Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
8 Apr 2025
Reply rate
93.8 %
Usually responds within 3 days
Feedback
72
Email verified
Badges (3)
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Details
Description
We are an English family who moved to Spain 17 years ago with our two young children (who have moved on into their working lives). Twelve years ago we bought our "finca", which many years ago had been a small vineyard. It has 3 hectares of land and various older buildings, though it had been neglected for some years. Our wish was to restore the buildings and to nurture the land with care and attention. We were attracted to the finca because of the opportunity to beautify and work the land and to have a place to share with friends, family and others wanting to spend time in this beautiful area.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Creating/ Cooking family meals
General Maintenance
House sitting
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
As a volunteer we want you to feel drawn to, and excited about, any project you do, and to have fun doing it with love.
Help
We are looking for people who would love to come and participate in beautifying, nurturing and caring for the land and buildings. This includes planting trees and shrubs, chopping wood, clearing hedges, digging, weeding. planting and caring for the allotment, picking produce, etc. Also we have been slowly renovating and improving the buildings which had been neglected for some time before we moved here. We need more help with this. It is now not any major building work, more maintenance and repainting.
Our key focus is to enhance the beauty of the land and buildings and to care for them in a sensitive and sustainable way. Much of what we do is about allowing ideas to evolve and expressing our creativity.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Spanish: Intermediate
Accommodation
You would be staying in the casita, a small two bedroom cottage with bathroom, kitchen and sitting room, and internet. We live in a separate house next to it. There is an outdoor swimming pool that is shared with all of us and you are welcome to use it at your own risk. There are also tents if you want to camp on the land occasionally, or even hammocks under the trees.
What else ...
We are three minutes walk from the village of Estacion de Jimena where there are shops, bars, bank. We are about 20 minutes walk to Jimena de la Frontera which is an historic white village on a hill with a castle. This has numerous bars, shops and amenities.
We are also only five minutes walk from the railway station. Going south trains stop at the port of Algeciras. Going north you can get to Ronda in one hour, and Granada in four hours. From Algeciras you can take buses to either the Mediterranean or the Atlantic coasts (eg Tarifa town, the mecca of kite surfing).
Surrounding us is one of the biggest cork oak forests in the world in the National Park called Los Alcornocales with a lovely river called the Hozgarganta. Both within walking distance. There are plenty of walks to be explored and a good river to swim in. We are also on the flight path for migrating birds.
The nearest airport to here is Gibraltar, followed by Malaga.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
This host has indicated that they love having digital nomads stay.
Space for parking camper vans
We have a small concrete hardstand where regular size campervans can park up (larger campervans do not fit).
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
Host ref number: 882921373627
Feedback (34)
27 Mar 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Ina & Citlally)
Citlally and Ina were a delight to have working for us. Their enthusiasm in everything they did was wonderful to see.
For example.... Removing a huge amount of Bamboo roots... over a period of 3 days. Not an easy job!
Clearing a climbing weed called sarsaparilla that covers hedges and attempting to remove their roots. Working hard on this for 5… read more
For example.... Removing a huge amount of Bamboo roots... over a period of 3 days. Not an easy job!
