Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
4 Feb 2024
Reply rate
100.0 %
Usually responds within 1 day
Feedback
83
Email verified
Badges (3)
Details
Description
We are a rewilding project and sustainable living initiative in Galicia which is owned and run by a non-profit NGO. We are restoring a ruined village, growing our food organically* and felling eucalyptus to allow the native woodland to regenerate. We are creating an educational resource for people to observe and learn about wildlife in the regenerated woodland.
We provide accommodation in exchange for 2.5 hours work per day (5 days a week). The food provided is all organic and vegan and costs 8.00 euros a day to cover the cost of the ingredients. We ask our volunteers not to bring any snacks containing animal products.
In addition to the 2.5 hours work, we would like you to help with cooking, sweeping the kitchen floor, bringing firewood to the kitchen and washing-up.
We need help with clearing felled eucalyptus, renovating the ruins with natural materials, making paths through the forest, gardening, restoring an ancient irrigation system and rebuilding stone walls.
We are in the foothills of the Serra do Suido at 400 metres. There are rivers for swimming within 20 minutes walk and good walks in the mountains which rise to 1000 metres.
Because we are encouraging the balance of nature to re-establish itself in the woodland which surrounds us, we do not keep pets and we ask you not to bring your dog.
If there are two or more of you, then each person needs to write their own application email and you all need to be members of Workaway (joint membership is ok but we would still like a separate email from each of you).
The maximum stay for a new volunteer is two weeks (there is no minimum stay, you could come for a few hours just to visit). Once we know you, you can stay for any length of time.
You can read more about this project on our website (please ask us for the website address). There you will find a lot more photos and will be able to get some idea of what you would be coming to.
Please note:
*️️️️️️️️️️We are not a farm so we do not have any farm animals. We are growing a small amount of vegetables and fruit (for our own consumption) with a vegan permaculture philosophy.
*Like most rural areas we have ticks here in the woodland that surrounds us and it is quite likely that you will get bitten.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
DIY and building projects
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
Language improvement: we speak Galician, English and Spanish here and can help you with learning these languages.
You can also learn about how we are trying to live in a more sustainable way - growing fruit and vegetables vegan-organically, eco-building techniques, developing a forest garden.
Help
We need help all year round and the help is varied. Most of the help required with the eucalyptus is lopping off small branches, moving them to heaps, axing and stacking the logs. We get quite a lot of requests from people who have not read our profile. For this reason we would like you to put the following in the subject of your application message: 'native forests'. The building work is ecological renovation so materials are pleasant to work with. Restoration of the water channels involves clearing brambles and other plants and digging out the soil.
We work together as a group, 2.5 hours each morning 11am - 1.30pm, five days a week. Those of us who live here usually work longer and you are welcome to work more hours if you want to. Equally, we understand that you may prefer to go exploring the beautiful surrounding area, go swimming or just relax.
During a heatwave (temperatures above 30 degrees), we work between 9:00am and 11:30 as it can be too hot to work later in the day.
Languages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Spanish: Fluent
Galician: FluentThis 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
You can sleep in a basement, a room in the communal house or a tent and bedding is provided. There is a wood heated shower and an outdoor bath also heated by wood. The toilet is an an outdoor compost toilet. The shared kitchen has a wood burning stove for cooking but there is no fridge, nor freezer. We keep food cool in a spring. The electricity is generated by solar panels.
What else ...
We are in the mountains of Galicia and there are good walks starting directly from our hamlet. There are nearby rivers with rock pools for swimming the nearest of which is a 20 minute walk or a 10 minute bicycle ride from here (you can borrow our bikes).
It is possible to get here using public transport but the bus from Pontevedra to our village does not run at the weekends nor on Spanish public holidays. It leaves Pontevedra at 8pm on weekdays and the return bus leaves from here at 7am on weekdays.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
There is no wifi. You would have to rely on your mobile phone 4G. There is no office, you would have to work from your bedroom or use one of the outdoor tables.
Space for parking camper vans
It is important that the vehicle is not leaking any oil or other fluids. There's nowhere to empty a chemical toilet here. The nearest place is 15km away. Any grey water from your sink or shower also cannot be discharged here, unless you haven't used any cleaning products. The van should be no longer than 6 metres because it would be difficult to turn. Also there is a narrow, tree lined lane to get here, so if the van is tall it could be a problem.
