Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Reply rate
100.0 %
Usually responds within 1 day
Feedback
99
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Badges (3)
Details
Description
UPDATE: we have now left our life in Italy behind, but we are setting up a self sufficient life in the U.K. which is to replicate what we had in Italy. We are therefore now seeking help from volunteers who have an interest in self sufficiency; growing one’s own food from scratch and living off the land. If this is something you are interested in, we would love to hear from you. You should be practical and willing to help with getting the veggie plots built and up and running. You should be keen gardeners and it have an interest in learning about gardening.
We have a large plot of land and welcome volunteers to help with the gardening and self sufficient life we’ve created for ourselves.
We are a friendly, married, young at heart couple but we are by no means in the slippers brigade and are a lively couple who don't take life too seriously. We love our food and grow much of our own produce.
We have a small rescue dog so should be avid animal lovers as they are a definite part of our life.
We are situated in a beautiful location, with the house sitting on its own 9 acre hill with the most amazing 360 degree views across rolling countryside. The nearest city is Matera, which is famous for being the film location for Mel Gibsons Passion of the Christ; Mary’ Magdeleine; Superwoman and the new James Bond movie which is about to launch. Matera became a Unesco World Heritage site in 1993 and is a 15 minute drive away. The old town known as the Sassi is where people have dwelled in caves for 9000 years. It's an amazing place particularly if you enjoy cultural experiences, history and architecture. There are jaw dropping landscapes if you enjoy painting or photography. Matera was European Capital of Culture 2019.
We enjoy hosting. We see it as a win/win on both sides. You help us with our daily projects so that everything remains in tip top condition: extra pairs of hands are much appreciated. We welcome you into our life - where you will work hard but also have fun and laughter plus plenty of free time. You will be well fed on your work days when we enjoy lunch together after the working hours. Our cooking style is modern, using traditional home grown veggies which we grow and preserve. We prepare healthy meals. Vegetarians are welcome but we are sorry we cannot cater for vegans as we do cook with dairy produce. We prefer hosting COUPLES over the age of 25 but will consider single volunteers if your skills match the tasks we are undertaking. We are both non smokers and do not welcome smokers - sorry!
Types of help and learning opportunities
Language practice
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Animal Care
Farmstay help
Help around the house
General Maintenance
UN sustainablity goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
We are happy to share how we decided to move from the rat race of stressful professional careers in the UK to an almost self sufficient life in the depths of Italy - La Dolce Vita. We try to be as Eco friendly as possible ..... Collecting and harvesting our own rain water; using solar energy for hot water and growing most of our own fruit and vegetables. We'll teach you as much as you wish to learn and ask that volunteers embrace our eco friendly resources.
You'll have the opportunity to visit and explore the second oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the world, where people have lived in caves for over 9000 years (and still do!). A rare opportunity not to be missed.
Having both been professional employers and recruiters we are happy to discuss and give careers advice and guidance if you wish.
Help
We need help with the upkeep of the grounds, gardens, veggie plots and new landscaping around the property. Volunteers should enjoy general gardening; weeding; pruning; garden maintenance. The vegetable plot and fruit orchard requires continuous attention. In Autumn we pick the olives.
We have some eco-projects underway and there is always painting and oiling of outside furniture; pergolas and barns which has to be done every year. The tasks you’ll help with depends on the time of year and the weather. The list is endless and ever evolving!
We can host volunteers for short or longer stays if we are in a busy period. Please do check with us what dates are available as we fill up very quickly and can only host one couple at a time.
HOW TO GET OUR ATTENTION: We get a LOT of requests so thought we would share our side... We like just a few lines about why you would like to share our life having read our profile, what skills you have, what you'd like to learn. Please insert the words LA DOLCE VITA into the title of your message. Writing these things in your covering note shows you've read our profile to here! And please have a photo of just you/both of you, not a group of people at a party.....).
Languages spoken
German: Fluent
English: Fluent
Italian: Beginner
Accommodation
You will be living in a private, self contained, insulated studio with its own outside seating area. This area is totally private so that in your free time you can enjoy the peace and quiet of the countryside. There is an outside kitchenette area and basic cooking facilities so that you can prepare food during your free time. There is also a small BBQ provided.
What else ...
If you wish to go exploring every afternoon, it’s best you have your own transport. On non work days we are happy to drop you off in Matera so you may discover this beautiful city. Lots of churches, museums and guided tours if you are interested.
Please note - the local town is not accessible on public transport and is too far to walk. You are of course free to go exploring on your days off but we only go into town once a week.
On your free days you are responsible for your own food. Bring your own provisions if you need anything in the evenings. There is a fridge in the studio. Bring good working shoes and a happy, enthusiastic approach to get stuck in.
For arrival arrangements - the closest airport is BARI. The closest bus or train terminal is MATERA. We will gladly pick you up from either the bus or train station in Matera.
We offer private accommodation; breakfast; snacks and a main lunchtime meal on workdays. This will be served at lunchtime, after helping hours, in keeping with the local way of life. In exchange we require 25-30 hours help per week per person. We are flexible with the hours but usually do 8am to 1pm so as to avoid the afternoon heat. The afternoons and evenings are your free time to explore the local area or simply to relax. On your last day we ask you to thoroughly clean the studio ready for the next guests.
Ideal applicants should be 25-65 age bracket (active, agile and fit) with a friendly, mature outlook on life who are willing to help out with our various projects.
