to start a self-sustainable place here in the countryside where we can practice permaculture gardening, and eat fresh healthy food (our diet is mostly whole food plant-based and we avoid processed food). , and enjoy the simple life in a rural landscape. Our property is located in a small village, near Zagreb. One small dog and a spoiled cat live with us.
  
  Since we bought this property, we have been quite busy completing the renovation of an existing home, building a new wood house, feeding the soil, making the raised beds... and have planted 3000 Aronia berry bushes!
  
  There is still a lot to be done ... ongoing weeding, landscaping, organizing/making use of materials we already have for projects in the near and distant future i.e. building fences and vegetable trellises, making fruits/vegetable drying racks, finishing work in the house and around. We really love the idea of having more sustainable projects going as talent, experience, and time permits i.e. rocket stove :), outdoor shower, compost toilet....
  
  While there is always work, we really enjoy our "off-time" as well. There are so many beautiful trails in the forests nearby to explore by bike or foot (sometimes even come back with a basket of mushrooms:) You can enjoy long walks in the quiet, peaceful and untouched surroundings. Local people are very kind and friendly but not many speak english;)
  
  In our and many other guests' opinions, the sunrises and sunsets are the most amazing... what colors!...and a night sky full of stars..... you'll just have to see for yourself.

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  Types of help and learning opportunities

  Help with Eco Projects

  Gardening

  DIY and building projects

  Animal Care

  Farmstay help

  Help around the house

  General Maintenance
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  UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve

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  Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

  This is an untouched rural part of Croatia with no tourists. You can escape from the busy city lives; walk in the forests, relax or cycle on empty roads end enjoy the scenery.
  This would fit you if you don't mind being independent, working, and living alone/ or with fellow workawayers. Taking self-initiative would be greatly appreciated.
  It would be great if you have experience in permaculture gardening as we are trying to make the most of it and we are more than willing to share our knowledge with you.

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  Projects involving children

  This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.

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  Help

  We are looking for people with a strong work ethic, take the initiative and clean up after themselves.
  
  We need help with the everyday activities on the farm which vary according to the time of year. Typical tasks include tending the garden, weeding, watering, and harvesting. Other seasonal activities include preparing the garden beds, applying compost and manure, watering, fruit picking, preserving produce, and cutting and stacking firewood.
  We appreciate open and honest communication and would like to avoid any disappointments, either from your or our side.
  After 25 hours of work (5 working days) you have 2 days off, whether it is a weekend or the middle of the week (depending on the day of the week when you came to us)
  
  We share household chores ... if I (Nenad) cook then you will wash the dishes (without selective washing, please; we don't wash only the plates. The pots in which the meal was prepared to need to be cleaned as well).
  
  Every few days we alternately clean the common area and expect you to keep your room and bathroom clean and tidy.
  
  You can wash your dirty laundry in our washing machine (with your laundry detergent).
  
  And finally, if you are not interested in regenerative gardening, and you just want a vacation in the countryside, we kindly ask you to look for another host.
  
  Early risers and animal lovers are appreciated!
  Since we don't live all the time on the property, either individual who doesn't mind alone time or those that travel with a friend/significant other is the best fit.

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  Languages spoken

  English: Fluent
  Croatian: Fluent
  German: Intermediate
  Spanish: Beginner

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  Accommodation

  We offer you a bedroom with two single beds in a renovated old wooden house (new windows, doors, bathroom; kitchen and living area are in use but not completely finished as we have to lay new ceramic tiles to be completed).
  If you travel solo, there is a possibility that you might share the bedroom with another volunteer.
  
  Also, if you prefer to stay in your tent or camper van, you are most welcome to do so.
  
  When you arrive your bedroom/ sleeping area will be clean and tidy and prepared for you. Bed linen and towels will be provided. Toiletries (shampoo, bathing gel, conditioner, toothpaste) are to be provided by you.
  
  When using the water (taking a shower, washing the dishes...), please keep in mind that water is limited to some extent, as we use water from the draw-well.
  We try to keep electrical bills as low as possible and we kindly ask to have the lights turned off in rooms where no one is staying. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
  
  Internet works quite well via mobile data.

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  What else ...

  We are located just outside the small town called Dubrava, which has a local bus station from where you can take the bus to the city of Vrbovec, which is the closest mainline train station.
  Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, is a 30 minutes train ride away. The ticket costs under 4 euros and departs approximately every hour..... Plus, if you like to roam, there are various other places to go and explore for the day or overnight trip, on your days off.

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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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  Space for parking camper vans

  This host can provide space for campervans.

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  How many Workawayers can stay?

  Two

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  Hours expected

  25 hours per week to help with farm projects. Cleaning the space you use, cooking and other social activities are not part of this time.

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