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Hours expected
2.5 hours per day, 5 days a week
Host ref number: 6771814384ae
Feedback (42)
15 Oct 2023
Left by Workawayer (David ) for host
When I arrived I was taken very ill and the next day was in hospital. In that short time the help and kindness that I recieved was overwhelming. I didn't get time to see the project and do feel somewhat guilty as not being able to contribute as I had intended. So I do hope to return, both to contribute to the project and repay the kindness that I… read more
11 Dec 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Eleazar & Ana)
Eleazar was a fantastic volunteer - resourceful, happy, hard worker. His help was invaluable, especially the help he gave us with the roof which we were building. He worked well as part of a team and was good company. He took hundreds of beautiful photos and shared them with us, which was a lovely surprise. Now that we have also met Ana, we can… read more
(Excellent
)
16 Aug 2020
Left by Workawayer (Eleazar & Ana) for host
I've just realized that I did never leave a review of my stay in this beautiful project!
A year ago, in August 2019, I spent a little over a month with Emma and Barney helping mainly on the reconstruction of the roof of an old stone building, but also gardening, chopping wood with the axe or opening a jungle of wild plants opening a new pathway.… read more
A year ago, in August 2019, I spent a little over a month with Emma and Barney helping mainly on the reconstruction of the roof of an old stone building, but also gardening, chopping wood with the axe or opening a jungle of wild plants opening a new pathway.… read more
7 Sep 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Emily)
Emily was everything you could possibly want in a volunteer: she understood exactly what needed doing and did it carefully and efficiently; she knows lots about plants and gardening; is super enthusiastic about new ideas and new places to explore. We had a drought and very hot weather while she was here which meant that the plants needed watering… read more
(Excellent
)
1 Sep 2022
Left by Workawayer (Emily) for host
Emma and Barney, thank you so much! I had such an amazing two weeks at this beautiful place. Emma and Barney are such kind, welcoming people and really great to talk to. I spent many happy hours having such great conversations with them and they taught me a lot about what they do and why they do it and much, much more. I also had the pleasure of… read more
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:
(4.8)
Communication:
(5.0)
15 Oct 2023
Left by Workawayer (David ) for host
When I arrived I was taken very ill and the next day was in hospital. In that short time the help and kindness that I recieved was overwhelming. I didn't get time to see the project and do feel somewhat guilty as not being able to contribute as I had intended. So I do hope to return, both to contribute to the project and repay the kindness that I… read more
11 Dec 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Eleazar & Ana)
Eleazar was a fantastic volunteer - resourceful, happy, hard worker. His help was invaluable, especially the help he gave us with the roof which we were building. He worked well as part of a team and was good company. He took hundreds of beautiful photos and shared them with us, which was a lovely surprise. Now that we have also met Ana, we can… read more
(Excellent
)
16 Aug 2020
Left by Workawayer (Eleazar & Ana) for host
I've just realized that I did never leave a review of my stay in this beautiful project!
A year ago, in August 2019, I spent a little over a month with Emma and Barney helping mainly on the reconstruction of the roof of an old stone building, but also gardening, chopping wood with the axe or opening a jungle of wild plants opening a new pathway.… read more
A year ago, in August 2019, I spent a little over a month with Emma and Barney helping mainly on the reconstruction of the roof of an old stone building, but also gardening, chopping wood with the axe or opening a jungle of wild plants opening a new pathway.… read more
7 Sep 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Emily)
Emily was everything you could possibly want in a volunteer: she understood exactly what needed doing and did it carefully and efficiently; she knows lots about plants and gardening; is super enthusiastic about new ideas and new places to explore. We had a drought and very hot weather while she was here which meant that the plants needed watering… read more
(Excellent
)
1 Sep 2022
Left by Workawayer (Emily) for host
Emma and Barney, thank you so much! I had such an amazing two weeks at this beautiful place. Emma and Barney are such kind, welcoming people and really great to talk to. I spent many happy hours having such great conversations with them and they taught me a lot about what they do and why they do it and much, much more. I also had the pleasure of… read more
16 Jul 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Lucie)
Lucie was helpful and a good careful worker. She had a good understanding of environmental concerns and was respectful and interested in learning more about how to care for living beings.
(Excellent
)
15 Jul 2022
Left by Workawayer (Lucie) for host
I spend a bit less than one week with Emma and Barney during summer 2021.
It's was nice to share some time with them and a bit with the cute little spanish family living there as well.
We had very interesting discussions, meet with some of their very nice friends, went to a little concert in a nice place (Barney likes music).