Clearing a climbing weed called sarsaparilla that covers hedges and attempting to remove their roots. Working hard on this for 5… read more
(Excellent
)
7 Jan 2024
Left by Workawayer (Maja & Andrzej) for host
We spent three amazing weeks with Fran and Derek in November! They are very open and happy people who have beautiful garden and house. Our tasks were very clear and concrete. Everyday we started work at 9 with coffe break at 11.30. Then we finished before dinner at 2.30. We cut trees, bushes, grass, dug plants out, weed and other simple things in… read more
10 Dec 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Maja & Andrzej)
Maja and Andrzej were with us for 3 weeks working on our 3 hectares of land. They were hardworking enthusiastic and willing to do anything to help. This included sawing branches off trees to create light, pruning and cutting very large hedges around the land, clearing old fences, removing old bamboo, strimming, clearing around cacti and preparing… read more
(Excellent
)
2 Jun 2023
Left by Workawayer (Mathilde) for host
It was an incredible experience. Fran and Derek were very welcoming hosts. We only stayed for 2 weeks and were sad that we didn't stay longer. The food was very very good and the house was wonderful with a magnificent view of the village. We mainly weeded the land, cut almonds, took care of various tasks like making a bamboo fence. The hours were… read more
1 Jun 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Mathilde)
Rebecca and Mathilde
They worked with us for 2 weeks. Really enjoyed having them both here helping us on the land. They are enthusiastic, willing, thorough, hard working and easy to get along with. Any task we gave them they put their all into it. Clearing sasparilla a horrendous prickly climber they even managed to find enjoyable! Other tasks… read more
They worked with us for 2 weeks. Really enjoyed having them both here helping us on the land. They are enthusiastic, willing, thorough, hard working and easy to get along with. Any task we gave them they put their all into it. Clearing sasparilla a horrendous prickly climber they even managed to find enjoyable! Other tasks… read more
(Excellent
)
Photos
Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(5.0)
Cultural exchange:
(4.8)
Communication:
(5.0)
27 Mar 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Ina & Citlally)
Citlally and Ina were a delight to have working for us. Their enthusiasm in everything they did was wonderful to see.
For example.... Removing a huge amount of Bamboo roots... over a period of 3 days. Not an easy job!
Clearing a climbing weed called sarsaparilla that covers hedges and attempting to remove their roots. Working hard on this for 5… read more
For example.... Removing a huge amount of Bamboo roots... over a period of 3 days. Not an easy job!
Clearing a climbing weed called sarsaparilla that covers hedges and attempting to remove their roots. Working hard on this for 5… read more
(Excellent)
7 Jan 2024
Left by Workawayer (Maja & Andrzej) for host
We spent three amazing weeks with Fran and Derek in November! They are very open and happy people who have beautiful garden and house. Our tasks were very clear and concrete. Everyday we started work at 9 with coffe break at 11.30. Then we finished before dinner at 2.30. We cut trees, bushes, grass, dug plants out, weed and other simple things in… read more
10 Dec 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Maja & Andrzej)
Maja and Andrzej were with us for 3 weeks working on our 3 hectares of land. They were hardworking enthusiastic and willing to do anything to help. This included sawing branches off trees to create light, pruning and cutting very large hedges around the land, clearing old fences, removing old bamboo, strimming, clearing around cacti and preparing… read more
(Excellent)
2 Jun 2023
Left by Workawayer (Mathilde) for host
It was an incredible experience. Fran and Derek were very welcoming hosts. We only stayed for 2 weeks and were sad that we didn't stay longer. The food was very very good and the house was wonderful with a magnificent view of the village. We mainly weeded the land, cut almonds, took care of various tasks like making a bamboo fence. The hours were… read more
1 Jun 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Mathilde)
Rebecca and Mathilde
They worked with us for 2 weeks. Really enjoyed having them both here helping us on the land. They are enthusiastic, willing, thorough, hard working and easy to get along with. Any task we gave them they put their all into it. Clearing sasparilla a horrendous prickly climber they even managed to find enjoyable! Other tasks… read more
They worked with us for 2 weeks. Really enjoyed having them both here helping us on the land. They are enthusiastic, willing, thorough, hard working and easy to get along with. Any task we gave them they put their all into it. Clearing sasparilla a horrendous prickly climber they even managed to find enjoyable! Other tasks… read more
(Excellent)
23 May 2023
Left by Workawayer (Saliba) for host
I really enjoyed this workaway it was such an amazing experience. I went with my friend and we did learn quite a bit about everything. From history with Dereck to facts about gardening with France, the couple was very insightful and nice to be around. It was very enjoyable tasks we were given such as weeding while enjoying the beautiful weather,… read more
23 May 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Saliba)
Rebecca and Mathilde
They worked with us for 2 weeks. Really enjoyed having them both here helping us on the land. They are enthusiastic, willing, thorough, hard working and easy to get along with. Any task we gave them they put their all into it. Clearing sasparilla a horrendous prickly climber they even managed to find enjoyable! Other tasks… read more
They worked with us for 2 weeks. Really enjoyed having them both here helping us on the land. They are enthusiastic, willing, thorough, hard working and easy to get along with. Any task we gave them they put their all into it. Clearing sasparilla a horrendous prickly climber they even managed to find enjoyable! Other tasks… read more
(Excellent)
16 Mar 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Catriona & Charlie)
Catriona and Charley are hard workers', trustworthy, willing and well able to take initiative. Very easy to have around.
