Profile information
Host rating
80 %
Last replied
21 Feb 2024
Feedback
92
Facebook verified
Email verified
Badges (3)
Details
Description
We are a British couple who have moved to Central Europe to make a more sustainable life for ourselves and explore a different culture at an interesting point in history. We're located in beautiful South Bohemia on the edge of the Czech Lake District and Highlands, 70 miles south of Prague.
We live with several hens, merino sheep, a goat, an alpaca/llama, a gottingen pig and two rescue dogs. Our newest herd member is a young Jersey cow. Our cat and one dog came from families in Prague who wanted to give their animals a better life, and we have one ancient Dalmation who came here after her owner died. She is completely deaf and barks a lot.
We grow several perennial veggies, and have a good understanding of the many wild foods in the area. We eat eggs from the hens, as well as milk from our goat Dijon, even though she has never had a kid. We eat a lot of home cooked & veggie food using local ingredients.
Contact us if you are curious, self motivated and up for a bit of hard work. Please arrange to arrive on a Monday.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Animal Care
Farmstay help
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
General Maintenance
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
If you are here for more than two weeks you can work towards a Certificate of Accomplishment in sustainable life skills. This will mean completing a check-list of tasks including learning to milk the goat, identifying edible wild greens and making a repair.
Help
We are a small homestead & garden project. We work hard - there is a lot to do - but have a very good quality of life in this beautiful area. Currently we are looking for practical volunteers who can help around the house & garden, as well as get involved in the ongoing renovation projects.
We host volunteers from spring to autumn. While there's snow on the ground there's not so much to do so we don't invite volunteers during those months.
Languages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Czech: IntermediateThis 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
Twin beds in private rooms
What else ...
Breathtaking countryside surrounds the property, both forests and open fields. The country roads are lined with pear, plum and cherry trees, and there's an abundance of wild flowers such as chamomile, poppies and cornflowers. Visitors to the area often spend time picking mushrooms and wild fruit (cranberries, bilberries, strawberries & raspberries all grow in the forest near the house). Other local wildlife include deer & wild boars. In the summer the garden is lively with birdsong, you can visit the bats in the attic and watch the firefly in the evening. In the winter there are wood fires, snow cover, blue skies and beautiful frosted trees.
Local sights includes the Hussite fortress town Tábor, plentiful walks and cycle routes (on well marked out routes), a narrow gauge railway, Cervena Lhota (a red castle in a lake with an outdoor theatre) and countless outdoor swimming opportunities.
There is a village with a beautiful chocolate cafe, basic shops, pubs and a new high end restaurant 4km from the house, from where there is a direct bus to Prague. There is a (n early) daily bus from outside the door to Ceske Budejovice - the main town of the region.
The house is two miles from the site of the last Czech Hussite battle in 1435. The property is well situated for those wishing to visit the 7 World Heritage sites in the area.
While you are here, we would love to teach you what we know about sustainable living, edible mushrooms, wild greens, knitting and restoring woodwork.
As well as foraging for mushrooms and wild greens, we bake our own bread, and make our own pasta using fresh eggs from our hens. One of us is veggie and the other is a keen cook - so we're always happy to accommodate herbivores, omnivores and anything in between. We eat a sustainable diet which is mainly veggie, but we don't waste anything.
We can host workawayers from whenever the snow melts in the spring (usually by April) to when it falls again in the winter (Novemberish). Though we have space for a housekeeper (or a couple) over the winter you would have to be hardy souls to deal with the cold.
To reach us there is a SINGLE daily bus to the house, which you can connect with by a train from Prague late Monday morning.
Please let us know in your first email approximately when you would like to visit.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Space for parking camper vans
This host can provide space for campervans.
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Hours expected
Usually 5 hours per day plus communal meals and chores. Minimum 2 weeks.
Host ref number: 7941336554a3
Feedback (38)
5 Mar 2022
Left by Workawayer (Florian & Chloé) for host
We spend three wonderful weeks with Nic and Mike cooking for them and helping in the house. We really felt like home surrended by their lovely animals and having the chance to meet their friends.
Nic and Mike are really nice and understanding people, you would have definitely good time with them.
Thanks again for having us.
Nic and Mike are really nice and understanding people, you would have definitely good time with them.
Thanks again for having us.
29 Jun 2017
Left by Workawayer (Giovanni) for host
I had such a good experience with Nic and Mike. There were so lovely with me and was really great learn something new like about greens, how take milk from Dijon goat (I loved her) and how make cheese. I had need these experience for relaxing and found something new.
I hope you doing well and to see you again soon.
Un abbraccio fioraria :)
I hope you doing well and to see you again soon.
Un abbraccio fioraria :)
1 Jun 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Daniel & Emma)
Em and Dan were really excellent volunteers. They participated whole-heartedly in all activities here - even things that they had never tried before such as yoga. They had a genuine desire to learn all we could teach them and have made a visible contribution to the infrastructure here in 2017.