They created this… read more
It's was nice to share some time with them and a bit with the cute little spanish family living there as well.
We had very interesting discussions, meet with some of their very nice friends, went to a little concert in a nice place (Barney likes music).
They created this… read more
15 Aug 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Sasha)
Sasha was a really good help, reliable and worked thoroughly and carefully.
He was also great company and we enjoyed many interesting evening chats.
We'd love him to come back and hope that it won't be too long before we see him again.
He was also great company and we enjoyed many interesting evening chats.
We'd love him to come back and hope that it won't be too long before we see him again.
(Excellent
)
5 Aug 2021
Left by Workawayer (Sasha) for host
Although I was only with Barney and Emma for roughly a week, it was an amazing and insightful experience. Emma and Barney are a lovely couple with a great commitment to an inspiring way of life out in the Galician countryside. It was very easy to adjust to their schedule and way of life and it was a pleasure spending time with them, sharing… read more
31 May 2021
Left by Workawayer (Soraya) for host
Visiting Val de Rodas village was like discovering a paradise on earth. I enjoyed working as a team in their wild forest, chopping and storing firewood or picking sweety cherries. I have really appreciated helping Emma and Barney cooking so tasty vegan dishes and improving their Galician and Spanish. They are all in the community kind-hearted,… read more
15 Aug 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Ocean)
Ocean was an ideal volunteer- she was positive and cheerful about everything, worked way more than the expected hours and worked well and thoroughly.
We were sad to say goodbye and look forward to seeing her again.
We were sad to say goodbye and look forward to seeing her again.
(Excellent
)
14 Aug 2019
Left by Workawayer (Ocean) for host
This is an incredibly beautiful project and one which I would happily recommend to anyone. Days pass by in a sort of tranquil blur as you throw yourself into the work, explore the forests, marvel at the old buildings and get to know the village's inhabitants Barney and Emma, a wonderful couple from England doing their best to reduce their mark on… read more
24 May 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Anne)
Anne is such a sweet, considerate and helpful person. Always aware of everyone around her and looking for ways to make life easier and more comfortable for others.
She worked carefully moving wood, cleaning, weeding, sowing seeds and generally making the place tidier. Organised and dependable and above all cheerful, making us all feel happy. We’d… read more
She worked carefully moving wood, cleaning, weeding, sowing seeds and generally making the place tidier. Organised and dependable and above all cheerful, making us all feel happy. We’d… read more
(Excellent
)
24 May 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Jolanda & Paul)
Jolanda and Paul were very hard working and reliable, approaching every task with enthusiasm, competence and dedication. They moved a whole load of sticks downhill and a huge tree trunk and lots of logs for firewood uphill. They also did a lot of weeding and scything and left the house beautifully clean. Friendly and respectful of our time and… read more
(Excellent
)
21 May 2019
Left by Workawayer (Jolanda & Paul) for host
We had a wonderful stay with Emma and Barney in Galicia. They are such kind-hearted and friendly people. We loved Emma’s vegan cooking: every dish she cooked was delicious! Also we could never have enough of Barney’s cakes and cookies (sugarfree!!). We helped them with moving logs (and one entire tree) up and downhill, using the scythe to create… read more
8 May 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Michael)
We so happy that Michael came to volunteer with us. He is such a kind hearted, trustworthy and respectful person that you immediately feel relaxed in his company. He was also a great volunteer working well with forestry work and some demolition. We only wish he could have stayed longer and hope to see him again before too long!
(Excellent
)
22 Apr 2019
Left by Workawayer (Michael) for host
I am so grateful to Emma and Barney for the experience I had. It is such a beautiful and thoughtful place; every day I woke up to the sound of birds chirping, bees buzzing, fresh air, and hot porridge with all the fixings. Emma is a fantastic and creative cook, and I've never eaten better -- being vegetarian, it was so nice to not have to ask for… read more
8 May 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Jan)
Jan stayed with us for three weeks and the time passed so quickly. Calm and friendly, he was good company for all of us. He has great strength and worked hard demolishing a cracked wall, old stove and a chimney (which involved climbing onto the roof), moving loads of rubble in the process. Also he moved a heap of stones uphill efficiently and lots… read more
(Excellent
)
7 May 2019
Left by Workawayer (Jan) for host
This place is so much more than a mere "workaway". At risk of coming across ebullient and repeating evalation lingo: I cannot rate this place highly enough!
