Join us in our haven for animal lovers in Mont-Saint-Jean, France

Details

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  Description

  We are a couple who live in a beautiful and unique homestead/smallholding, in a remote valley beside a UNESCO forest. In an area rich with fantastic hiking, climbing, and history that stretches from prehistory to medieval times. We moved here to be away from it all (it very much is!) Our home is shared with a large family of rescue animals who need daily care and attention, (i.e. they're spoiled). My husband often works overseas, and I work full-time at an animal sanctuary, so I am often here alone. We’re looking for kind, reliable people to help with basic garden and field maintenance and to spend time with the animals to ensure they’re happy and cared for during the day. If you love animals, nature, and rural life, this is a wonderful place for you

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  Types of help and learning opportunities

  Gardening

  Animal Care

  Farmstay help

  Help around the house

  General Maintenance
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  Interests

  

  Culture

  

  Farming

  

  Self development

  

  Pets

  

  Writing

  

  Plant care

  

  Performing arts

  

  History

  

  Gardening

  

  Animals

  

  Outdoor activities

  

  Nature

  

  Dancing
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  UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve

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  What's this?
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  Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

  Staying here will give Workawayers the chance to experience life in a quiet, rural part of France. My home is in the countryside, surrounded by forest, so it’s a good place for people who enjoy peace, space, and hiking in nature.
  Although I live alone and keep to myself most of the time, I’m happy to share meals and have a chat about English culture, day-to-day life, and working on the land. Workawayers will mostly have independence here, so it suits someone who is comfortable with their own company (hence why I'm happy to have couples or duos!) and enjoys time outdoors.
  In terms of cultural exchange, I think the experience is more about immersion in the French countryside rather than structured activities.. you’ll see what everyday life is like in a rural area, and in return I’m always curious to hear about your own background, experiences, and ideas.
  
  The main local activity is really the forest itself, which is great for hiking and exploring. The nearest towns and markets are reachable if you have your own car and there is a beautiful beach and lake nearby, but otherwise this is a quiet, off-the-beaten-track sort of place, ideal for someone wanting to disconnect a bit.
  I can’t provide lots of teaching or tours, but I can offer simple living, fresh air, and a genuine exchange: you help me with tasks around my home, and you’ll have accommodation in a peaceful setting.

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  Projects involving children

  This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.

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  Help

  Animal lovers a must! Experience with larger animals such as horses or donkeys is a bonus, but not essential - what matters most is that you’re confident and not timid around animals. Our family includes a horse, donkeys, goats, sheep, geese, a turkey, dogs, and cats. Your hands will probably get dirty, as some light land and stable work may be needed (just things like moving branches, mucking out, raking leaves, or pulling weeds).

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  Languages spoken

  English: Fluent
  French: Fluent

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  Accommodation

  We can offer two private rooms. We have a large room on the first floor with two double beds, and there is a smaller groundfloor room with one double bed and direct access to outside. Both rooms are tucked away so you have your own personal space and privacy during your stay
  
  Food can be organised how you want, I can prepare meals in advance if I'm not around (I work a lot so I'm not always home for classic meal times) . Or the fridge will be stocked and you're welcome to help yourself!

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  What else ...

  It is a very remote location so a driving licence is a must, with the possibility to borrow a car if you have enough driving experience.

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  A little more information

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    Internet access

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    Limited internet access

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    We have pets

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    We are smokers

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    Can host families

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  How many Workawayers can stay?

  More than two

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  My animals / pets

  

  Sally

  

  Coleen

  

  Beleza

  

  Phil & Biquette

  

  Betty & Roger

  

  Chester

  

  Muffin

  

  Marlow

  

  Edith aka Mimi

  

  Vince

  

  Nala

  Nala

  

  Marcel & Snoopy

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