Catriona is a qualified Gardener so could prune trees e.g. Olives, Carob, and Quince.
They stripped and repainted a number of metal gates. Also prepared our allotment for planting, weeding and creating a support for climbing… read more
Catriona is a qualified Gardener so could prune trees e.g. Olives, Carob, and Quince.
They stripped and repainted a number of metal gates. Also prepared our allotment for planting, weeding and creating a support for climbing… read more
(Excellent)
8 Mar 2023
Left by Workawayer (Catriona & Charlie) for host
Fran and Derek could not have been kinder hosts. We had a wonderful three weeks with them at their beautiful home. We enjoyed working the land, pruning the trees, preparing the veggie garden and even painting the garden gates in the garage listening to music when it was raining.
After work each day we enjoyed chatting to Fran and Derek over the… read more
After work each day we enjoyed chatting to Fran and Derek over the… read more
21 Mar 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Nicolle & Domi)
Domi and Nicolle are wonderful workaways to have. They are very willing, hardworking, focused, responsible and good company to have around. They cleared a lot of bamboo, pruning trees and hedges, digging allotment, weeding, moving rubble, painting and more. Domi worked with great determination to sand and prepare for painting some metal railings… read more
(Excellent)
19 Mar 2022
Left by Workawayer (Nicolle & Domi) for host
Our stay with Derek and Fran was really perfect. The casita were we live was very comfortable and warm at the still chilly nights. The work pleasant, variabele and not too hard. But above all it is Derek and Fran who deserve more than 5 stars. They are very generous and caring and do everything to make our stay as pleasant as it was. We also did… read more
27 Dec 2021
Left by Workawayer (Luca & Rebecca) for host
Fran and Derek were the most wonderful hosts we could have wished for. We found them mid way through our trip around Spain and spent the remainder of our time with them in their slice of paradise. Not only is their place - the land, the trees, the Casita (for workawayers to stay in) - absolutley gorgeous and very homely, they are welcoming,… read more
18 Dec 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Luca & Rebecca)
What a delight to have Becca and Luca to help us on our Finca.
They are enthusiastic, willing, hard working, show great determination to complete tasks and always do a brilliant job.
They completed a path around the perimeter of our land (almost 3 hectares). They repaired a fence made of Bamboo .. using wattling as the method. They spent hours… read more
They are enthusiastic, willing, hard working, show great determination to complete tasks and always do a brilliant job.
They completed a path around the perimeter of our land (almost 3 hectares). They repaired a fence made of Bamboo .. using wattling as the method. They spent hours… read more
(Excellent)
11 Jul 2021
Left by Workawayer (marandmar) for host
It was an absolute pleasure staying with Fran and Derek. The place far exceeded our expectations and is definitely the best place we have stayed. Fran goes out of her way to make you feel very welcome, providing extra food and amenities. We both agree that this was by far our best workaway experience up to now. We were given the responsibility of… read more
10 Jul 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (marandmar)
Mark and Luz are willing helpers, thoughtful, intuitive, friendly and hard working. They ask questions if not sure and always finish tasks that they started. Due to the heat they offered to work from 7.30 am., working mostly on the land - strimming, weeding, pruning with hedge cutter, clearing undergrowth and cutting up wood.
They looked after our… read more
They looked after our… read more
(Very good)
19 Nov 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Adam)
Adam is a superb workaway . He is very hardworking, willing to have a go at anything and when he does the job he does it thoroughly and with great care and to a high standard. If Adam wasn't sure about the task he would always ask. Well able to think for himself and take initiative. Never cutting corners and completely trust worthy.