I stayed there for three weeks and could may well have stayed longer if I'd had more time. I am sure I will be back at some point, and this is no idle talk...one fellow volunteer suggested,… read more
I stayed there for three weeks and could may well have stayed longer if I'd had more time. I am sure I will be back at some point, and this is no idle talk...one fellow volunteer suggested,… read more
3 May 2019
Left by Workawayer (Helen) for host
Being in Emma and Barney's eco-village was an incredible experience - during my 9 days there the changing weather created so many different atmospheres - rain and wind on my first few days, and even a night of thunderstorms made it feel so alive and wild, and the sunny hot days felt totally tranquil. In all the different weather patterns, it felt… read more
2 May 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Helen)
It has been a delight to have Helen volunteering here. She is totally reliable, she works consistently, is great company and got on well with the other volunteers. Helen, you are welcome back any time!
(Excellent
)
29 Oct 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Andrea Natan & Eleonora)
Natan and Eleonora have been to stay with us twice this year - in April and again this month. Both visits were exceptional. They are strong, hard workers who work well together and they dedicated themselves to moving the eucalyptus logs we cut last winter up and across three terraces and then nearer to the houses, moving tons of wood up hill by… read more
(Excellent
)
24 Aug 2018
Left by Workawayer (Andrea Natan & Eleonora) for host
We went to Galicia to learn something more about sustainable living and rewilding with modest expectations. We were wrong: the reality there was much better. Actually, Emma and Barney taught us many things about what does it mean to live an ethical existence with a low ecological footprint. We spent a lot of time not only helping for a brave and… read more
12 Sep 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Justin & Deanna)
We were sad to say goodbye to Justin and Deanna. They were so friendly, relaxed and easy to get along with that the time passed quickly and left us feeling like we'd had a holiday, even though we had all been working hard. They work very well together and are good at working around any problems which arise and finding solutions. Both of them are… read more
(Excellent
)
1 Aug 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Abigail)
Abigail and her friend Katie were great fun to have around and helped us tremendously, working hard, reliably and carefully. They engaged enthusiastically with the work, understanding why it was important and to top it all, they sang together with voices like angels, writing and singing a song to celebrate the project. Abrazos grandes a las dos!
(Excellent
)
28 Jul 2018
Left by Workawayer (Abigail) for host
Volunteering here has been one of the most amazing and transformative experiences of my life so far - Barney and Emma are probably the coolest people I've ever met, and working alongside them on the project was inspiring. The work was rewarding, the location was jaw-droppingly beautiful, but most importantly the company was brilliant. I'll forever… read more
15 Dec 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (An & Iñigo)
An and Iñigo helped us with various tasks including clearing up the logs and sticks from eucalyptus felling, removing brambles, planting strawberry plants and making a beautiful gate. They were pleasant company and reliably did the work as explained to them. We recommend them as volunteers and wish them all the best with their travels.
(Excellent
)
11 Dec 2017
Left by Workawayer (An & Iñigo) for host
Barney and Emma are amazing people with a grand vision. It was amazing to participate in making their vision come true. It was so nice to work on various tasks and learn new things every day. We were so pleased to have access to organic and whole foods. We understand so much better what harm the eucalyptus does to our native forests and are so… read more
11 Nov 2017
Left by Workawayer (Eliot) for host
This review is a little overdue (apologies Emma!). I came to stay with my girlfriend Anais in August and had the best time staying and working here. As Barney was away we spent most of our time with Emma who was lovely and a joy to meet. We learned a lot about vegan cooking/baking, how to wash clothes with just ivy leaves, as a well as how to do… read more
15 Aug 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Eliot)
Eliot stayed with us for two weeks and in those two short weeks we got so much done. His calm and steady presence, strength and hard work meant that he was a great person to work with. Together with his friend Anais, they helped to transform our project by moving so many piles of brash and firewood, digging new beds, sawing dead and dying trees,… read more
(Excellent
)
20 Oct 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Jakob & Alrescha)
Jakob and Alrescha were fantastic volunteers - friendly and hardworking. They enthusiastically and intelligently tackled projects and kept going until they had finished. They were also great company and we very much hope to see them again.
