Experience a rural Benedictine Monastery located in the Serra da Mantiqueira, Brazil

Details

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  Description

  We are a family-run farm hotel located in the scenic Serra da Mantiqueira mountains, in what was once a rural Benedictine Monastery. Our property is surrounded by lush forests, waterfalls, a serene lake, and breathtaking views of the valley. It is a place of tranquility, fresh air, and rich history.
  
  Our mission is to create a welcoming environment for guests seeking rest, spiritual retreats, and events, while preserving the historical and cultural heritage of the monastery. We are passionate about sustainable living and ecological projects, and we produce milk and dairy products, honey, and organic foods. We also raise domestic and farm animals, maintaining a harmonious relationship with nature.
  
  The accommodations are within the old monks' cells, offering a unique experience that combines rustic simplicity with historical charm. Sometimes Volunteers stay in Casa Harmonia, a cozy house designed for communal living, where you can share experiences with other volunteers from around the world.
  
  As a family, we value cultural exchange, learning, and community living. We welcome volunteers who are enthusiastic about nature, sustainability, and experiencing the beauty of rural Brazil.
  
  Come join us, immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of the mountains, and contribute to our ecological and community projects!

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  Types of help and learning opportunities

  Art Projects

  Language practice

  Help with Eco Projects

  Gardening

  DIY and building projects

  Animal Care

  Farmstay help

  Creating/ Cooking family meals

  Help around the house

  Hospitality/Tourism

  General Maintenance

  Help with Computers/ Internet
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  Interests

  

  Sustainability

  

  Farming

  

  Events & social

  

  Videography

  

  Self development

  

  Yoga / Wellness

  

  Nature

  

  Mountain

  

  Adventure sports

  

  Camping

  

  Hiking

  

  Outdoor activities

  

  Gardening

  

  Blogging

  

  DIY & crafts

  

  Books

  

  Photography

  

  Drawing & painting

  

  Cooking & food

  

  Carpentry

  

  Plant care

  

  Art & design

  

  Architecture
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  Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

  1. Immersion in Benedictine History and Spirituality:
  
  Experience the serenity of a rural Benedictine monastery, learning about the history of the monks who once lived here and the spiritual practices that shaped the property.
  Explore the spiritual side of the region, participating in peaceful moments of reflection, meditation, and silence that are central to the Benedictine tradition.
  
  2. Local Brazilian Culture:
  
  Engage with local customs, traditions, and folklore of the surrounding area in Minas Gerais.
  Learn about the everyday life of rural Brazilians, especially in a farm-focused community, and how they balance modern life with respect for nature and sustainability.
  Taste traditional Brazilian dishes made from local ingredients, and explore the preparation of organic and farm-fresh foods.
  
  3. Sustainable Living & Ecological Practices:
  
  Participate in sustainability projects that are at the heart of our farm operations, including organic farming, reforestation, and eco-friendly water conservation methods.
  Learn about permaculture practices, sustainable animal husbandry, and how to integrate ecological principles into daily life.
  Gain hands-on knowledge of beekeeping, milk and cheese production, and the responsible management of natural resources.
  
  4. Learning Portuguese and Cross-Cultural Communication:
  
  Improve your Portuguese skills by interacting with locals and other volunteers. Whether you are a beginner or more advanced, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to practice the language in an immersive environment.
  Share your culture and traditions with others, enriching both your experience and the community's understanding of the world.
  
  5. Connection with Nature & Outdoor Activities:
  
  Learn about the native flora and fauna of the Serra da Mantiqueira region, participating in guided hikes to nearby waterfalls, forests, and trails.
  Gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world through work in the gardens, trails, and farm.
  Discover the benefits of living in a quiet, rural environment, where you can disconnect from the hustle of urban life and reconnect with the rhythms of nature.
  
  6. Cultural Sharing & Community Living:
  
  Share your own culture with other volunteers and the local community, whether through cooking, art, music, or storytelling.
  Participate in the communal activities of the farm, from working together on the land to sharing meals, and build lasting friendships with people from around the world.
  Learn about teamwork, problem-solving, and living in a multicultural environment, where different backgrounds and perspectives come together in harmony.
  This exchange is an opportunity to grow both personally and professionally, while contributing to meaningful ecological projects and learning in a supportive and welcoming environment. You’ll leave not only with new skills and knowledge but with lasting memories and connections from a unique part of Brazil.

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  Help

  We are looking for enthusiastic and proactive volunteers to help with a variety of tasks, contributing to our ecological projects, maintenance, and daily activities at our historic farm hotel. Here’s how you can get involved:
  
  1. Ecological and Sustainability Projects:
  
  Reforestation and native species planting to preserve the local ecosystem.
  Organic farming and gardening: planting, maintaining, and harvesting vegetables and herbs.
  Composting and waste management to reduce environmental impact.
  Assisting with water conservation projects, including maintaining natural water sources.
  
  2. Farm and Animal Care:
  
  Feeding and caring for domestic and farm animals.
  Milking cows and assisting in the production of dairy products.
  Beekeeping assistance for honey production (training provided).
  General farm maintenance and cleaning.
  
  3. Maintenance and Landscaping:
  
  General upkeep of gardens, trails, and outdoor spaces.
  Maintaining common areas, including the multifunctional hall and memorial chapel.
  Helping with minor repairs and cleaning tasks.
  Painting and beautifying shared spaces and accommodation areas.
  
  4. Community and Cultural Exchange:
  
  Sharing your culture, skills, and experiences with us and other volunteers.
  Assisting in organizing community events or cultural activities.
  Helping to improve our language skills (Portuguese and English).