Adam is a… read more
Adam is a… read more
(Excellent)
18 Nov 2020
Left by Workawayer (Adam) for host
My first workaway experience with Fran and Derek was amazing. I ended up staying for 6 weeks and became part of the family. They are a welcoming, friendly, knowledgeable and calming couple and along with their daughter Rosie (who was there for 2 weeks) a fun and relaxed place to be. We had plenty of laughs and good conversations at coffee and… read more
17 Oct 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (cdinopou)
Con was an absolute pleasure to have around and to work with. He became very much a part of our family. He is hardworking, very willing to do any project, conscientious and puts his all into every task he takes on.. All done very well and with great care. He has a great sense of humour.
We were very sad to see him leave as he had to cut his time… read more
We were very sad to see him leave as he had to cut his time… read more
(Excellent)
17 Mar 2020
Left by Workawayer (cdinopou) for host
It has been my absolute pleasure to meet Fran and Derek and their daughter Rosie. From day 1, it was evident that this family was both supportive and caring for someone in my situation. My accommodation in the two-bedroom casita was fantastic and Fran’s cooking was something to look forward to every working day. The mid-morning coffee breaks were… read more
17 Feb 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Rosalie & Peter)
Rosa and Pete are an easy and friendly couple to have around. They are very willing workers, always ready to try something new and to learn from that task. For example preparing and painting 2 metal gates which they did with a lot of care. They also repaired and repainted a bedroom.
We as hosts had to be away some days. During theses periods they… read more
We as hosts had to be away some days. During theses periods they… read more
(Very good)
8 Feb 2020
Left by Workawayer (Rosalie & Peter) for host
We had such an amazing time with Fran and Derek, they are an incredible couple!
The work was nice, (from 9h to 2h30 with 30 min coffee break) we plastered and painted a room in the casita, painted the pool gate and did various jobs outside in the sun, such as pruning and weeding.
Fran made delicious vegetarian meals for lunch and we had plenty… read more
The work was nice, (from 9h to 2h30 with 30 min coffee break) we plastered and painted a room in the casita, painted the pool gate and did various jobs outside in the sun, such as pruning and weeding.
Fran made delicious vegetarian meals for lunch and we had plenty… read more
6 Jan 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Edwin & Jessy)
Jessie and Edwin have been a delight to have here with us.
They are enthusiastic, hardworking, take initiative and are very committed to any task they take on. In fact they do way more than expected. They are very responsible and we had no hesitation to leave them for 8 days while we had to return to the UK. Roxie our dog was very happy with… read more
They are enthusiastic, hardworking, take initiative and are very committed to any task they take on. In fact they do way more than expected. They are very responsible and we had no hesitation to leave them for 8 days while we had to return to the UK. Roxie our dog was very happy with… read more
(Excellent)
15 Apr 2019
Left by Workawayer (Scott) for host
My stay here was great, enjoyable work, lovely accommodation and it was in a beautiful part of the world. I could not have wished for a better first workaway experience! Thanks Fran and Derek.
7 Apr 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Scott)
Scott is an easy person to have around. He is very positive cheerful, focused and good company. He works hard and is willing to have a go at anything with plenty of enthusiasm. He was only able to stay for a short period but a lot was achieved in the time.