(Excellent
)
14 Oct 2017
Left by Workawayer (Jakob & Alrescha) for host
Thank you for the beautiful time here. We really enjoyed working with you guys. Especially because you taught us a lot and enabled us to do the work we were enthusiastic about. You are really an inspiration for us and we are sure that we will come back to visit you. Our room was cozy and perfect. We enjoyed a lot sitting by the fire playing tichu… read more
8 Sep 2017
Left by Workawayer (Dide) for host
My friend Lucia and I stayed with Emma and Barney for two weeks, it was truly wonderful! They had an amazing knowledge of the area, we both learned so much from such a short stay. Emma and Barney's project is inspirational, and what they are doing and how much they have done is amazing.
The time we spent there was very peaceful, the area is… read more
The time we spent there was very peaceful, the area is… read more
15 Aug 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Dide)
Dide came with her friend Lucia and what a great team they made - they helped to transform our project making it look so much tidier, moved a ton of stuff and Dide made a fantastic job of repainting our sign. She is kind friendly, helpful and efficient. A better volunteer, you couldn't ask for.
(Excellent
)
21 Aug 2017
Left by Workawayer (Lucia) for host
Emma and Barney made me feel very warm and welcome. This was my first workaway and what a great one it was. I really feel that I learnt a lot about the project during my stay and both Emma and Barney had so much to tell. I'm so impressed with what Emma and Barney have done and what they have got planned. The place is beautiful. I came back feeling… read more
19 Aug 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Lucia)
Lucia came with her friend Dide and they made a great team. Lucia has a peaceful personality, works hard and consistently and helped to transform our project. She moved loads of firewood and brash, tons of stones, planted strawberries and cleared beds, brambles and paths through the forest. All this was done in her calm, unflustered way.
We really… read more
We really… read more
(Excellent
)
21 Aug 2017
Left by Workawayer (Anais) for host
Well... Emma and Barney couldn't of made Our stay more enjoyable!! It was a great experience living and working here, I have learnt a lot in such a short amount of time and they couldn't of been more welcoming hosts!
The work we did was different each day and a lot of fun! Eliot and I found it easy to slot in to the day to day routines with… read more
The work we did was different each day and a lot of fun! Eliot and I found it easy to slot in to the day to day routines with… read more
15 Aug 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Anais)
Anais stayed with us for two weeks and in those two short weeks we got so much done. Her infectious energy, enthusiasm, and fun-loving outlook on life made her such good company. Together with her friend Eliot, they helped to transform our project by moving so many piles of brash and firewood, digging new beds, sawing dead and dying trees,… read more
(Excellent
)
28 Jul 2017
Left by Workawayer (Torhorst) for host
I spent two and a half weeks here and it was a very precious time for me. I really enjoyed how Emma and Barney brought their life nearer to me. They explained everything they do and why they do it, so I could really learn a lot of new things. I really hope as well I can manage to come back one day!
24 Jul 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Torhorst)
Lotta is an exceptional volunteer - hardworking and careful, wants to finish the job and takes pride in her work. She's also great fun to be around, calm, relaxed and cheerful which has a knock-on effect on everyone around her. We thoroughly recommend her as a volunteer and really hope that she will want to return.
(Excellent
)
5 Jun 2017
Left by Workawayer (Tilo) for host
It was a great experience to stay with Barnie, Emma and Lucas. I was learning a lot and I really going to miss all of them. It was always great to be in their company and I felt that I really could be the one I am around them.
I really would recommend to anyone to go to this beautiful place! I had some unexpected experiences: went to a festival… read more
I really would recommend to anyone to go to this beautiful place! I had some unexpected experiences: went to a festival… read more
4 Jun 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Tilo)
Tilo was a great volunteer, working steadily, carefully and with boundless energy until he had finished the task. Some of the many things he did: dug an enormous hole, where we discovered lots of clay, which he then helped to haul out of the ground; cleared two vegetable beds; opened a path in the woods; uncovered some steps and found a new one!;… read more
(Excellent
)
1 Jan 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Colm & Fiona)
Colm was pleasant to work with and did everything asked of him efficiently while working reasonably hard. He has some interesting ideas and likes to talk while working. He is an endless source of useful information on diverse topics such as fermentation, nonviolent communication, meditation and whittling spoons. A good volunteer trustworthy and… read more
(Excellent
)
12 Dec 2016
Left by Workawayer (Colm & Fiona) for host
i had an amazingly inspiring, peaceful, and soul nourishing 3 weeks with emma and barney on there lovely hidden farm amongst the oak forests. i was so impressed and inspired by their intentions and very selfless actions, of cutting down LOTS and lots of harmful eucalyptus trees, and allowing native oaks to thrive. they are sweet, peaceful folk… read more
16 Oct 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Chloe & David)
It was such a pleasure to have Chloe staying here with us. She was easy going, thoughtful, kind hearted and a wonderful help with the roof that we are rebuilding, sorting slates and bringing them up. She worked carefully, understood the problems and can be trusted completely to work well. Independent, confident and lovely with other volunteers and… read more
(Excellent
)
19 Sep 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Daniel )
Daniel was a great volunteer to host, friendly and helpful with lots of interesting things to relate. He worked intelligently and carefully at any task he was given, helping us in the forest, with the restoration work and moving firewood. Sensible, capable and trustworthy, we hope to see him again before too long.