We much enjoyed their good humour and were grateful… read more
We much enjoyed their good humour and were grateful… read more
(Excellent
)
26 May 2017
Left by Workawayer (Daniel & Emma) for host
The time we spent with Nic & Mike was fantastic! They are great hosts, easy to hang out with, and had great fun living and working on their property. We loved spending time with all the farm animals, and Bunbury and the cats too. We learned so many useful things like making bread and pasta. The place has so much potential, we would love to come… read more
Feedback
5 Mar 2022
Left by Workawayer (Florian & Chloé) for host
We spend three wonderful weeks with Nic and Mike cooking for them and helping in the house. We really felt like home surrended by their lovely animals and having the chance to meet their friends.
Nic and Mike are really nice and understanding people, you would have definitely good time with them.
Thanks again for having us.
Nic and Mike are really nice and understanding people, you would have definitely good time with them.
Thanks again for having us.
29 Jun 2017
Left by Workawayer (Giovanni) for host
I had such a good experience with Nic and Mike. There were so lovely with me and was really great learn something new like about greens, how take milk from Dijon goat (I loved her) and how make cheese. I had need these experience for relaxing and found something new.
I hope you doing well and to see you again soon.
Un abbraccio fioraria :)
I hope you doing well and to see you again soon.
Un abbraccio fioraria :)
1 Jun 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Daniel & Emma)
Em and Dan were really excellent volunteers. They participated whole-heartedly in all activities here - even things that they had never tried before such as yoga. They had a genuine desire to learn all we could teach them and have made a visible contribution to the infrastructure here in 2017.
We much enjoyed their good humour and were grateful… read more
We much enjoyed their good humour and were grateful… read more
(Excellent
)
26 May 2017
Left by Workawayer (Daniel & Emma) for host
The time we spent with Nic & Mike was fantastic! They are great hosts, easy to hang out with, and had great fun living and working on their property. We loved spending time with all the farm animals, and Bunbury and the cats too. We learned so many useful things like making bread and pasta. The place has so much potential, we would love to come… read more
2 May 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Wanchun)
Our first volunteer of the year was a great fit. Kaya hit the ground running and worked very hard every day after immediately doing a thorough clean of the house. She was able to work with very little supervision and made several very useful suggestions of improvements we could make as she went along.
Though claiming not to be a great chef, we… read more
Though claiming not to be a great chef, we… read more
(Excellent
)
2 May 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Sarah & Liz)
We had great fun hosting Liz and Sarah and hearing all their tales of life up north. They have a huge bundle of skills which any host could learn from and were generally excellent company to boot.
They were both very hardy and used to the homestead environment. They were extremely practical and trustworthy. I would have not hesitation in leaving… read more
They were both very hardy and used to the homestead environment. They were extremely practical and trustworthy. I would have not hesitation in leaving… read more
(Excellent
)
23 Apr 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Caitlin & Skyler)
It was great fun to host Caitlin and Skyler, who were lovely company, accomplished cooks and keen to learn from their time here.
The denim sofa covers look really great! Many thanks for all your help.
The denim sofa covers look really great! Many thanks for all your help.
(Excellent
)
28 Oct 2016
Left by Workawayer (Caitlin & Skyler) for host
Nic and Mike - Thank you for a wonderful two weeks together! This is a place where, with an open mind and hard work, you will learn a LOT. We learned about pruning cherry trees, we learned a ton about permaculture, we learned about foraging for, and cooking, delicious wild mushrooms, apple picking techniques, we learned how to cut down all the… read more
12 Apr 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Vincent)
Many thanks for your help, guys! Vincent and Jennifer worked hard, cooked delicious food and helped us with a wide variety of tasks. They were a pleasure to host, and a calming influence on a rather rumbunctious group. I will never forget the cheesecake.
(Excellent
)
18 Sep 2016
Left by Workawayer (Vincent) for host
We spent 10 days in Nový Mlýn with Nicola and Mike. They were lovely hosts and made us feel welcome. It was nice that our work was always appreciated & Nicola was flexible with our work.
During our stay we shared tasks with other workawayers, we worked on household tasks and other outdoor jobs such as moving compost and sorting wool. The three… read more
During our stay we shared tasks with other workawayers, we worked on household tasks and other outdoor jobs such as moving compost and sorting wool. The three… read more
27 Mar 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Graeme & Victoria )
Graeme and Victoria were great workaway visitors.
They are very experienced volunteers which makes a massive difference. They hit the ground running and immediately made themselves useful.
Through the winter I have been lighting the fires with the wood that they gathered, and we often have Shaksuka for breakfast using the salsa we jarred… read more
They are very experienced volunteers which makes a massive difference. They hit the ground running and immediately made themselves useful.
Through the winter I have been lighting the fires with the wood that they gathered, and we often have Shaksuka for breakfast using the salsa we jarred… read more
(Excellent
)
7 Oct 2016
Left by Workawayer (Graeme & Victoria ) for host
We spent 4 fantastic weeks with Nicola and Mike. The work was varied and interesting. We learnt a great deal about sustainability, gardening and animals. Milking Dijon the goat, feeding the ducks and chickens and taking bumberry the dog for walks were the highlights of our day. Nicola and Mike were great hosts and took us to many beautiful places… read more
31 Jul 2016
Left by Workawayer (Tadhg) for host
Me and a friend had an amazing 3 weeks(ish) here. Mike and nic are very friendly,open and fun people. We felt comfortable in their home straight away. They also introduced us to many of their friends , who like Mike and nic have become good friends.