This is not suitable for someone looking for a hectic night life! We are in an isolated location (yet only a 15 min drive into the city). It will appeal to anyone who likes gardening, landscaping, painting; art; architecture; meditation.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
Hours expected
5 hours per day, 5 days a week
Host ref number: 696956669825
Feedback (50)
1 May 2023
Left by Workawayer (Jack & Chelsea) for host
We had a fantastic time assisting Richard and Esther at their home in Southern Italy. We spent approximately three weeks in October/November with Richard and Esther, who could not have been more welcoming and generous with their time and knowledge regarding their self-sufficient property. Pleasingly we were able to engage in a number of activities… read more
12 Jan 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Jack & Chelsea)
Jack and Chelsea came to stay with us for about 3 weeks in the autumn to help with a number of gardening projects on our extensive land. This included the annual olive harvest; tree pruning and log cutting. During this period we were also marketing the property for sale, so it was important that the place always looked neat and tidy. They greatly… read more
(Excellent
)
2 Jul 2022
Left by Workawayer (Oty & NAPOLEON) for host
It was a blessing being accepted to partner up with Richard and Esther in their home projects. They constantly looked out for our well-being and meeting our needs. We were humbled about how generous they were with their time and resources. They have a clear vision, and their expertise and depth of knowledge in so many things is impressive. This… read more
18 Jun 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Oty & NAPOLEON)
Review
Where do we start with giving a review for this wonderful couple. We’d like to give 10 stars if we could. They were absolutely amazing. We achieved so much in the ti è they were with us and finished many projects which had been outstanding for so long. Oty and Napo are a joyful, happy, intelligent couple who are really hardworking; self… read more
Where do we start with giving a review for this wonderful couple. We’d like to give 10 stars if we could. They were absolutely amazing. We achieved so much in the ti è they were with us and finished many projects which had been outstanding for so long. Oty and Napo are a joyful, happy, intelligent couple who are really hardworking; self… read more
(Excellent
)
13 Jun 2022
Left by Workawayer (Daniel & Linnea) for host
Richard and Esther were great hosts, and they made us feel at home very quickly. We have many great memories from here, and we learnt a lot in our short time. We're still very grateful for the beautiful lunches we shared and we are very happy to have stayed here. The work was varied, and they both made sure we were enjoying our days. And we sure… read more
5 May 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Daniel & Linnea)
Danial and Linnea are a lovely, polite and mature couple who were able to help us with a number of projects for which we are very grateful. They worked well together and independently and were happy to carry out a variety of jobs. Thanks guys for all your help and good luck with your onward travels.
(Excellent
)
Photos
Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(4.8)
Cultural exchange:
(4.8)
Communication:
(4.9)
1 May 2023
Left by Workawayer (Jack & Chelsea) for host
We had a fantastic time assisting Richard and Esther at their home in Southern Italy. We spent approximately three weeks in October/November with Richard and Esther, who could not have been more welcoming and generous with their time and knowledge regarding their self-sufficient property. Pleasingly we were able to engage in a number of activities… read more
12 Jan 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Jack & Chelsea)
Jack and Chelsea came to stay with us for about 3 weeks in the autumn to help with a number of gardening projects on our extensive land. This included the annual olive harvest; tree pruning and log cutting. During this period we were also marketing the property for sale, so it was important that the place always looked neat and tidy. They greatly… read more
(Excellent
)
2 Jul 2022
Left by Workawayer (Oty & NAPOLEON) for host
It was a blessing being accepted to partner up with Richard and Esther in their home projects. They constantly looked out for our well-being and meeting our needs. We were humbled about how generous they were with their time and resources. They have a clear vision, and their expertise and depth of knowledge in so many things is impressive. This… read more
18 Jun 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Oty & NAPOLEON)
Review
Where do we start with giving a review for this wonderful couple. We’d like to give 10 stars if we could. They were absolutely amazing. We achieved so much in the ti è they were with us and finished many projects which had been outstanding for so long. Oty and Napo are a joyful, happy, intelligent couple who are really hardworking; self… read more
Where do we start with giving a review for this wonderful couple. We’d like to give 10 stars if we could. They were absolutely amazing. We achieved so much in the ti è they were with us and finished many projects which had been outstanding for so long. Oty and Napo are a joyful, happy, intelligent couple who are really hardworking; self… read more
(Excellent
)
13 Jun 2022
Left by Workawayer (Daniel & Linnea) for host
Richard and Esther were great hosts, and they made us feel at home very quickly. We have many great memories from here, and we learnt a lot in our short time. We're still very grateful for the beautiful lunches we shared and we are very happy to have stayed here. The work was varied, and they both made sure we were enjoying our days. And we sure… read more
5 May 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Daniel & Linnea)
Danial and Linnea are a lovely, polite and mature couple who were able to help us with a number of projects for which we are very grateful. They worked well together and independently and were happy to carry out a variety of jobs. Thanks guys for all your help and good luck with your onward travels.
(Excellent
)
7 Apr 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Ophélie & Federico)
Ophelia and Fredrico were originally booked to stay with us for 2 weeks, but we enjoyed their company so much that we invited them to stay a 3rd week. They are a polite, intelligent couple who worked diligently on any task given to them and helped us to catch up on many outstanding jobs around on the land, in the vegetable plots and around house.… read more
(Excellent
)
7 Apr 2022
Left by Workawayer (Ophélie & Federico) for host
We had the wonderful opportunity of staying at Richard and Esther’s stunning Masseria for over 3 weeks. This Workaway experience was everything we looked for in this exchange program and even went beyond all our expectations.
Esther and Richard are the most lovely, joyful and respectful hosts and made us feel at home since day one. We appreciated… read more
Esther and Richard are the most lovely, joyful and respectful hosts and made us feel at home since day one. We appreciated… read more
3 Apr 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Naëma)
It was a real pleasure to have Naema stay with us, albeit for such a short time. She is a strong young lady with a lot of common sense and took great initiative in the building of a retaining stone wall, along with a number of other smaller jobs. She is polite and attentive and welcome again anytime.