Many thanks Scott for your help. You are always welcome. Fran and Derek
Many thanks Scott for your help. You are always welcome. Fran and Derek
(Excellent)
14 Mar 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Jen)
Jen is very friendly and enthusiastic and willing to have a go at anything. She was only here for a few days as she was on her way to another host. It the time she was here she carried out some gardening tasks and was very happy to learn and showed interest in why things are done. Questioning and very interested to find out more. She is very… read more
(Very good)
14 Mar 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Jennie)
Jennie is a wonderful person to have as a workaway. She fitted into our lives immediately and we thoroughly enjoyed having her on out team and being part of our family. She is full of enthusiasm, positivity and very willing to have a go at anything. She is hardworking, focused and takes initative when appropriate. If she is not sure about… read more
(Excellent)
13 Mar 2019
Left by Workawayer (Jennie) for host
I just got back from my week in Jimena, and I couldn't be happier with my first ever Workaway experience! First of all, Fran and Derek are wonderful hosts. Fran cooks a truly delicious lunch every day, and she and Derek are such great conversationalists that the coffee break at 11:30 and lunch at 2:30 were engaging and entertaining. Secondly, the… read more
25 Feb 2019
Left by Workawayer (Simone & Lisa) for host
we had an incredible experience here! we really learned a lot about the area we visited and the tasks we had to do! Fran and Derek are so lovely! the casita too, is fully furnished, we have the chance to visit gibraltar and explore the area around jimena, all the people we meet there are so friendly and the atmosphere is magic. We hope to come… read more
25 Feb 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Simone & Lisa)
Simone and Lisa worked well together and independently. They are hard working and very willing to have a go at anything and do the tasks they are given with enthusiasm. They prepared and painted a very tall and large sitting room in our casita, They prepared and painted a large entrance gate as well as doing a lot of tasks on the land strimming… read more
(Very good)
16 Feb 2019
Left by Workawayer (Anna & Thomas) for host
We are so so sorry this feedback is so late! We had such an amazing stay with Fran and Derek, we couldn't have asked for more - everything was just perfect. They were such great hosts, we felt really part of the family and very comfortable straight away. The work we did was a lot of fun and we learnt a great deal - we were working in the garden… read more
14 Dec 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Anna & Thomas)
Anna and Tom are a delight to have around. They are enthusiastic and are very willing workers. Always open to learning about something new and giving it their all. They work well together. Very quickly they became a part of our family . Very happy to recommend them and we wish they could have stayed longer.
Thank you to you both once again.
Thank you to you both once again.
(Excellent)
14 Feb 2019
Left by Workawayer (Agustín ) for host
Fran and Derek are awsome people!! I stayed for a month in their beautifull finca with my dog Vito and we had a great time. There is a lot of different things to work on and Fran let me decide what proyects I wanted to do. The accomodation is reaaaaaally nice and Fran makes the best meals in launch time!! Hope you guys the best!!! I already miss… read more
14 Feb 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Agustín )
Agustin is a friendly, very helpful and lovely person to have around. He works hard and shows great determination in finishing projects. For example.... He constructed a 40 metre bamboo fence within a week. He is willing to learn and to have a go at any task and likes to do a job well. Painting, Sawing up logs, Clearing hedges, Strimming,are a few… read more
(Excellent)
15 Aug 2018
Left by Workawayer (Roni & Alfred) for host
Our stay at Fran and Dereks finca was beyond words. Everything we could wish for our first workaway experience. Fran is an amazing cook and with derek we had the best conversations at coffee breaks during the hot days. Working wasnt hard, expect for the really hot days but there was a pool in fincas backyard wich we could dip into. Much love for… read more
12 Aug 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Roni & Alfred)
Roni and Alfred are easy to have around. very friendly and willing to help in all areas.
Alfred is a very hard worker and is very focused in any task he takes on. he does it with much care and precision. For example we have metal bars on all our windows. He stripped all the paint off with an electrical tool initiated by him, sanded it and painted… read more
Alfred is a very hard worker and is very focused in any task he takes on. he does it with much care and precision. For example we have metal bars on all our windows. He stripped all the paint off with an electrical tool initiated by him, sanded it and painted… read more
(Excellent)
19 Mar 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Daniela & Samuel)
Daniela and Samuel were a complete pleasure to have around and to share our space. They were always very willing to do anything to help us. They never complained about the non stop rain all the time they were here. They managed to stay enthusiastic throughout! This meant that tasks were mainly inside. They helped us to give our bedroom a complete… read more
(Excellent)
19 Mar 2018
Left by Workawayer (Daniela & Samuel) for host
Well, Fran & Derek and their lovely finca..thats so much feelings, good feelings! I spent in their casita 2 lovely weeks with my boyfriend and it was very nice experience, we will remind those times when we had coffee breaks and we talked about whatever, when Fran cooked delicious! meals for us, when we had fun when we worked together on their… read more
7 Mar 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Coreen & Daniel)
Corrine and Dan were full of enthusiasm and a willingness to do any task. They worked hard and every task was done with a real desire do it to the best and they achieved this. They made a bamboo fence, Chopped and saw wood, Leveled a path, Strimmed , Weeded, Removed loose mortar, pruning and cleared a large area of bamboo . They prepared a metal… read more
(Excellent)
5 Mar 2018
Left by Workawayer (Coreen & Daniel) for host
We had a lovely stay with Fran and Derek.