I learned a lot in my time there and if nothing else how to make many delicious dishes and tried… read more
I learned a lot in my time there and if nothing else how to make many delicious dishes and tried… read more
26 Jun 2016
Left by Workawayer (Anna) for host
Nic and Mike are the best of hosts - warm, welcoming and generous.
They have a serious commitment to sustainable living and years of experience of homesteading in Czechia. They have a lot going on and there is always something interesting to do: from foraging to gardening to animal husbandry to DIY renovation to composting toilets to soap and… read more
They have a serious commitment to sustainable living and years of experience of homesteading in Czechia. They have a lot going on and there is always something interesting to do: from foraging to gardening to animal husbandry to DIY renovation to composting toilets to soap and… read more
25 Jun 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Anna)
Anna is a practical and knowledgeable volunteer. She works hard and is great at both following instructions as well as figuring out what she can do to be helpful without being asked. We were able to leave her to house sit and look after our animals while we went away for a weekend.
She has some specific skills around sustainable lifestyles -… read more
She has some specific skills around sustainable lifestyles -… read more
(Excellent
)
19 Jun 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Ying Ying)
As a volunteer Ying Ying is hard working, smart and funny. She's a pleasure to have around and I would have been happy to host her for the entire summer.
The garden is now transformed from her sterling efforts to rescue the spiral after several weeks of daily rain. She almost single handedly planted out all the seedlings we'd started inside. … read more
The garden is now transformed from her sterling efforts to rescue the spiral after several weeks of daily rain. She almost single handedly planted out all the seedlings we'd started inside. … read more
(Excellent
)
19 Jun 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Sayuri)
Sayuri was a very nice volunteer to host. It was really great to learn so much from her - she cooked some great Japanese food and even made us traditional green tea.
Sayuri works with great care and attention to detail. We set her the task of painting and she was very precise. She also helped us run a wedding photo booth at an event in Prague… read more
Sayuri works with great care and attention to detail. We set her the task of painting and she was very precise. She also helped us run a wedding photo booth at an event in Prague… read more
(Excellent
)
24 May 2016
Left by Workawayer (Sayuri) for host
Sorry for my late feedback. I had great time with you Nicola and Mike! Even in 2 weeks stay, there are lots of precious memories for me. Thank you so much.
We enjoyed cultural exchange among Czech, England and Japan ("Itadakimasu." before every meal and so on). Every food was amazing, with lots of vegetables and fresh eggs. Both of Mike and… read more
We enjoyed cultural exchange among Czech, England and Japan ("Itadakimasu." before every meal and so on). Every food was amazing, with lots of vegetables and fresh eggs. Both of Mike and… read more
24 Dec 2015
Left by Workawayer (Barbara) for host
My first workaway experience couldn´t be better! I learned so many things... How does workaway working, how it is to share someone´s home, garden.... I tried milking Dijon, feeding animals, kill the duck.... I´ve new knowledge about wild eatable plants and mushrooms. But all these things I was able to do only thanks to Nic and Mike! I really… read more
15 Jul 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Barbara)
Barbara was our first volunteer from the Czech Republic, and it was really great to have her stay with us. She is very pleasant company as well as a hard worker. I learned a lot from her about many different things. She has a lot of experience with food and is a good garden helper.
Barbara made lots of interesting food - traditional Czech… read more
Barbara made lots of interesting food - traditional Czech… read more
(Excellent
)
21 Oct 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Ember)
Ember was a pleasure to host. Her approach to all new tasks was resoundingly professional. She took on a variety of tasks with great success - from digging out muddy ditches to mastering goat milking. Ember was always willing to roll up her sleeves and get stuck in, or climb up a tree, or jump into a silted stream.
After work it was always… read more
After work it was always… read more
(Excellent
)
2 Sep 2015
Left by Workawayer (Ember) for host
My month with Nic and Mike has been an absolute highlight of my trip and I feel incredibly lucky to have spent so much time there. They were so welcoming and friendly I felt like part of the family. Updating my friends back home, they were all so jealous of my experiences, new skills and picturesque surroundings.
Every work day was well… read more
Every work day was well… read more
21 Oct 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Derek)
Derek was entertaining company and had something to say about almost every topic. He is the most chivalrous guest we have ever had here and was constantly offering to carry things for me. Derek's keen interest in physical fitness meant that he was really great at some of the more athletically challenging tasks such as shifting bags of sand and… read more
(Excellent
)
8 Sep 2015
Left by Workawayer (Derek) for host
Words are barely able to describe the amazing experience I had with Mike and Nic on their farm. I've learned so much from them in the 2.5 weeks spent here. Mike is a solid gent and Nic is one of the strongest women I have ever met; in mind, body and spirit. Thank you for letting me have this experience, it was incredible. I'll miss you most of all… read more
12 Aug 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Natalya)
I am really glad to have met Natalya, who was quiet, sincere and always willing to help. Natalya was able to take control of all domestic activities immediately and with minimal supervision - I really just had to show her where the cleaning equipment was kept. She was also happy to take on jobs which were outside of her experience - such as… read more
(Excellent
)
11 Aug 2015
Left by Workawayer (Natalya) for host
I will always keep sweet memories about the time I spent here. It is amazingly beautiful place, surrounded by forests and fields. While staying there, I had a possibility to discover South Bohemia better. The household itself filled with a peaceful and kind atmosphere, created by its owners, Nicola and Mike. I will always remember their attitude, … read more
9 Aug 2015
Left by Workawayer (Angel) for host
OH MY where to start?? Nic and Mike were seriously excellent hosts. The tasks for the day were well-organized and always made me feel accomplished, no matter what the size. The work itself seemed to be pretty diverse, from feeding the adorable animals to weeding patches to learning a new Moroccan plaster technique! I really enjoyed being able to… read more
15 Jul 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Angel)
It was a pleasure to host Angel. She works hard and is very entertaining.