(Excellent
)
22 Mar 2022
Left by Workawayer (Naëma) for host
I only spend a short period at Esther and Richard's, but it was lovely. Esther and Richard are wonderful and fun people and just as their description says: young at heart.
The masseria and the view was beautiful. The masseria is in the middle of green fields and on top of a hill, so the only thing you hear are the birds and the bees and an… read more
The masseria and the view was beautiful. The masseria is in the middle of green fields and on top of a hill, so the only thing you hear are the birds and the bees and an… read more
20 Mar 2022
Left by Workawayer (Claudia) for host
Our time with Esther and Richard was a great first workaway experience! We especially appreciated their warm hospitality and the inspiring and open-minded conversations.
We were happy to work on a wide variety of different tasks around the house and the garden, like pruning olive trees, cutting bushes, wood painting and many other jobs. All… read more
We were happy to work on a wide variety of different tasks around the house and the garden, like pruning olive trees, cutting bushes, wood painting and many other jobs. All… read more
20 Mar 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Claudia)
It was a pleasure to host this polite and helpful couple. Despite some bad weather, they always had a smile on their faces and did some fantastic work in the vegetable garden, particularly with regard to building some raised beds out of stone, which can be heavy work. They did a great job and the garden looks so much better for their work. Even on… read more
(Excellent
)
10 Mar 2022
Left by Workawayer (Konstantin & Maxie) for host
We stayed with Esther and Richard for two weeks last December, helping them to take care of the garden and the house as described in the profile. Communication was good and expectation from their side were clear. Although, only once we arrived, we had been informed that our departure day must be brought forward by a week as housesitters were… read more
25 Nov 2021
Left by Workawayer (Paige & Andrew) for host
We stayed for two incredible weeks with Esther and Richard in a stunningly beautiful part of Southern Italy. Words cannot describe how kind, welcoming and helpful Esther and Richard were. They were kind enough to pick us up from Matera bus station on the day we arrived, and took us into town to pick up our hire car the next day. Throughout the… read more
24 Nov 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Paige & Andrew)
Paige and Andrew arrived with us (their first workawayer experience) with great enthusiasm and wanting to learn as much as possible. They did an excellent job painting many wooden planks which will be used as cladding. They were diligent, punctual and careful in their work. Both are very chatty and interesting to talk to. Paige particularly… read more
(Excellent
)
4 Nov 2021
Left by Workawayer (Kristina & Mark) for host
We just spent almost 2 weeks at Esthers and Richards wonderful place and we can say that there are not enough stars and space to describe the amazing experience we've had. Richard and Esther are the most kind, lovely, respectful and generous people, great teachers, chefs and you feel just happy being around them. It is a fantastic place, a little… read more
4 Nov 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Kristina & Mark)
Krissy and Mark are due to leave us at the weekend and we don’t want them to go! They have been such a pleasure to host and have been superb help to us. They helped with so many things, everything from the olive harvest; pomegranate harvest; pruning trees; preparing vegetable areas; propagating rosemary and lavender; weeding; helping clean out and… read more
(Excellent
)
16 Oct 2021
Left by Workawayer (Ursula & Martin) for host
Was für eine besondere Zeit !! Wir sind sehr danbkbar für diese Erfahrung : Wir waren für 6 Wochen auf der wunderschönen Masseria von Esther und Richard. Es war unser erste Erfahrung mit Housesitting und wir liebten es, uns um alles zu kümmern, wie um unser eigenes Zuhause. Die Umgebung strahlt Ruhe und Frieden aus, die Lage ist besonders und die… read more
15 Oct 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Ursula & Martin)
The Dynamic Duo have departed and we are so sad. Martin and Ursula stayed at our place for 6 weeks and did an amazing job looking after our home; land; hens and elderly cat. They tackled everything with efficiency and speed and we are going to be eternally grateful for all their hard work and help. We returned from our holiday to find everything… read more
(Excellent
)
12 Mar 2021
Left by Workawayer (Pina & Lukas) for host
The weekend we arrived, it was snowing in this south part of Italy and it was like in a fairitale when we entered the gate and drove up the way to the masseria.
Fortunately they prepared us the guest room to stay, what maked it very confortable. In any way we had a marvelous time with Esther and Richard. We enjoyed the beautiful place with all its… read more
Fortunately they prepared us the guest room to stay, what maked it very confortable. In any way we had a marvelous time with Esther and Richard. We enjoyed the beautiful place with all its… read more
7 Mar 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Pina & Lukas)
Excellent!