Our work days started at 9 and ended at 2:30, breaking for coffee in the middle. Tasks included clearing bamboo, building a fence, painting, weeding, sanding, burning and more. There was flexibility with the types of work we did as well as which days we worked on.
There is plenty to see in Jimena and… read more
Our work days started at 9 and ended at 2:30, breaking for coffee in the middle. Tasks included clearing bamboo, building a fence, painting, weeding, sanding, burning and more. There was flexibility with the types of work we did as well as which days we worked on.
There is plenty to see in Jimena and… read more
25 Feb 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Paulina)
Paulina is willing and enthusiastic to do any task given. She is open to learning something new and works hard to complete the task. She is a friendly and humorous person to have on your team and both Paula and her cousin work well together. All the tasks given were outside.. pruning trees and shrubs, digging and weeding, clearing bamboo and… read more
(Excellent)
15 Feb 2018
Left by Workawayer (Paulina) for host
Workaway is such a beautiful project. Julia, whose I met on my first workaway recommended me to go to Jimena . It's how we got to this beautiful place with my cousin. Fran and Derek gave us a cosy Casita to live in with the pool next to the terrace. I loved afternoons by the pool with glass of fresh orange juice. Every workday at 11 we heard bell… read more
20 Feb 2018
Left by Workawayer (Annalisa) for host
I lived my first workaway experience with them and it was perfect! i couldn't ask for more!
Fran and Derek have been kind and helpful since the first emails: they were very friendly, thoughtful, easygoing and respectful towards me and my work. I could choose daily works and they were willing to know my proposals for their plants.
The delicious… read more
Fran and Derek have been kind and helpful since the first emails: they were very friendly, thoughtful, easygoing and respectful towards me and my work. I could choose daily works and they were willing to know my proposals for their plants.
The delicious… read more
16 Feb 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Annalisa)
Annalisa is a delight to have working for you. She has a lot of knowledge about plants , trees and their diseases and is passionate about it. She pruned some of our tees with great skill and care and is able to share her knowledge clearly and openly.
She is also very willing to help with any sort of tasks you need done. A shame you couldnt stay… read more
She is also very willing to help with any sort of tasks you need done. A shame you couldnt stay… read more
(Excellent)
15 Feb 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Donata & Patryk)
Donata is full of enthusiasm and a real willingness to do any job that is needed. She works hard and with great determination to achieve and finish the task even in very windy conditions. Some of the jobs included heavy digging and preparing for planting, pruning of large bushes, trees and bamboo. And being responsible for the burning afterwards.… read more
(Excellent)
2 Feb 2018
Left by Workawayer (Donata & Patryk) for host
I highly recommend this place :) It was a wonderful time in Jimena de la Frontera. Fran and Derek are lovely, polite and really hard working people. They were taking care about me and my sister there . Even if I was so far away from my family, I could feel like home thanks to them :) I was living in typical spanish casita which was great! A huge… read more
6 Jan 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (JuliaPal23)
Julia is a lovely and easy person to have around. She is very focused, amenable, independent, works hard and has a sense of humour. She arrived at a time when an unexpected crisis had just happened in our family and therefore we were unable to give her our normal support. She was very understanding and showed huge strength and ability to manage in… read more
(Excellent)
5 Jan 2018
Left by Workawayer (JuliaPal23) for host
I had a really wonderful time with Fran and Derek. They are not only great hosts but also wonderful people. I worked mainly in the garden, which was a lot of fun, because the garden is just beautiful, a real paradise and Fran and Derek give it a lot of love and attention. Both of them are very welcoming and caring people who want to be the best… read more
30 Aug 2017
Left by Workawayer (Nuel) for host
I have stayed with Fran and Derek for almost 2 weeks in their remarkable house!
The place is well maintained and they have all the right tools and knowledge to keep it beautiful.
Fran is a very open minded person and flexible about the every day work. She taught me a lot about gardening and gave me the freedom to choose my tasks according to the… read more
The place is well maintained and they have all the right tools and knowledge to keep it beautiful.