I was able to delagate jobs to her straight away and she learned some tricky things very quickly - such as how to milk the goat. She also cooked some interesting meals from the Enchanted Broccoli Forest cook book...
I was able to delagate jobs to her straight away and she learned some tricky things very quickly - such as how to milk the goat. She also cooked some interesting meals from the Enchanted Broccoli Forest cook book...
(Excellent
)
4 Aug 2015
Left by Workawayer (Kathryn) for host
Our stay with Nic and Mike was amazing, one of our best workaway experiences! They have a really beautiful place surrounded by great nature and stunning places to visit and walk around. We learnt so many things working with the animals and organizing stuff in the house, the vegetable patches and the barns. The food was great and we got to learn… read more
15 Jul 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Kathryn)
It was lovely to host Kathryn and Nacho.
Nacho is great at organising things and is particularly keen to take on jobs that can be completed. Kathryn also works hard and made a huge difference to the garden. We ate some delicous meals - including some tasty Spanish specialities. They were also a lot of fun to be around.
I would definitely… read more
Nacho is great at organising things and is particularly keen to take on jobs that can be completed. Kathryn also works hard and made a huge difference to the garden. We ate some delicous meals - including some tasty Spanish specialities. They were also a lot of fun to be around.
I would definitely… read more
(Excellent
)
15 Jul 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Jessica & Greg)
Many thanks for coming Jessica, it was really great to host you.
(Excellent
)
5 Oct 2012
Left by Workawayer (Jessica & Greg) for host
We could not have imagined a better first work-exchange. Mike and Nic are some of the most hospitable and friendly people we've ever met! The work day is laid out efficiently so that no one feels like they're being conned. You will work hard, but the reward is great: beautiful countryside, loads of tasty mushrooms, and enough home-grown food to… read more
15 Jul 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (RORY)
Rory is reliable and a hard worker. He really got stuck in with the jobs we gave him and was happy to take the lead when necessary. Even with tasks which were less familiar to him, like cooking veggie food for a large number of people, he soon found his feet. He is a good all-rounder and welcome back any time.
(Excellent
)
15 Jul 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Gabby)
Gabby is a great volunteer and I feel that she had a really positive influence on life here. She was also great fun to spend time with. If you had a problem, she would find a pragmatic solution. If you had a cupboard full of unused stuff, she would know how get that stuff sorted out.
I'm really glad I had the chance to get to know Gabby and hope… read more
I'm really glad I had the chance to get to know Gabby and hope… read more
(Excellent
)
15 Jul 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Alex)
I thoroughly enjoyed my time hosting Alex. She got stuck in as soon as she arrived and this can-do spirit was evident during her entire stay. She was always happy to do the jobs I asked her to do, and was happy to take responsibility for specific daily activities such as milking the goat in the evening, something she became proficient in. She… read more
(Excellent
)
13 Jun 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Rob & David)
Rob and Dave were great volunteers and would be very welcome back here any time. They were no fuss and got on with things with very little supervision.
While here they cut a huge quantity of wood which has kept us warm all winter. They rennovated an old chicken coop which we now use on a daily basis to keep our baby birds safe at night. They… read more
While here they cut a huge quantity of wood which has kept us warm all winter. They rennovated an old chicken coop which we now use on a daily basis to keep our baby birds safe at night. They… read more
(Excellent
)
18 Apr 2015
Left by Workawayer (Rob & David) for host
We stayed with Mike & Nic on their farm for three weeks, it was our first time as workawayers and we both thoroughly enjoyed the experience. We couldn't have asked for better hosts and we'd like to thank them both for being so hospitable and for their generosity throughout our stay. We were particularly struck by the sustainable way in which they… read more
19 May 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Luke)
Luke was good company and an enthusiastic wood-cutter.
He did a great job with rennovating the cupboard where we keep the bins. It now looks beautiful.
With close supervision he also worked hard in the garden and we are still eating the spinach which he planted for us last year.
Happy Travels Luke!
He did a great job with rennovating the cupboard where we keep the bins. It now looks beautiful.
With close supervision he also worked hard in the garden and we are still eating the spinach which he planted for us last year.
Happy Travels Luke!
(Excellent
)
16 Oct 2014
Left by Workawayer (Luke) for host
I stayed here for two weeks and really enjoyed my time. Got the chance to explore the neighboring towns, eat amazing food and become best friends with a couple of ducks.
Mike and Nic are great people that you can learn a lot from and they also went out of their way to help me when I needed a dentist which I really appreciate.
Thanks so much… read more
Mike and Nic are great people that you can learn a lot from and they also went out of their way to help me when I needed a dentist which I really appreciate.