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  Languages

  Languages spoken
  English: Fluent
  Spanish: Fluent
  Portuguese: Fluent
  Italian: Beginner

  This 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.
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  Accommodation

  Accommodations and Meals:
  We provide accommodations in a house designated for volunteers, where you can enjoy a warm and communal environment. We provide basic food, which includes participation from both hosts and volunteers in the preparation. Additionally, ingredients are provided so that you can also cook for yourself, The shared kitchen is fully equipped for cooking, and you have access to fresh organic produce from our farm. The food is preferably vegetarian.
  Sometimes The accommodations can be inside the monastery in the old cells, today double rooms with a sink without an exclusive bathroom.

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  What else ...

  During your days off, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the stunning natural beauty of the region and discover the local culture. Here’s what you can do during your free time:
  
  1. Explore the Surroundings:
  
  Hiking & Trails: There are beautiful trails on the property that lead to hidden waterfalls, serene lakes, and viewpoints with incredible views of the valley. For more adventurous hikers, we offer guided hikes to the Pico dos Marins, a challenging and rewarding peak that provides breathtaking panoramic views.
  Nature Walks: Take a leisurely walk through the forests, where you can spot native wildlife, including various birds and flora unique to the Serra da Mantiqueira region.
  Swimming & Relaxation: Refresh yourself in the natural lake, or take a dip in the nearby waterfalls. The calm and tranquil environment is perfect for unwinding.
  
  2. Local Sights & Attractions:
  
  Delfim Moreira (18 km away): The nearest town, Delfim Moreira, is a charming small town where you can experience local culture, shop for regional products, and enjoy traditional Brazilian cuisine.
  Itajubá (22 km away): A larger town with more options for shopping, dining, and exploring, Itajubá offers local markets and is a gateway to the surrounding natural attractions.
  Cultural Sites: Discover the historical aspects of the region, including traditional farms and other historical monuments in the surrounding towns.
  
  3. Local Transport & Getting Around:
  
  The nearest bus station is in Itajubá, which is easily accessible from our location. You can catch buses to nearby towns or larger cities like Pouso Alegre or São Lourenço.
  If you’re looking to explore further, there are local taxis(uber) available, and we can help arrange transport to the nearest towns if needed.
  
  4. Learn & Relax:
  
  Cultural Exchange: During your time off, you can join other volunteers for communal meals, share stories, and learn new skills from people around the world.
  Relaxation: Take advantage of the peaceful setting to unwind, meditate, or practice yoga in nature. The property offers the perfect balance of quiet spaces to recharge.
  
  5. Special Events & Local Festivals:
  
  Depending on when you visit, you may have the opportunity to experience local festivals, including religious events, music festivals, and cultural gatherings that celebrate the traditions of Minas Gerais.
  
  6. Personal Projects & Hobbies:
  
  Use your free time to explore your personal interests, whether it’s reading, photography, writing, or even practicing art. You can also contribute to the farm's creative initiatives, helping with design, social media, or photography to showcase the beauty of the property.
  
  Rules and Community Living Guidelines:
  
  To ensure a smooth and harmonious experience for everyone, we ask all volunteers to follow a few basic rules and be mindful of the communal living environment:
  
  1. Respect and Cooperation:
  
  Mutual Respect: We are a community that values respect. We expect everyone to treat fellow volunteers, the host family, and the local community with kindness, consideration, and respect.
  Teamwork: Many of the activities require cooperation, so we ask everyone to engage in teamwork and help where needed, maintaining a positive and collaborative environment.
  
  2. Schedules and Commitment:
  
  Punctuality: We ask all volunteers to commit to the agreed work hours, respecting scheduled tasks and activities.
  Task Commitment: Each volunteer will have specific tasks assigned, and we expect everyone to complete them responsibly. If you face any challenges, we're here to help!
  Free Time: During your free time, feel free to explore the area or rest, but always be mindful of the routine of the space.
  
  3. Shared Living Spaces:
  
  Silence and Tranquility: Our property is a peaceful place to connect with nature, so we ask everyone to respect quiet moments, especially in shared spaces and during the evening.
  Use of Common Areas: The kitchen, bathrooms, and other communal areas are shared, so we ask that everyone clean up after themselves and keep the spaces tidy. Be mindful of others when using the shared spaces.
  Respecting Privacy: Respect others’ privacy and that of the host family. Do not enter private rooms or areas without permission.
  
  4. Sustainability Rules:
  
  Sustainability: We prioritize environmental preservation on the farm. Please follow eco-friendly practices such as conserving water and energy, and use materials mindfully.
  Waste Disposal: Please separate recyclables and organic waste properly and follow our instructions for waste disposal.
  
  5. Safety and Health:
  
  First Aid: In case of accidents or emergencies, we have a first aid kit available, and we can help you seek medical assistance if needed.
  Nature Care: When exploring the property or trails, please respect safety guidelines and care for the natural surroundings. Avoid disturbing the local flora and fauna, and follow the guidance of trail guides for outdoor activities.
  
  6. Smoking and Alcohol:
  
  Smoking: We ask that smokers use designated areas for smoking and avoid smoking in common living spaces.
  Alcohol: Alcohol consumption is not allowed. Please respect others and maintain the peaceful environment of the space.
  
  7. Confirmation of Participation:
  
  Commitment to Stay: We kindly ask that volunteers confirm their stay in advance, and if there are any changes, please notify us as early as possible.
  Leaving Early: If you need to leave earlier than planned, please inform the host family in advance so we can make necessary arrangements.

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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

  we have internet acess via wi-fi.

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  How many Workawayers can stay?

  More than two

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