We can't say enough complimentary things about Pina and Lucas. They're lovely people, worked really well and enjoyed having their own projects to complete. More importantly, they were able to be left to work on their own initiative, meaning we could get on with other jobs which needed doing. We were delighted to host them and very… read more
We can't say enough complimentary things about Pina and Lucas. They're lovely people, worked really well and enjoyed having their own projects to complete. More importantly, they were able to be left to work on their own initiative, meaning we could get on with other jobs which needed doing. We were delighted to host them and very… read more
(Excellent
)
10 Feb 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Hanna & Johannes Malte)
Hanna and Johannes stayed with us for 2 weeks and were wonderful volunteers. They worked hard; used their initiative; didn’t need to be supervised; had good ideas; completed projects well; were clean and tidy; respected our ecological way of living, but above all else were always cheerful and great to have around. We were in the middle of lockdown… read more
(Excellent
)
9 Feb 2021
Left by Workawayer (Hanna & Johannes Malte) for host
We stayed with Richard and Esther for two weeks. We built walls, cut back many Oleander trees and renewed the raised beds. Richard and Esther are amazing hosts - they always made sure work is not too hard, didn't want to let us work in bad weather and always made sure we have everything we need. Besides the work, we got along really well and… read more
21 Mar 2020
Left by Workawayer (Helen & Stephen) for host
We had a wonderful time with Richard and Esther, and enjoyed their amazing house. We have gone back to the land on a small scale in Idaho, while they have built a more ambitious dream in southern Italy. Their “masseria" ( fortified farm house ) sits in splendid isolation on a hilltop, with an acre of landscaped grounds, then rolling wheat fields… read more
11 Mar 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Helen & Stephen)
We had a great time with Helen and Steve and really appreciate all the help they gave us. They both have a great work ethic and were keen to help us get as many projects completed as possible. They are very knowledgable about vegetables and gardening in general and we were therefore often able to leave them to work unsupervised, enabling us to get… read more
(Excellent
)
9 Dec 2019
Left by Workawayer (Andy & Frances) for host
Esther and Richard couldn't have been more welcoming, friendly and generous. They have created an amazing home in a beautiful part of Southern Italy with outstanding views for miles in every direction. The house is remote but the towns nearby are very interesting - especially Matera with it's famous Sassi and great selection of bars and… read more
1 Dec 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Andy & Frances)
Fran and Andy were a huge help and a delight to have stay with us. In fact, we enjoyed their company so much that we have invited them to come back in Spring, not only to help with more work but also to Housesit for us so that we can get away for a holiday. Despite a couple of VERY wet days during their 2 week stay with us, they did not let this… read more
(Excellent
)
23 Sep 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Maximilian & Lara)
Max and Lara were wonderful volunteers who worked diligently on a number of jobs around the garden. They worked quickly and efficiently and with great humour. More importantly they used their initiative, worked without supervision and made a great job of every task given to them, whether it was stacking logs, weeding, pruning shrubs, turning… read more
(Excellent
)
21 Aug 2019
Left by Workawayer (Lisette) for host
I’ve had the pleasure of staying with Esther and Richard the past week and it feels like I’ve been spoiled. It makes me wonder if next experiences can begin to live up. Esther and Richard are very warm hearted and open people whose company I enjoyed a lot. They both work very hard and I am really impressed by what they have built. Both Richard and… read more
18 Aug 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Lisette)
We hosted Lisette for a week during a particularly hot period of the season. Despite the high temperatures, she proved to be a very willing and able help in the garden, often working when it was too hot for us. She performed all gardening tasks with good humour and was a thorough and speedy worker. She did not need any direction and worked well… read more
(Excellent
)
4 Jun 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Victoria & JM)
Despite only being able to offer Victoria and JM a 5 day stay with us, they were a great help and took on the job of weeding between our oleander bushes running down our driveway. They carried out a very thorough job and the driveway now looks much better thanks to their efforts. On days when it was wet and windy they offered to help with cleaning… read more
(Excellent
)
2 Jun 2019
Left by Workawayer (Victoria & JM) for host
Esther and Richard were very kind to us. They always prepared a three-course lunch for us which was very nice, and gave us some bits and pieces for breakfast and dinner that we’d have in the wonderful private studio we stayed in. Tea breaks were also always lovely, especially with the delicious fresh mint they grew.
We only stayed with them for… read more
We only stayed with them for… read more
8 Apr 2019
Left by Workawayer (Anna) for host
Workaway with Esther and Richard was my first experience of this kind. I was initially hesitant to sign up, but after pouring over the feedback left by previous workawayers and getting in touch with Esther, I have decided to give it a go. And it was the best decision ever!
Richard and Esther are warm, welcoming and so very kind to start with! They… read more
Richard and Esther are warm, welcoming and so very kind to start with! They… read more
16 Mar 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Anna)
Although we don’t generally host single travellers, when Anna first wrote to us we were impressed by her email and happily accepted her offer. We were not disappointed at all. She was an extremely diligent worker and great company. She slotted into our life so easily that the place seems somewhat lost without her. I keep finding evidence of the… read more
(Excellent
)
23 Dec 2018
Left by Workawayer (Claudia & Felix) for host
Esther and Richard are excellent and outstanding hosts!! If we could give more then five stars we definitely would!!
We liked it so much that we stayed two times at their wonderful property. The first stay was two weeks in October 2018 and the second stay was in December :)
We had so much fun together, while working on the land and also while… read more
We liked it so much that we stayed two times at their wonderful property. The first stay was two weeks in October 2018 and the second stay was in December :)
We had so much fun together, while working on the land and also while… read more
8 Nov 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Claudia & Felix)
Claudia and Felix were a HUGE help to us, in fact, so much so, that we have invited them to return for another few weeks in December. They are both very kind, considerate, friendly, organised, structured and above all else a pleasure to have around. Everything we asked them to do they did very willingly, with a smile and with great care and… read more
(Excellent
)
12 Oct 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Neil & Janett)
Janett and Neil are an Aussie/German couple who came to help us earlier in the year. Neil kindly assisted Richard with soil improvement, which meant shifting many tonnes of new compost we'd had delivered. It has a labour intensive job but has led to much improved soil for vegetable planting. Janett did a good job pruning some of our bushes and… read more
(Very good
)
10 Jul 2018
Left by Workawayer (Neil & Janett) for host
Firstly apologies for the late review. Back in late April this year we had the pleasure of being able to complete a weeks workaday with Esther and Richard at their stunning Masseria located on the rolling hills just outside of Matera.
