Profile information
Host is looking for help immediately
Host rating
85 %
Last replied
28 Apr 2025
Reply rate
100.0 %
Usually responds within 21 days
Feedback
-
Email verified
Badges (1)
Details
Description
Join us for an ecological renovation in a welcoming Breton hamlet!
About us, the project, and the area:
We are a Dutch/French-speaking family living in a charming hamlet in Brittany, where the simple, rural lifestyle is still very much alive. Our community is warm, helpful, and friendly, and we love filling our days with music, singing, good food, and meaningful conversations. Right now, we are renovating a beautiful, traditional Breton stone house, which we’re rebuilding from the ground up using sustainable, natural materials.
This is a non-profit project, and we are looking for volunteers to help with personal, family-focused projects in exchange for cultural exchange and the opportunity to learn new skills.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Babysitting and creative play
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Interests
Farming
Self development
Sustainability
Adventure sports
Beach
Nature
Plant care
Languages
Music
Gardening
Carpentry
Cooking & food
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
At our home, you’ll experience a unique blend of Dutch, Breton, and French cultures. We are a multilingual family, speaking a mix of English, French, and Dutch, creating a lively, welcoming atmosphere and a chance for you to practice multiple languages.
Valentin, while Breton by heritage, brings an eclectic mix of influences, having lived and worked abroad, which gives him a unique perspective on both Breton and international approaches to sustainable building. Marleen, originally from the Netherlands, adds Dutch traditions, gardening skills, and a passion for creating a cozy home environment. We have a 3-year-old son, Obi, who is a wonderful, friendly child who loves meeting new people. He will bring a smile on every ones face!
Living in a small Breton hamlet, you’ll also be part of a friendly, close-knit community. Our neighbors are warm, helpful, and love sharing stories about local life. The village offers a step back in time, where simplicity and connection are valued, allowing you to immerse yourself in the traditional rural lifestyle of Brittany. Additionally, we sometimes make music together and love to share meals, giving you a real taste of both Breton and Dutch culinary traditions. This is a unique, multicultural experience full of learning, sharing, and connecting, with opportunities to explore gardening, eco-building, and local customs.
Projects involving children
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
Help
During the week, Obi attends school during the day, so we have dedicated time to focus on the renovation project.
Our renovation is well underway and is focused entirely on creating a comfortable, sustainable family home. We’re currently working on building the walls on the first floor, preparing for a new bathroom installation, and redoing the entire water system. We’re inviting volunteers who are enthusiastic about learning and sharing skills in ecological building and sustainable techniques.
Valentin, who is Breton, brings a wealth of experience in renovation. He has run his own business in the Netherlands and was involved in the renovation of a beautiful castle, where he handled everything from managing forest resources to using wood in restoration work. He is highly skilled in ecological building and is eager to share his expertise with volunteers. This isn’t a replacement for paid local tradespeople; in fact, we’re hiring local professionals for specific tasks like electrical work.
Who we’re looking for:
We’re looking for a volunteer who loves ecological building, is hands-on, and is excited to be part of our family. If you have experience with sustainable building techniques, enjoy good food, meaningful conversations, and music, we would be delighted to welcome you!
Languages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
French: Fluent
Dutch: FluentThis 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
We offer a comfortable room in a traditional Breton house where we’re currently living, just a 2-minute walk from the renovation project. The house is located in a peaceful area next to a forest and a beautiful river, providing a tranquil environment where you can relax after a day’s work.
The room is cozy and welcoming, with access to shared facilities like the kitchen and bathroom. You’ll also have access to our shared living spaces, where we often gather for meals, good conversation and making music. We love creating a warm, family atmosphere, an as our guest, you’ll be welcome to join in our daily routines.
The hamlet itself is friendly and close-knit, making it easy to feel at home here. Our location is rural, yet we’re about a 30-minute drive from the coast, where you can explore Brittany’s stunning beaches and coastline on your days off.
What else ...
During your free time, you’ll have the chance to explore the beautiful landscapes and unique culture of Brittany. Our home is located in a charming rural hamlet, surrounded by forests and fields, perfect for quiet walks and connecting with nature. Just a short 30-minute drive away, you can enjoy the stunning Breton coastline with its dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming seaside villages.
Locally, our hamlet offers a warm, welcoming community where neighbors are friendly and helpful. The area has a timeless quality, making it feel like a step back to simpler times. You’ll have opportunities to experience Breton culture firsthand, from local markets to traditional festivals, and the nearby towns provide a chance to discover local cuisine and crafts.
If you enjoy outdoor activities, there are plenty of trails for walking, hiking, and cycling. We’re happy to suggest routes or help you find other local gems. The tranquility of the countryside here is perfect for unwinding and recharging, and you’ll have plenty of space to enjoy it all at your own pace.
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
For those traveling by camper, we have a large garden with available space where campers can park comfortably. Water and electricity are available.
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Photos