Fran is a very open minded person and flexible about the every day work. She taught me a lot about gardening and gave me the freedom to choose my tasks according to the… read more
27 Aug 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Nuel)
Nuel is an incredible, vibrant and enthusiastic person. She has a lot of energy and a great willingness to help and to have a go at any project and do to it well. She also loves to cook and to share her food and experiences from her home country.
She was a pleasure to have as a workaway,..... Friendly, adaptable, able to take initative and wants… read more
She was a pleasure to have as a workaway,..... Friendly, adaptable, able to take initative and wants… read more
(Excellent)
14 Mar 2017
Left by Workawayer (Dana) for host
I've spent about 4 weeks at Fran and Derek's, and it was great.
They are very welcoming, easy going, open minded and make a great company.
They have big land which they care for. For them every corner is important and they treat the land and plants with a lot of attention .
The hours were 5 hours a day and included- cutting bamboo, taking care of… read more
They are very welcoming, easy going, open minded and make a great company.
They have big land which they care for. For them every corner is important and they treat the land and plants with a lot of attention .
The hours were 5 hours a day and included- cutting bamboo, taking care of… read more
7 Mar 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Dana)
Dana has a lovely nature. She works hard, is very skilled in all sorts of areas. Her attention to detail in repair work with wood or any type of renovation is incredible. She has a lot of knowledge in general gardening. She will do everything with much care and will make suggestions to do the best job. . She has lots of creative ideas and… read more
(Excellent)
15 Feb 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Samantha)
Sam and Ed were lovely people to have around, to talk to and to share our home with. They are very willing workers and will have a go at anything and do the job thoroughly and with huge care. Very able to take initiative and to suggest ideas. Some of the work involved climbing trees and pruning, hedge clearing, planting trees, Bamboo Clearing,… read more
(Excellent)
14 Feb 2017
Left by Workawayer (Samantha) for host
Thanks so much to Fran, Derek, and Rosie for welcoming us into their home and providing such an amazing workaway experience. We felt at home right from the start and really enjoyed getting to know this wonderful family. As for the work - it was great to work in the garden everyday. We found it to be very satisfying and nothing too difficult.… read more
15 Dec 2016
Left by Workawayer (Daniel) for host
Helping on a place where Derek and Fran live was next fantastic experience. Every day I can choose between various jobs outside or inside so it was the best for me... better than doing same job all the time. Accommodation was perfect in their finca which is small fully equipped single house. Best part of a day was lunchtime with Frans delicious… read more
11 Dec 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Daniel)
Daniel is an incredibly hard worker. He is very focused, plans the job well and always completes his projects. He has a great variety of skills. He has just re tiled an area in our house, built a stone wall and can use a chain saw and power tools with ease. He is totally reliable and a very willing helper to have around. Big thanks Dan
(Excellent)
5 Dec 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Matteo)
Matteo is a very friendly and likeable person. He is a very easy person to have around and became part our family very quickly. He is a willing worker and will try his hand at anything, from preparing and painting a metal gate (doing this meticulously) preparing inside walls for painting to helping out on the land (clearing hedges pruning trees… read more
(Excellent)
5 Oct 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Eva)
Eva was so willing to do any task you gave her. Preparing walls for painting, painting, clearing weeding, pruning etc on the land.She´d work in incredible heat so hugely determined to finish the task and very resilient.She became part of our family and was just a pleasure to have around. I´d recommend her completely. Thanks so much Eva
(Excellent)
18 Aug 2016
Left by Workawayer (Eva) for host
Could not have wished for a better first workaway experience! Fran, Derek, and Rosie were wonderful hosts--welcoming, kind, supportive, fun, and inclusive. I felt like part of the family by the end of the two weeks. Their piece of land is beautiful and situated right on the edge of the lovely Spanish village, Jimena. I hope to make it back in the… read more
22 Aug 2016
Left by Workawayer (Bleika) for host
Really late feedback, I’m sorry Fran and Derek, you deserve better!! I’ve had such a great time at this beautiful place with very warm and welcoming people. The way this family takes care of you, their sense of community, sharing and connecting to people is really inspirational. The work was very satisfying, I cleared some undergrowth of trees,… read more
10 Jul 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Bleika)
Barbara is 100% reliable and trustworthy and takes each task and completes it beyond expectation. All done with love and care. She is completely responsible and needs no supervision. Takes her own initiative if necessary but will always check things out with the host. She has been a delight and a joy to have around and is sorely missed. Thank you… read more
(Excellent)
7 Jun 2016
Left by Workawayer (Michal) for host
I have lucky with workaway deals. Again everything was excellent. Hosts Fran & Derek are positive, easy going, and kind people. Understanding and respect much over british standards. Especially Derek seems to be really 'well balanced' person. No problems with communication, place is beautifull. Peaceful green surroundings of Arcornocales Parque… read more
5 Jun 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Michal)
Michal is very willing, friendly and hard working. When he was here he preferred to do more physical building projects which he was very physically capable of. He was very considerate and easy to have around
(Excellent)
3 May 2016
Left by Workawayer (KEIKO) for host
I enjoyed staying there very much.