As described the property and the accomodation are 5 star, situated between Matera, with all its history and… read more
As described the property and the accomodation are 5 star, situated between Matera, with all its history and… read more
8 Jul 2018
Left by Workawayer (Andrew & Tracy) for host
We will long be happily reminising about our Workaway experiences with Esther and Richard. They were extremely welcoming hosts when we arrived and friends when we left. If you love tranquillity and working outdoors they can offer you a very rewarding Workaway. They ensure you have opportunities to enjoy the local towns, their culture and cuisines… read more
8 Jul 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Andrew & Tracy)
Tracy and Andy deserve a 10 star rating. If you get the opportunity to host them, don’t hesitate. They are amazing to have around. Both very practical, knowledgable, tidy, hard working and great fun to work and socialise with. They initially came for a week to help complete a couple of projects and help on the land, but we invited them to stay for… read more
(Excellent
)
8 Apr 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Kaylee)
Kaylee and Piers are very personable and easy to accommodate volunteers. This was their first workaway experience and it was clear from the outset that they were eager to understand more about a world outside their home country. They embraced the Italian culture and were keen to absorb and learn as much as they could in their time with me. I'm… read more
(Very good
)
8 Apr 2018
Left by Workawayer (Kaylee) for host
Esther is an excellent host, and it's incredible what she and Richard have done with their property. We stayed with her for about two weeks, and wished we could have stayed longer. We miss having Esther and her pets as company while we went about completing our various projects (weeding, painting, organizing, cleaning, etc). We loved all the fuss… read more
31 Dec 2017
Left by Workawayer (Agostino ) for host
I came as a last minute guest to help Richard lay a tile patio. Though we were both Neophytes, we pressed on, to great acclaim. By who, we don’t know, but, they are out there somewhere, stunned and speechless! Esther and Richard are fabulous hosts! I recommend visiting if you have an interest in southern Italy, particularly the remarkable and now… read more
27 Dec 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Agostino )
We invited Agostino to help on a last minute project to complete a patio which was running behind schedule. His building experience was invaluable and the project was successfully completed with his strong and willing hands. He was unflappable, easy going and good fun to work with. We enjoyed his company so much that we invited him to stay on for… read more
(Excellent
)
28 Nov 2017
Left by Workawayer (Paolo & Mary) for host
We stayed for 4 weeks in November. Matera is an extraordinary place, as is this place!!
Basilicata is a beautiful region with very nice, kind, friendly people.
Esther&Richard are likewise. We felt at home with them, enjoying the work and all the other time we had the occasion to spend together. Their place is like a nice resort: elegant, clean,… read more
Basilicata is a beautiful region with very nice, kind, friendly people.
Esther&Richard are likewise. We felt at home with them, enjoying the work and all the other time we had the occasion to spend together. Their place is like a nice resort: elegant, clean,… read more
29 May 2017
Left by Workawayer (Laura) for host
The oasis of tranquility and comfort that Richard and Esther have built for themselves with much effort, commitment and love is a place that is truly special. Together with my boyfriend we enjoyed nearly two weeks with these two, spending part of that time taking care of the house when they had to take a last minute business trip. We were welcomed… read more
17 May 2017
Left by Workawayer (Milosh & Nicole) for host
Esther and Richard are living their dream and their newly built, very luxury property is a little heaven in the middle of crop fields. They are working really hard to become more and more self-sufficient and we were happy to be able to help them to reach their goals. The work was hard but it is well appreciated from the hosts and we liked to have… read more
13 May 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Milosh & Nicole)
You know you've got strong, determined team players when you discover that these guys are touring Europe for a year on a tandem. They are completely unphased by any obstacle that gets in their way (like a mountain!). As soon as Milo and Nicole arrived you knew it was going to be a fantastic week. They are a friendly and adventurous couple who take… read more
(Excellent
)
5 May 2017
Left by Workawayer (Fabienne & Deni) for host
It's hard to put into words the delightful experience we had here. Life is like une Auberge Espagnole: you will find what you bring, but in this house, things go way beyond. Esther and Ricardo warmly welcomed us in their own top of the hill piece of heaven with much joy, laughter, énergy, interesting projects, and a touching attention to those… read more
1 May 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Fabienne & Deni)
What an amazing couple Fabienne and Deni are. We are honoured that they chose to spend a week with us. They arrived as workaway volunteers and left as friends. They are both such lovely, gregarious, intelligent, fun people who worked really hard alongside us on a number of outdoor jobs. We managed to get a lot of projects started (and finished)… read more
(Excellent
)
11 Mar 2017
Left by Workawayer (Katerina & Michal) for host
It was our first experience of working abroad and I have to tell that Esther and Richard are amazing people.
They were kind all the time as well as friendly and they were smilling during our accomodation.
We had pleasure of tasting italian food, carnival visit and their tolerance because of our imperfect english language.
Richard is by the way… read more
They were kind all the time as well as friendly and they were smilling during our accomodation.
We had pleasure of tasting italian food, carnival visit and their tolerance because of our imperfect english language.
Richard is by the way… read more
7 Mar 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Katerina & Michal)
Katerina and Michal have been a delight to host. They have worked hard and helped us tremendously on the land getting everything prepared for the spring. We've been clearing the land of the winter weeds; planting shrubs; laying driveways; preparing vegetable plots; clearing stones; moving chopped wood to name but a few jobs they have helped on.… read more
(Excellent
)
25 Dec 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Sarah & Adam)
Sarah and Adam were a delight to host and we are very grateful for all the help they gave us. They are a friendly, relaxed couple who fitted in well into our household and with our pets. Our rescue dog particularly took to them and enjoyed lots of fuss.