(Excellent
)
3 Sep 2016
Left by Workawayer (Roshni) for host
I had an absolutely brilliant time staying with Barney and Emma for two weeks, back in Spring
time. They live in a magical place, surrounded by beautiful nature! From the moment I got there I felt so welcome. I stayed in the volunteer house, which I had to myself because I was the only volunteer there during those two weeks. It was a lovely… read more
time. They live in a magical place, surrounded by beautiful nature! From the moment I got there I felt so welcome. I stayed in the volunteer house, which I had to myself because I was the only volunteer there during those two weeks. It was a lovely… read more
24 Jul 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Christian)
Christian helped us enormously moving barrow loads of slates down the hill and barrow loads of logs from the forest. He also showed us some yoga postures. He is a kind and gentle person with loads of energy and strength. An interesting person and helpful volunteer!!
(Excellent
)
21 Jul 2016
Left by Workawayer (Christian) for host
I stayed at Emma and Barneys for a week and it was a very nourishing experience, amazing nature, stimulating social conversations and inspiring project. Physical work but you can eat basically as much vegan food as you like!
Practiced some Spanish, visited a fiesta and swam in the waterfalls.
Very remote, but i would say you have to love… read more
Practiced some Spanish, visited a fiesta and swam in the waterfalls.
Very remote, but i would say you have to love… read more
20 Jun 2016
Left by Workawayer (Katie) for host
Barney and Emma were my last workaway on my trip around Spain and a very important one! Kind and caring from the first hello, it was a pleasure to help them with their building and inspiring and motivating to experience their way of life. A great project where I felt welcomed, useful and valued, a really good base to get to know this area of… read more
19 Jun 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Katie)
Katie arrived at just the moment when we needed someone who had her skills of working well in a team and having the confidence and common sense to be able to make valuable contributions to the problems we needed to solve as we worked out how to move heavy beams without machinery on to the walls. She is kind, strong, perceptive and works really… read more
(Excellent
)
8 May 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Yujiro)
You would not regret having Yujiro as a volunteer, he is so considerate, polite and hard working. His help was fantastic, moving heavy beams from the forest. He is focussed well on the work and contributes his own good ideas to problems as they arise.
He is also great fun to be around and has many interesting tales to tell of his travels. We… read more
He is also great fun to be around and has many interesting tales to tell of his travels. We… read more
(Excellent
)
7 May 2016
Left by Workawayer (Yujiro) for host
I stayed here for just 2 weeks. It was so precious and fantastic time and my thought for sustainable life would improve!
When I was here, there weren't other volunteers. So I worried that I can work here like they expected. I'm not so big and strong guy. But it was worry needlessly. (I hope so.) Barney, Emma and I could do nice job:))
And I… read more
When I was here, there weren't other volunteers. So I worried that I can work here like they expected. I'm not so big and strong guy. But it was worry needlessly. (I hope so.) Barney, Emma and I could do nice job:))
And I… read more
22 Mar 2016
Left by Workawayer (Natalia & Elle) for host
Volunteering for Barney and Emma was one of the most satisfying experiences I have been able to be a part of. The projects they have created are something that everyone should be a part of for the learning experience. If more of the world had the knowledge of how to go about daily life perhaps change would occur, and these are some of the things… read more
20 Jul 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Natalia & Elle)
Natalia and Elle make such a good team. Good natured and cheerful, sensitive, full of fun and really strong, hard workers. They were determined to finish any task they had started even though we had a heat wave while they were here. We hope they will come back again.