Fran & Derek made their guest feel relax.
They are very considerate and gave me what I needed then.
Their land is excellent place to wander in nature.
My tasks was to weed in sunny day and to clean in their house in rainy day.
I really appreciate their hospitality during my staying.
Keiko
Fran & Derek made their guest feel relax.
They are very considerate and gave me what I needed then.
Their land is excellent place to wander in nature.
My tasks was to weed in sunny day and to clean in their house in rainy day.
I really appreciate their hospitality during my staying.
Keiko
3 May 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (KEIKO)
Keiko has been a wonderful person to share our home with. We have had delicious experiences of japanese food cooked by her. She has weeded around our trees and bushes with such care and given our kitchen a fantastic spring clean. All happening in a very tranquille kind of way. She is very aware of what needs doing without you asking. She is very… read more
(Excellent)
11 Mar 2016
Left by Workawayer (Jose manuel) for host
Our stay there was superb. They are a lovely family. the work in the house was easy and the environment so peaceful. They have built a great place to live.Thanks for all Fran, Derek y Rosie.
8 Mar 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Jose manuel)
Jose and Ami were wonderful to have with us and share our Finca. They worked hard, were very responsible and were completely trustworthy. Also they were just very easy to have around and lovely people. We would completely recommend them to any Hosts. Thank you so much to you both.
(Excellent)
18 Dec 2015
Left by Workawayer (Norman & Mary) for host
Our 3.5 weeks simply flew by in Jimena. We had some of the best and fulfilling times of our lives there. Fran and Derek are amazing people and have a beautiful property. If you ever wondered what it would be like to live on a large piece of land in the south of Spain, look no further than their place. Fran makes amazing meals that are both… read more
17 Dec 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Norman & Mary)
Mary and Norman are delightful people. They are friendly, enthusiastic, willing and very hardworking. They are prepared to have a go at anything and are very quick to learn. They are able to get on with the work independently, take initiative and are completely trustworthy.
They are easy to have around. Good conversation and good company. Norman… read more
They are easy to have around. Good conversation and good company. Norman… read more
(Excellent)
17 Jun 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Maude & Rosemarie)
They have been a delight to have working and staying with us. They are both very hard working and very focused and prepared to try anything. We would certainly recommend them.
(Excellent)
15 Jun 2015
Left by Workawayer (Maude & Rosemarie) for host
We had an amazing week with France, Rosie and dereck! They are very Nice and welcoming :) Jimena is a very cute village with à beautiful castle. The food was sooo good and the "casita", the small house in wich we were is great. We recommand to everyone who love to discover new places to go there !
Thanks again
Maude and Rosemarie :)
Thanks again
Maude and Rosemarie :)
24 May 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Gianluca)
Luca is a very friendly and easy person to have around. He is a willing helper, is always ready to learn things and will give any tasks ago. He also cooks a great lasagne.
(Very good)
23 May 2015
Left by Workawayer (Gianluca) for host
There are no much words to describe this place, it is just amazing!! Fran and derek are 2 lovely host and now friends! Give always help if you need and respect what they write here! I had 2 weeks very beutiful, with feria and other many things!! I loved to speak with their and fran prepare very good meal!!:) are very open mind people! So what i… read more