We worked well together finishing off building a pond which has been a long term project.… read more
We worked well together finishing off building a pond which has been a long term project.… read more
(Excellent
)
7 Dec 2016
Left by Workawayer (Sarah & Adam) for host
We have just finished a wonderful Workaway stay here with Esther and Richard, and of course we cannot forget Bimba, Fluffy and Smudge.
Esther and Richard are a welcoming and friendly couple and we shared in lots of interesting and funny conversations. They were both really helpful and always offered to drive us into town so we could explore. We… read more
Esther and Richard are a welcoming and friendly couple and we shared in lots of interesting and funny conversations. They were both really helpful and always offered to drive us into town so we could explore. We… read more
5 Nov 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Lucas & Sommer)
If you are lucky enough to have Lucas and Sommer come help you out then you will not be disappointed. They are a delightful couple - always cheerful and happy to assist with any task given to them. They use their initiative and everything they did was with a smile on their face. We enjoyed their company so much that we invited them back for a… read more
(Excellent
)
5 Nov 2016
Left by Workawayer (Lucas & Sommer) for host
Esther and Richard are totally awesome! We were lucky enough to get to spend time with them on two separate occasions and both were fantastic! Their both super easy to get on with and fun people even their fur babies are awesome and they truly want you to experience their amazing location! They planned several fun outings for us to really get to… read more
19 Sep 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Maria Ornella & Nicolas)
Ornella and Nicolas are perfect volunteers and were a pleasure to host. Despite the bad weather and being unable to finish the design of our pond, they threw themselves into alternative tasks and were a great help on the land and around the house, always offering to help with odd jobs and even giving creative inspiration for some of our other… read more
(Excellent
)
18 Sep 2016
Left by Workawayer (Maria Ornella & Nicolas) for host
Richard and Esther are great hosts and incredible people to be around. We shared with them one incredible week, working hard but also having a good amount of free time to relax and visit Matera and surroundings.
Even if the weather was not the best we helped them with many tasks, mainly gardening and weeding.
Their property is an incredible… read more
Even if the weather was not the best we helped them with many tasks, mainly gardening and weeding.
Their property is an incredible… read more
1 Aug 2016
Left by Workawayer (MARIA VICTORIA & Mercedes carolina ) for host
Working in Esther and Richard´s beautiful house was our first experience in workaway and it couldn´t be better. They are great hosts, such a lovely couple. We felt really confortable with them and enjoyed every single day there.
The work was hard, but very organized so We didn´t have any problem, and Esther was always taking care of us,… read more
The work was hard, but very organized so We didn´t have any problem, and Esther was always taking care of us,… read more
21 Jul 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (MARIA VICTORIA & Mercedes carolina )
Cousins Vicky and Mercedes were an absolute delight to host and we really enjoyed having them as part of our family for 11 days. They were a great help in the garden, always on hand to assist with pruning, tidying up and all the odd jobs which build up when you have a large outside plot with lots of land. They even managed to find a total of 6… read more
(Excellent
)
13 Jul 2016
Left by Workawayer (Bryan & Carolyn) for host
So sorry about taking so long to leave this! We enjoyed our time here with Esther and Richard! The work can vary, they are very organized, and have a nice list of things that need to be done around the house. A good chunk of what we did was weeding, lots of rain helped a lot of them grow! We would wake up have breakfast, then work until lunch,… read more
21 Jun 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Bryan & Carolyn)
Bryan and Carolyn were a delight to host. We thoroughly enjoyed their lively and friendly approach to life and we are very grateful for all the help that they gave us around the property. They did a fantastic job weeding our driveway and used their initiative in helping out with odd jobs around the property. We enjoyed their company and would… read more
(Excellent
)
1 Jul 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Madison & Alexander )
Maddy and Alex were a lovely addition to the family to have help us for a week. They are a quiet, polite and helpful team who did a great job helping us on our land with a number of projects. They did a particularly good job of weeding the front entrance to our property to expose hidden plants. Although young, they are a mature couple and have… read more
(Excellent
)
30 Jun 2016
Left by Workawayer (Madison & Alexander ) for host
What an amazing week with Esther and Richard! The week we spent in the south of Italy was filled with excellent company, beautiful surroundings and delicious food. Esther and Richard are such an interesting, friendly and cultured couple. Each with their own fascinating stories and views on life, we loved learning, sharing and enjoyed their company… read more
27 May 2016
Left by Workawayer (Ella) for host
Esther and Richard were wonderful hosts, we arrived as strangers and left as part of their family, fur children included. We were welcomed and made to feel at home from the start, sharing late night panzerotti or afternoon bbq's with friends. Whether it be working hard in the sun or relaxing in the picturesque countryside, We will have many fond… read more
26 May 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Ella)
Ella and Sam are an AMAZING couple whom we invited to stay longer than the initial week they were booked in for - they were such good fun and doing a great job helping us out. Ella put her creative skills to fantastic use by designing and laying a new pathway for us and Sam helped us to complete a number of outstanding electrical jobs (fitting… read more
(Excellent
)
2 Apr 2016
Left by Workawayer (Hannah & Eoghan) for host
First of all, this isn't a work away for people who want crazy night life. If you get a place working for Richard and Esther think of it as a chillout week. There house and the surrounding countryside is beautiful, however the week we were there the wifi was down which did lead to it becoming a little boring at times due to to the inability to… read more
31 Mar 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Hannah & Eoghan)
Hannah and Owen are a lovely young couple who helped us immensely by stacking a whole lorry load of fire wood; weeding large areas of the garden; painting a shed and building an area for a new water tank. They had enthusiasm, worked diligently and were always pleasant to be around. They asked questions where necessary and were intuitive enough to… read more