(Excellent
)
19 Mar 2016
Left by Workawayer (Natalie) for host
Where to start. I fully enjoyed my 2 weeks volunteering in heaven. Emma and Barney have created a beautiful setting, and are doing great work for the surrounding ecosystems. The forests around are lush and green, and the vegetation is so diverse when you start to look around. I ate all my meals with hosts and the food was also fantastic. Most of… read more
20 Sep 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Natalie)
Natalie was full of energy and enthusiasm and helped us loads with making a green roof, sawing wood, gathering chestnuts and mushrooms, stacking logs and making a path through the woodland. She was great company and sings beautifully.
(Excellent
)
18 Jan 2016
Left by Workawayer (Paola & Diana) for host
Thank you Emma and Barney for letting us stay with you. We had such an amazing time, and are so glad that we had the opportunity to meet two wonderful people like you. We learned so much during our stay, and hopefully we can come back one day. Take good care of Pepito for us (;
Nuestros mejores deseos,
Diana y Paola.
Nuestros mejores deseos,
Diana y Paola.
18 Jan 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Paola & Diana)
Paola and Diana are a lovely friendly couple who work hard and thoroughly. They are completely reliable and trustworthy and helped us a lot. They remained good humoured even though we had torrential rain for days on end and adapted well to the circumstances. They know how to look after a house and left it wonderfully clean and tidy.
(Excellent
)
13 Jan 2016
Left by Workawayer (Jessica & Henry) for host
We spent 3 weeks volunteering on the project and loved every minute of it. Barney and Emma were super accommodating and made us feel at home right away. We learnt a lot about sustainable building, foraging and sustainable living from them. The project is set in the Galician mountains and we had great fun exploring the local area in our free time.… read more
9 Dec 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Jessica & Henry)
Jess and Hal worked with us during the autumn 2015. They were fantastic volunteers- full of common sense, hard-working, self-reliant, considerate, reliable and they knew how to look after themselves and the house. Amongst the many things that they helped us with were: learning quickly how to mortar between the stones of the house we are… read more
(Excellent
)
23 Dec 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Mark)
Mark worked here for two weeks and during that time he made substantial inroads into the current projects. He approached the tasks with diligence, intelligence and patience, working out a new system for stacking firewood, building gates and helped with rebuilding a dry stone wall.
He works well on his own and as part of a team. With a good… read more
He works well on his own and as part of a team. With a good… read more
(Excellent
)
22 Dec 2015
Left by Workawayer (Mark) for host
I spent 2 weeks here and it was such a rewarding experience. The project is in an area of lush, wild woodland where you live as part of nature and the ecosystems, not just using it. All the work to be done feeds into the wellbeing of the natural system and it is hugely satisfying to be a part of that. Being here is an amazing opportunity to learn… read more
26 Nov 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Riyaz)
Riyaz was a keen volunteer, ever willing and enthusiastic to get stuck into tasks, especially those requiring great physical strength - of which he has plenty.
He is very sociable and seems quick to make friends of fellow volunteers and neighbours alike which makes him particularly suited to projects where there are many people.
He has… read more
He is very sociable and seems quick to make friends of fellow volunteers and neighbours alike which makes him particularly suited to projects where there are many people.
He has… read more
(Excellent
)
19 Nov 2015
Left by Workawayer (Riyaz) for host
Barney and Emma have created a paradise on earth. The project is highly inspiring as it really puts the needs of nature and the environment first and do everything that they can to live in harmony with it. They demonstrate how it is possible to live without exploiting animals at all, the first project I have come across that does this. The jobs… read more
6 Nov 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Dominic)
Dominic was full of energy and enthusiasm and helped the project a great deal stacking firewood, cleaning up old beams, collecting bracken and broken tiles for the green roof, taking out an old ceiling, clearing leaves and chestnut shells out of a water channel, making a start on a eucalyptus beam with a hand axe and still had time to play Tichu… read more
(Excellent
)
25 Aug 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Amy)
What a shame that Amie could only stay with us for a few days. Quiet and unassuming, gentle and thoughtful, she worked hard moving eucalyptus from the forest, cleaning old oak beams in preparation for the restoration and moving lots of stones from the ruins. We wish you well in you travels, Amie!
(Excellent
)
25 Aug 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Zoë)
Zoë, is full of life and enthusiam and we had many an interesting discussion while working. She works thoroughly and consistently with whatever needs doing and was encouraging about our project. She is keen to learn more about sustainable living, although she already knows quite a lot and would be a great help to any project which is aiming to… read more
(Excellent
)
25 Aug 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Tomo)
What a pleasure it was to have Tomo stay with us. Completely unflustered by anything, he worked diligently with us on the various tasks which needed doing - debarking and stacking wood, building a wild boar proof fence, clearing out ruins, picking pears, repairing a pond. We really hope that he will come back again.