Thanks so much… read more
27 Jul 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Seoid)
Seoid was a model volunteer. I really feel like she put her wholehearted effort into her work here, and made the most of every opportunity. For example, after she was finished working she would often go on a five hour walk to explore castles forests and wild swimming opportunities "rain is the best weather for swimming!". We wish her much luck &… read more
(Excellent
)
21 Apr 2014
Left by Workawayer (Georgie & Jacqui) for host
What a great experience! Nicola & Mike made us feel at home immediately. We mostly worked inside, doing domestic jobs. We had a weekly list to follow, so we always knew what had to be done, but could also take initiative and work on something else if we wanted. Cooking was fun and we have taken away lots of new recipes to introduce to friends &… read more
18 Apr 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Georgie & Jacqui)
We're really grateful for Georgie & Jacqui's help and good cheer.
They really got on with things, meaning that we made loads of progress with our renovation while they kept things ship shape on the domestic front.
It's the first time in a year we've hosted volunteers and it was a very pleasant experience all round. They are both well motivated… read more
They really got on with things, meaning that we made loads of progress with our renovation while they kept things ship shape on the domestic front.
It's the first time in a year we've hosted volunteers and it was a very pleasant experience all round. They are both well motivated… read more
(Excellent
)
24 Mar 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (John)
John was a willing volunteer who helped us in many ways.
We were very grateful for his help & would recommend him wholeheartedly to other hosts. John is reliable and intelligent and very easy to work with.
Many thanks for your visit John, maybe we'll see you again next time you're in Europe?
We were very grateful for his help & would recommend him wholeheartedly to other hosts. John is reliable and intelligent and very easy to work with.
Many thanks for your visit John, maybe we'll see you again next time you're in Europe?
(Excellent
)
6 Oct 2013
Left by Workawayer (Ricardo & Margarida) for host
A year as passed since my visit to Mike and Nic's farm.
They were my first workaway experience and learned a lot from them. They are welcoming, easygoing and great cookers. The food was simply delicious! All in all it was a great experience but what i was most amazed with was how serious they were about sustainability.
I was glad to help… read more
They were my first workaway experience and learned a lot from them. They are welcoming, easygoing and great cookers. The food was simply delicious! All in all it was a great experience but what i was most amazed with was how serious they were about sustainability.
I was glad to help… read more
9 Mar 2013
Left by Workawayer (Dean) for host
I had my first work away experience here and I could not have been luckier for having it here. I had a truly wonderful time, lots of laughs, lots of good times and an all round good time. Mike and Nic are both very kind and I learned a lot of new things on so many levels whilst I spent my time here.
All the best mike and Nic for all future… read more
All the best mike and Nic for all future… read more
1 Oct 2012
Left by Workawayer (Pedro Romero) for host
Nic and Mike are wonderful persons. Since my first moment in the farm they make me feel like in home. The house has an incredible atmosphere where workers away and the hosts are in a continuous contact. The work in the farm is very variety and I am sure that you can find something that you would enjoy to do. Nic is very organized and every morning… read more
22 Sep 2012
Left by host for Workawayer (Pedro Romero)
Pedro is an excellent volunteer. He was a pleasure to host. Good company; he has many entertaining stories to tell about Brazil. As well as being hard worker he frequently spotted and dealt with jobs before anyone else.
We very much enjoyed trying some Brazilian food for the first time and have continued to cook his recipes since he left.
He is… read more
We very much enjoyed trying some Brazilian food for the first time and have continued to cook his recipes since he left.
He is… read more
(Excellent
)
12 Sep 2012
Left by host for Workawayer (John_Sinead)
We would highly recommend John and Sinead as workaway visitors.
They were very entertaining company - Sinead has a wicked sense of humour.
They worked hard and also made some delicious meals - including some Irish specialities. We felt completely confident leaving them in charge of things while we were away.
We're very grateful for their help… read more
They were very entertaining company - Sinead has a wicked sense of humour.
They worked hard and also made some delicious meals - including some Irish specialities. We felt completely confident leaving them in charge of things while we were away.
We're very grateful for their help… read more
(Excellent
)
14 Jul 2012
Left by Workawayer (Collin & Michae) for host
I had a fantastic short stay at Nový Mlýn. I got to assist with some plastering and tadelakt which was an awesome learning experience. Also got to hang out with the animals and build a bike rack. The food was GREAT, wild mushroom lasagna! The area is beautiful and the forests are relaxing.
If I make it back to Czech I will definitely visit Nový… read more
If I make it back to Czech I will definitely visit Nový… read more
9 Jul 2012
Left by host for Workawayer (Collin & Michae)
We really enjoyed Collin's short visit and wish he could have stayed longer. Collin was easy to work with and knew how to just get on with things.
While with us we made natural plaster and applied a tadelakt finish to the downstairs shower room. He also built a bike rack for our recently repaired bikes. All in all, an extremely productive week!
While with us we made natural plaster and applied a tadelakt finish to the downstairs shower room. He also built a bike rack for our recently repaired bikes. All in all, an extremely productive week!
(Excellent
)
20 Jun 2012
Left by host for Workawayer (Grace)
Grace and Elizabeth were a joy to host. We were so glad of their company - they were hugely entertaining, as well as hard workers. We hope they have time to call in here again soon.