(Excellent
)
16 Dec 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Christina & David)
It was a pleasure to host Tina and David, who are an interesting and self sufficient couple. We enjoyed getting to know them. They were a big help around the gardens, both of them more than happy to work on their own initiative and pick up on jobs we had already started but not managed to get finished. I can't thank them enough for picking all the… read more
(Excellent
)
16 Dec 2015
Left by Workawayer (Christina & David) for host
We spent a wonderful but short week with Esther and Richard at their beautiful home near Matera in late fall. The weather held out for us and things were greening up after a hot summer. It was a great time of year to be in the area! During the week we enjoyed getting to know them, along with their sweet dog Bimba, and two cats Smudgie and Fluffy.… read more
2 Nov 2015
Left by Workawayer (Robert & Mickey) for host
This workaway will definitely be a highlight during our 1.5 year trip around the world! We stayed for about 10 days and enjoyed every minute. The work is true to the description and the food is even better! Mickey and I pulled many weeds around the house, squeezed some fresh pomegranate juice for the winter, cleaned up some cob webs during a rainy… read more
29 Oct 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Robert & Mickey)
Robert and Mikey were a pleasure to host. They were great volunteers and worked hard every day helping with work on the land, including building a dam to divert rainwater during the winter. They were very active and nothing was too much trouble for them. They helped around the house and were good fun. They were very tidy and always cleared away… read more
(Excellent
)
1 Oct 2015
Left by Workawayer (Rochelle) for host
Esther and Richard are a lovely semi-retired English couple who have come to the south of Italy to establish their lives in a region they love. They have a lot of land and are several years into establishing their green oasis (with the weather, soil, and sparse water situation - very challenging! A few more years and it should be… read more
27 Sep 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Rochelle)
These two really are the Dream Team .... If you are lucky enough to have Rochelle and Peggy stay with you then you won't be disappointed. Energetic, enthusiast, full of life, happy to help out with every thing and anything, they were a delight to have stay. We can't thank them enough for all their help and input on our land. We now have curb… read more
(Excellent
)
28 Jun 2015
Left by Workawayer (Katherine & Morgan ) for host
Esther and Richard were wonderful hosts. They created a structured work environment, allowing us to know our daily schedule, which was great. The work varied from pulling weeds to moving wood. The house is beautiful with views overlooking the surrounding wheat fields. Matera is a great city to visit with a lot to explore. While their home is… read more
22 Jun 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Katherine & Morgan )
Katherine and Morgan stayed with us for a week in June and helped with pruning our roses; giving our driveway "curb appeal" and planting out the summer seeds in our vegetable plot. They are lovely, friendly girls who were very tidy and a pleasure to have around, always giving the pets lots of welcomed fuss. They were unobtrusive happy to work… read more
(Excellent
)
15 May 2015
Left by Workawayer (Hannah & Toby) for host
We had an absolutely fantastic time staying with Esther and Richard, they welcomed us into their home and made us feel like part of the family. They have a beautiful home and our accommodation felt like a luxury hotel. The daily lunch cooked by Richard was always delicious and of a high standard, a few glasses of wine alongside this helped us feel… read more
14 May 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Hannah & Toby)
Hannah and Toby were both a delight to have around. They were the perfect volunteers - hard working yet fun at the same time. An educated couple with whom we enjoyed many good debates and discussions over lunches and a few glasses of wine. We felt very comfortable introducing them to our friends and really integrating with our life. Aside from… read more
(Excellent
)
19 Mar 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Michael & Abigail)
It has been a pleasure to work with Michael and Abigail for the last week. They came at short notice so we could take advantage of some dry weather and prepare the garden for the new season. As it turned out, the weather was not too kind to us for a few days but that didn't dampen their spirits. They worked hard and with good humour, weeding,… read more
(Excellent
)
17 Mar 2015
Left by Workawayer (Michael & Abigail) for host
We stayed at this place for 6 days and had a wonderful time. The accomodation is lovely and the grounds are breathtakingly beautiful. Richard was an excellent host and was kind enough to show us around nearby cities to explore. The work was hard but you're not overworked and we enjoyed working on the land. Richard is an excellent cook as well and… read more
28 Dec 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Rosalyn & Jeff )
Ros and Jeff were a lively, positive and friendly couple to have around. They came well prepared with their work boots and were eager to get stuck in. They helped with moving logs, cleaning patios, weeding the gardens and washing down our huge pool cover. We got on very well with them and enjoyed their company. They were always on hand to help… read more
(Very good
)
25 Dec 2014
Left by Workawayer (Rosalyn & Jeff ) for host
What a shame this workaway experience was shorter than we would have liked due to Christmas as we would have loved to have stayed longer. Richard and Esther are wonderful hosts who are so warm, friendly and welcoming. Thank you for giving us an insight into what it is like to live in Italian society and one day I wish to be able to host as great a… read more
25 Nov 2014
Left by Workawayer (Tyler & Jenna ) for host
Jenna and I had an amazing time with Esther and Richard, they made us feel right at home and they are both very easy to get along with . We had more than a few laughs over a glass of wine and Richards awesome food . They were more than happy to take us into town and get supplies as well with teaching us about the surrounding towns ,matera and… read more
23 Nov 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Tyler & Jenna )
What a delight this couple were to host. Lively, bubbly, hard working and great fun to have around. Always cheerful, always willing to help around the house and a great help to complete a whole host of jobs for us. They did a fantastic job staining our outside furniture (looks like new again); painted a shed; did some weeding; leveled some gravel;… read more