(Excellent
)
12 Aug 2015
Left by Workawayer (Tomo) for host
Emma and Barney are two extremely welcoming, generous, principled and hardworking I have wished to meet. They have a wonderful vision of managing forrest they own and returning it to its traditional oak woodland. They also have very clear views on how to live sustainably with the utmost respect for natures ability to keep a balance if it is left… read more
3 Aug 2015
Left by Workawayer (Gordon) for host
What an inspiring project Emma and Barney and their volunteers are building out in the Galician mountainside. Emma and Barney have really thought through how to create an ecologically sound community, and are carrying out their vision with such grace. Everything they're doing is with the ethic of working with the grain of natural processes to… read more
22 Jul 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Gordon)
Gordon is everything you could want in a volunteer - considerate, thoughtful, a very good listener, strong, a good cook, tidy, interesting, concerned about humanity and the balance of nature. One of the many things he helped us with, was in the building of a new woodshed which he did with care and skill. We were sad to see him go and hope he will… read more
(Excellent
)
23 Jun 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Eliot)
We are so pleased that Eli came to work with us. He's thoughtful, polite, hard working, good listener, tidy - an ideal volunteer. Our only regret is that he couldn't stay longer.
Hopefully, Eli, we will see you again one day.
Hopefully, Eli, we will see you again one day.
(Excellent
)
4 May 2015
Left by Workawayer (Eve) for host
Emma and Barney are gracious, kind hearted hosts with an interesting project underway. They were always very considerate of us as volunteers and the effort we made. I really enjoyed the time I spent with them. I wish you both the best of luck with everything. Thanks a bunch! Evee
26 Apr 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Eve)
Eve is an ideal volunteer - calm, willing to try anything, works consistently and is great company. We were sad to say goodbye and hope that she will return soon.
(Excellent
)
24 Apr 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Javi & Esther)
Esther and Javi are lovely people and helped us a lot, working well and efficiently. They are both kind, thoughtful, friendly, interested in our project and we are so happy that they chose to come here. We hope that they will come again some day.
(Excellent
)
1 Mar 2013
Left by Workawayer (Ewelka) for host
I spent with Emma and Barney turn of the years 2012/2013. Coming from cold and covered with snow Poland I was lucky to experience winter time in Galicia where you can pick mandarins and lemons right from the trees. Emma and Barney are true nature lovers. They successfully implement their project into practice. Thus you can already see reclaimed… read more
4 Oct 2012
Left by Workawayer (Natalie) for host
I had a wonderful week with Barney and Emma. This is a truly unique place in the mountains, with green luscious surroundings, rivers, waterfall and at times it feels as though you are on top of the world! After just one day I felt really calm, slept and ate so well (thanks to Emma's delicious cooking and Barney's bread!) Type of work depends on… read more
6 Jun 2012
Left by Workawayer (Sharon) for host
The Secret Garden meets Lord of the Rings;) This is a great and worthy project which will keep you on your toes in the best possible way. I learned so much about sustainable living whilst happily eating my way through Barney´s amazing vegan cakes and had loads of unexpected adventures. Stunning countryside, great walks, swimming under crystal… read more
22 Oct 2011
Left by Workawayer (barefoot) for host
I stayed with my friend Josi for a week at Emma's and Barney's place in the Galician mountains. The work was varied and the vegan food always delicious and lovely confected. We were blue to left the place because we felt so comfortable with all the kindness and peace and we loved the surrounding area so much. Good luck with the project!! I really… read more
15 Oct 2011
Left by Workawayer (Josephin) for host
My friend Vivi and I stayed with Emma and Barny for nearly a week. We were really sad that we couldn't stay longer. I was amazed by all the great cooking and the lifestyle at their place. I also loved the quietness of the galician mountains and the comfort and warmth that was all around the place :-) Maybe I'll be able to come back some day and… read more
22 Apr 2011
Left by Workawayer (Elizabeth) for host
I spent the most wonderful 6 days with Emma and Barney--it was such an incredible experience! They were fantastic hosts and I left feeling completely inspired by their project! I can't wait to see the progress they continue to make and hope to return :)
13 Jan 2011
Left by Workawayer (Chloe & Benjamin) for host
We had the most unbelievable experience here! We simply couldn't have asked for better hosts. Both of are very much looking forward to going back in the years to come.