(Excellent
)
19 Jun 2012
Left by host for Workawayer ()
Over the last three years we've hosted many workawayers. Working together, sharing meals and living in the same space you quickly get an idea of what people are like.
You could draw a venn diagram of the perfect workaway guest - it would include being good company, having a cheerful attitude to work, intelligence and use of initiative. You can… read more
You could draw a venn diagram of the perfect workaway guest - it would include being good company, having a cheerful attitude to work, intelligence and use of initiative. You can… read more
(Excellent
)
28 Feb 2012
Left by Workawayer (tanza89) for host
We spent 2 and a half months here, we enjoyed our stay so much. Nic and Mike are great hosts. they like to be organised with plenty of work to do. In your free time you can explore the beautiful forests and take their friendly dog Bunburry. She's a smart dog that can do many tricks and loves to be walked. Nick and Mike took us into town to the… read more
28 Oct 2011
Left by host for Workawayer (Rhiannon)
Gentle Rhiannon worked hard here. She is a great smasher of apples and introduced us to some great vegan recipes.
Rhiannon was really good with the animals and was nice company. A sensitive soul, she was also very brave when faced with a really bad situation. I'm grateful for how well she handled things here.
We hope to see her again soon,… read more
Rhiannon was really good with the animals and was nice company. A sensitive soul, she was also very brave when faced with a really bad situation. I'm grateful for how well she handled things here.
We hope to see her again soon,… read more
(Excellent
)
28 Oct 2011
Left by Workawayer (Rhiannon) for host
I had an amazing 2 weeks here! The beautiful landscape, the permaculture garden, all the animals and especially the wonderful company! You wouldn't believe the amount of apples we got to harvest; we made juice, cider, preserves, cakes - you name it, it contained apple! There were some interesting combinations for sure; you have to try the apple… read more
28 Oct 2011
Left by host for Workawayer (putanameforit)
Anika was entertaining company and a very hard worker. She was obviously well able and accustomed to working without supervision, and also suggested jobs which she was able to do - which is always useful when you are managing a new team of unknown ability.
We really hope she can come back here soon. She is very welcome any time.
We really hope she can come back here soon. She is very welcome any time.
(Excellent
)
20 Oct 2011
Left by Workawayer (putanameforit) for host
heaven on earth!!! absolutely lovely: nic&mike&bunberry and all the others, the place, the sky at night, the smell in the house full of basil and rasberry... i love this place, it is really inspiring. please visit them :)
1 Sep 2011
Left by host for Workawayer (James & Clare)
James and Clare stayed with us during their cycling trip around Europe. They were here for just a couple of weeks but we wished that they had longer with us and they have an open invitation to come back here any time.
James has a background in building - with a particular interest in sustainable options. We asked him to look at the walls of a… read more
James has a background in building - with a particular interest in sustainable options. We asked him to look at the walls of a… read more
(Excellent
)
1 Sep 2011
Left by Workawayer (Eli & Casey) for host
We have only been away a few days and already have felt the pangs of nostalgia. Incredibly useful skills, continuous conversations, and delicious meals shared - these will all stay with us for a long time. We can only hope to have made an equal sized dent in the maker heart of this place and it's wonderful people. Can't wait to follow along as it… read more
21 Aug 2011
Left by host for Workawayer (Zoe & Todd)
Zoe fitted in really well at the project. She was a pleasure to spend time with & we really appreciated her gentle energy.
I hope we'll meet again!
I hope we'll meet again!
(Excellent
)
24 Jun 2010
Left by Workawayer (Zoe & Todd) for host
Thank you both for all your generosity! Enjoyed learning about wild foods and experimenting with new recipies and ideas...really appreciated the efforts made to open me up to genuinely czech experiences also- the food, pubs, language, quirks, a fascinating place indeed. Your focus and motivation is inspiring, your hearts and minds are open and… read more
21 Aug 2011
Left by host for Workawayer (Eva)
Eva was a really interesting workawayer to host - I enjoyed her company immensely and her quirky sense of humour. Eva's work as an illustrator is really impressive - luckily she carries a portfolio with her which she's happy to show and tell. If you happen to be in need of any illustration work, you should really try to host Eva.
As well as more… read more
As well as more… read more
(Excellent
)
2 Jun 2011
Left by Workawayer (Eva) for host
I spent an amazing four weeks here with Nic and Mike, and a happy bunch of other volunteers. There was always a lot to do, inside the house, in the garden and with the animals, and I learnt a few good tricks! Especially I learnt about deliciously edible wild plants and I'm now passing the knowledge around. Nic and Mike made proficient use of my… read more
21 Aug 2011
Left by host for Workawayer (Roy & Catherine)
Roy and Catherine worked incredibly hard when they were here - all that wood chopped! We now have a good supply of fuel for our usually harsh winter.