(Excellent
)
17 Nov 2014
Left by Workawayer (Isaac & Carol) for host
Our stay with Esther, Richard, Smudge, Fluffy and Bimba was fantastic! They are extremely friendly, incredibly generous, great fun and cook delicious food! Their grounds and the nearby city of Matera are gorgeous and well worth a visit. Esther and Richard were kind enough to show us around and introduce us to their friends, which made for some… read more
15 Nov 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Isaac & Carol)
Isaac and Carol were with us for 10 days in November and were a great help in and around our house and gardens. They helped us with stacking logs; cleaning vaulted ceilings; pruning roses as well as a whole host of other jobs including extensive weeding. They were an amazing help and undertook every task with enthusiasm and in helpful, friendly… read more
(Excellent
)
5 Oct 2014
Left by Workawayer (Allison & Timothy) for host
Our week at the masseria was a real treat! We felt very lucky to experience the beautiful life these two have made for themselves in the countryside. Our hard work in the mornings was always rewarded with pool time, a spectacular lunch (with meat, glorious meat) and plenty of wine. Esther and Richard are smart, hilarious, fun-loving, life-loving… read more
4 Oct 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Allison & Timothy)
Ally and Tim were a pleasure to have stay with us. They are a positive, happy couple who were keen to chip in and help with everything we needed doing around the gardens. They did a great job clearing the weeds down our driveway and we all had fun lighting the many bonfires of weeds. They were keen to ask us op what we needed help with and always… read more
(Excellent
)
21 May 2014
Left by Workawayer (Kelli) for host
What an amazing experience staying with Esther,Richard, Bimba,Fluffy and Smudge. I was welcomed into there family from day one and enjoyed every day. Not only is the masseria a beautiful place to be but I enjoyed the most beautiful food . I enjoyed working in your garden,your company and most of all your friendship which will last longer than my… read more
20 May 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Kelli)
It was an absolute delight to host Kelli for 10 days. She fitted into our household perfectly from day one and we both really enjoyed her company. The work she undertook was most outside helping us tidy up our extensive garden ready for the summer. This involved pruning roses, weeding; planting out vegetables; finding new homes for plants;… read more
(Excellent
)
15 May 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Akiko)
Akiko was a lovely, quiet lady who was extremely tidy and polite. She is a brave woman travelling alone around Europe and will have some amazing stories to tell after her extensive travels. She was enthusiastic about helping us on the land and in the house and worked steadily. Unfortunately the weather was not on our side during her visit so we… read more
(Good
)
9 May 2014
Left by Workawayer (Akiko) for host
This was my first workaway experience and I think I was spoiled!! I spent 10 days with Esther and Richard in their gorgeous masseria. They were such a lovely couple!
Work was mainly in the garden but was not limited to weeding; they let me do the fun portions as well like picking beans and peas, planting tomatoes, and painting the shed. Of… read more
Work was mainly in the garden but was not limited to weeding; they let me do the fun portions as well like picking beans and peas, planting tomatoes, and painting the shed. Of… read more
23 Apr 2014
Left by Workawayer (Brad) for host
This was our first workaway experience!
Our tasks were discussed over breakfast in the morning (wonderful croissants plus fruit, toast and cornflakes) and consisted of weeding around Esther and Richards beautiful home which we stayed at for 2 weeks.
The house is stunning! I remember our first day being shown around the house and meeting their… read more
Our tasks were discussed over breakfast in the morning (wonderful croissants plus fruit, toast and cornflakes) and consisted of weeding around Esther and Richards beautiful home which we stayed at for 2 weeks.
The house is stunning! I remember our first day being shown around the house and meeting their… read more
13 Apr 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Brad)
We have had the pleasure to host Abby and Brad for two weeks here in southern Italy on their travels around Asia and Europe. This was their first workawayer experience and they entered into it in full spirits. They did a great job helping with extensive weeding and garden projects. They used their own initiative and carried out their tasks… read more
(Excellent
)
16 Dec 2013
Left by host for Workawayer (Nick & Sara)
This was Sara and Nicks first workaway experience and they were a pleasure to have as part of our family. Sara is a pastry chef and spent many hours baking cakes, cookies and pastries for our freezer which I really appreciated in the run up to Christmas as I have overseas visitors arriving in a few days. Nick did a good job raking our long… read more
(Very good
)
1 Nov 2013
Left by Workawayer (Sara ) for host
Esther and Richard..... I have to start this off by saying WOW! what a truly wonderful couple! They were so gracious to us, and really made us feel as though we were part of their family! We stayed in their beautiful Masseria, and Richard cooked lunch for us everyday which was always AMAZING! They introduced us to their friends (who we now call… read more
26 Oct 2013
Left by host for Workawayer (Sara )
This was Sara and Bradens first workaway experience and they were an absolute DELIGHT to have as part of our family. They worked hard on every assignment we gave them (mostly gardening, but also some hard landscaping). They built an amazing terrace for us which we have been wanting to complete for several months, and even turned their hand to… read more
(Excellent
)
19 Jul 2013
Left by Workawayer (Hannah & Simon ) for host
We spent 2 weeks at the villa in Italy with Esther and Richard. The villa is absolutely gorgeous and luxurious. It was a really special place to have as a base when we weren't working as the nearby towns are very local, authentic and friendly places to explore.
The work consisted of 5 hours per day with tasks varying from weeding to heavy labour.… read more
The work consisted of 5 hours per day with tasks varying from weeding to heavy labour.… read more
5 Jul 2013
Left by host for Workawayer (Hannah & Simon )
Simon and Hannah were a delight to have staying with us and working on a number of projects, including garden maintenance, hard landscaping and general assistance around the property. We could not have asked for a better couple as our first experience with Workawayers. They were both extremely cheerful, positive, helpful and funny to have around.… read more
(Excellent
)