Catherine is particularly talented at arranging things to look beautiful. If you are looking for a workawayer to transform you B&B into a boutique hotel I can thoroughly recommend her. Catherine also… read more
Catherine is particularly talented at arranging things to look beautiful. If you are looking for a workawayer to transform you B&B into a boutique hotel I can thoroughly recommend her. Catherine also… read more
(Excellent
)
13 Aug 2011
Left by Workawayer (Roy & Catherine) for host
We really enjoyed our month-long stay with Nic, Mike, and the other workawayers. The land is amazingly beautiful, and the (mostly outdoors) work--though demanding at times--never left us without energy to explore the forest and collect wild edibles and bones. We chopped wood, decorated bathrooms, painted a garden planning mural, gardened, built a… read more
21 Aug 2011
Left by host for Workawayer (Lindsey )
It was a pleasure to host Lindsey this summer. We really appreciate her calm nature and ability to react diplomatically with even the most trying volunteer.
Due to her very relevant experience through her volunteer, paid work and choice of subjects at university, Lindsey came with a bounty of useful experience and ideas. One thing which I would… read more
Due to her very relevant experience through her volunteer, paid work and choice of subjects at university, Lindsey came with a bounty of useful experience and ideas. One thing which I would… read more
(Excellent
)
21 Aug 2011
Left by host for Workawayer (Sam & Phil)
Sam and Phil stayed with us early on in the season. They worked really hard - and were happy to help with a wide range of projects - notably moving the reed bed water filtration system, as well as preparing the spiral veggie and herb beds - which are now full of delicious vegetables - including the carrots and onions which they planted.
Phil… read more
Phil… read more
(Excellent
)
15 May 2011
Left by Workawayer (Sam & Phil) for host
We were initially going to stay with Nic and Mike for 4 weeks, but nearly doubled the length of our stay as there was so much to learn from them!
Every day our work was different, and never too difficult. During our time here we planted willow for coppicing, damp proofed the utility room, learned how to make and use plaster from natural… read more
Every day our work was different, and never too difficult. During our time here we planted willow for coppicing, damp proofed the utility room, learned how to make and use plaster from natural… read more
24 Feb 2011
Left by Workawayer (Joshua) for host
I hesitate to use the word magical, but Nic and Mike have truly found such a place. My September there was filled with apple-pressing, picking and drying mushrooms to my heart's content, walking the lovable Bunbury (their dog) through the gorgeous Czech woods, and great conversation with my wonderful hosts. Miss you guys! Here's hoping our… read more
4 Jan 2011
Left by host for Workawayer (Joshua)
We miss Joshua!!!
We can highly recommend him as a workawayer. He did great things while here - including making a start on the natural plaster we are using in the kitchen and on the chimneys.
The bread he baked was amazing and we continue to care for the wild yeast he left us with to continue the sourdough bread making.
Many thanks!!!
We can highly recommend him as a workawayer. He did great things while here - including making a start on the natural plaster we are using in the kitchen and on the chimneys.
The bread he baked was amazing and we continue to care for the wild yeast he left us with to continue the sourdough bread making.
Many thanks!!!
(Excellent
)
4 Jan 2011
Left by host for Workawayer (Chris & Katie)
We had a great time hosting you! Many thanks for all your help.
Chris and Katie are both practical and intelligent and we thoroughly recommend them to other workaway hosts.
Chris and Katie are both practical and intelligent and we thoroughly recommend them to other workaway hosts.
(Excellent
)
24 Sep 2010
Left by Workawayer (Rebecca) for host
This was the first workaway experience I've had, and will probably be the most memorable. Nicola and Mike are amazing hosts, and have very comfortable accomodations. The workday seemed to revolve around cooking, baking, and eating tasty food, so if this is something that you like, this is the place for you. You will never go hungry on this farm!… read more
7 Jun 2010
Left by Workawayer (Jessica) for host
Nic and Mike are truly wonderful hosts - kind, very generous, encouraging and fun to be with. It felt like one big family while I was there - sharing cooking (great food!) and looking after the lovely dog and cats, working together in the house and on the land, as well as evenings out and weekends away together. They are hugely inspiring just… read more
6 Jun 2010
Left by host for Workawayer (Jessica)
Jessica was my partner in crime for the week she spent with us - together we foraged for all sorts of interesting foods - not only stinging nettle - which featured heavily in our repertoire of very, very local food, we also experimented with Dandelion root coffee and Ground Elder in a variety of forms.
I can recommend her as a workawayer without… read more
I can recommend her as a workawayer without… read more
(Excellent
)
6 Jun 2010
Left by host for Workawayer (Joe)
Joe & Kim were a pleasure to host. We had lots of nice meals together and they worked hard to create a living roof for us on the hen house. This involved waterproofing the roof, constructing and fixing a frame and gathering the gravel and sedum plants to fill it. It looks very fine!
Though with us only for a short time, we were really grateful for… read more
Though with us only for a short time, we were really grateful for… read more
(Excellent
)
23 May 2010
Left by Workawayer (Jenna Smith and) for host
First of all, a huge thank you to Nic and Mike for hosting us. We had nothing short of an awesome experience with them, despite snowy weather and frozen pipes! They are truly fantastic hosts and the projects going on will inspire and interest anyone. While we didn't get to leave as much of an impact as we were hoping (mostly due to the constant… read more
18 May 2010
Left by host for Workawayer (Jenna Smith and)
Goodness, Jenna and Dylan are hardy souls!
When they arrived with us, we were at the end of a particularly harsh winter - and were coping with the major problem of the drainage system being frozen solid, as well as a new puppy and indoor temperatures down to about freezing. We do hope that this never happens again and that they come back when the… read more
When they arrived with us, we were at the end of a particularly harsh winter - and were coping with the major problem of the drainage system being frozen solid, as well as a new puppy and indoor temperatures down to about freezing. We do hope that this never happens again and that they come back when the… read more
(Excellent
)
18 May 2010
Left by host for Workawayer (Jaakko)
Our project benefited greatly from Jaakko's experience as a joiner. We now have a fantastic hen house, for which we are incredibly grateful., as well as a much better compost container. Under the direction of Joann, he also constructed the frames for the raised beds in the garden, and joined in with shifting wheelbarrow loads of rubble.
After… read more
After… read more
(Excellent
)
18 May 2010
Left by host for Workawayer (Joann )
If you are offered the chance to host Joann you should accept it quickly! I have a feeling that she will be very much in demand as her career as a herbalist and permaculture gardener develops.
Not only was she good company, interesting and songful, she also provided us with an excellent plan for our garden, including a planting schedule for us to… read more
Not only was she good company, interesting and songful, she also provided us with an excellent plan for our garden, including a planting schedule for us to… read more
(Excellent
)
18 May 2010
Left by host for Workawayer (Claire )
Claire was great company, and knew some really good recipes! She was quickly able to pick up skills such as working in a mosaic with Emily, and was a great help during her time with us.
We hope to see her again soon.
We hope to see her again soon.
(Excellent
)
18 May 2010
Left by host for Workawayer (Carl-Henrik)
We had a great time with Henrik and the other workawayers who made up such a well-humoured team in the Autumn/Winter 2009 - it was a real pleasure to host Henrik. He worked very hard and was good company. We hope he'll call in on the project again in the future.
(Excellent
)
18 May 2010
Left by host for Workawayer (Em)
Emily arrived at the project just in time for a cold snap, which heralded the start of a particularly long and hard winter. We spent a lot of time finding ways to insulate the house against the coming cold - such as by putting up extra layers of curtain on the windows and sewing together quilts to make thicker blankets. Emily also built a lovely… read more
(Excellent
)
18 May 2010
Left by host for Workawayer (Workaway member)
James came to our project while while we were away, so we only spent a very short time with him. While he was here, visitors restored a lovely shelving unit, planted willow and cut a lot of wood. They also had a fantastic Thanksgiving - by all accounts - organised by James.
It's a shame he wasn't with us longer!
It's a shame he wasn't with us longer!
(Very good
)
18 May 2010
Left by host for Workawayer (Noel)
Noel is from a rural background and has a qualification in gardening - his knowledge of permaculture helped us make decisions about how to plan the garden. In particular, he wrote a great blog post for our site and inspired me to read 'one straw revolution' and start experimenting with no dig planting methods.
Of course, he worked hard, but also… read more
Of course, he worked hard, but also… read more
(Excellent
)
24 Feb 2010
Left by host for Workawayer (Richard & Katie)
Thanks for visiting us. We had a great time with you and hope you continue to have grand adventures during your travels. I can wholeheartedly recommend you to other hosts.
(Excellent
)
11 Dec 2009
Left by Workawayer (Richard & Katie) for host
Thank you Nic and Mike for the most amazing experience, the best hosts we could have hoped for. Missing you guys and the cats! Will definitely try to come back and visit to dig up the new poo hole. Anyone given the opportunity to come here should snap it up! Lots of love Katie and Rich. xoxoxox
24 Oct 2009
Left by Workawayer (Sian) for host
I had a great time at Novymlyn! the hosts nic and mike were a lot of fun, easy to get along with and very accomadating. I learnt new skills, czech history and culture. it was a great experience!
5 Oct 2009
Left by host for Workawayer (Sian)
Sian worked incredibly hard and was great company. She is welcome back here any time and we hope she'll be able to come and see how we're getting on in the future.
(Excellent
)
9 Oct 2009
Left by Workawayer (Esther) for host
we love you both so much! we had the most wonderful time during our stay with you and you were so incredibly generous and welcoming and fun, thank you for everything we will send cheddar cheese to you as soon as we can now we know how precious it is! good luck and we will be back with friends x x x x x x x x
7 Oct 2009
Left by host for Workawayer (Esther)
Esther and Rosie brought with them bundles of creativity, enthusiasm and knowledge of eco technology (from their experience working at CAT in Wales). I was able to leave them to get on with a range of different activities - from restoring furniture to making a spaceman costume for Mike's surprise Alien birthday party. I hope that they will visit… read more
(Excellent
)
7 Oct 2009
Left by host for Workawayer (Caroline)
It was a pleasure hosting Caroline this autumn. I am really grateful for her help with organising all sorts of things... such as the tool room and the kitchen. Caroline was willing to try all sorts of different types of work and it was lovely spending time with her on the porch in the evenings. We hope that she will come back and see how we're… read more
(Excellent
)
7 Oct 2009
Left by host for Workawayer (Rachel)
Rachel was a great guest. She shared some lovely recipes with us and was very capable generally. We had many nice evenings playing Bananas - a word game which she brought with her. I hope that she will be able to visit us again in the future - I'm sure she'll see a lot of progress!
(Excellent
)
