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Grow our permaculture paradise in Combrailles , France

Availability

  2025 

 Min stay requested: at least a week

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Details

  • Description

    Description

    Help us build our dream: a permaculture haven in the heart of France!

    Bonjour, future Workawayers! We are a Belgian family who, in early 2022, took the leap to rural France to create a self-sufficient, ecological paradise. Nestled in the rolling countryside near the charming village of Pionsat, we are turning our dream into reality: a thriving food forest and a permaculture vegetable garden.

    We share our land with chickens, two ponies, two dogs, and several beehives, and we hope to expand our beekeeping next year. There’s always something happening here, and we would love your help!

    We value connection with other cultures and love sharing our way of life with others. We believe in the power of exchange—whether it’s knowledge about permaculture, sustainability, or simply learning from each other’s experiences. Our aim is not only to create a self-sufficient space but also to foster a sense of community where everyone feels welcome and inspired by the natural world around us.

    What you’ll get in return: Besides delicious homegrown food and the satisfaction of working with nature, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the beautiful surroundings: hiking, swimming in lakes, and even venturing into the nearby volcano region!

    Join us for an unforgettable experience in the French countryside!

  • Types of help and learning opportunities

    Types of help and learning opportunities

    Help with Eco Projects
    Gardening
    DIY and building projects
    Animal Care
    Farmstay help
    Creating/ Cooking family meals
  • UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve

    UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve

    UN goals
    No poverty
    Zero hunger
    Good health and well-being
    Quality education
    Gender equality
    Clean water and sanitation
    Affordable and clean energy
    Decent work and economic growth
    Industries, innovation and infrastructure
    Reduce inequality
    Sustainable cities and communities
    Responsible consumption and production
    Climate action
    Life below water
    Life on land
    Peace, justice and strong institutions
    Partnerships for the goals
  • Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

    Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

    We can speak Dutch, English and French together. There are opportunities for learning about permaculture and homesteading. If you are looking for a peaceful stay where you can connect with nature, this is your place. You can explore the beautiful rural environment by foot, go swimming or just relax with a book.

  • Projects involving children

    Projects involving children

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

  • Help

    Help

    What we need help with:
    Working in the vegetable garden: sowing, planting, harvesting, and general diy tasks
    Taking care of the land and, if you’d like, helping with the animals
    Sharing creative ideas and taking initiative to help shape this evolving project.

    No experience? No problem! Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just eager to learn, you are welcome here. We’re all in a learning process and enjoy exchanging knowledge about permaculture, food preservation, and homesteading.

  • Languages

    Languages spoken
    Dutch: Fluent
    English: Intermediate
    French: Intermediate

    This host offers a language exchange
    We love to improve our French and maintain our English. We can help with learning Dutch and English.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation

    We offer several accommodation options: a camping spot in our garden (with a tent and mattress available), a stay in our caravan, or a parking space for your own campervan in front of the house. Our home is simple, but we spend most of our time outdoors, enjoying nature and working on our project.

    We share three meals a day, mostly vegetarian, with the option for vegan meals as well.

    Work & Schedule
    The work here is calm and flexible—no strict schedules or clock-watching. We aim for a loose daily rhythm that suits both us and our volunteers. Since we often work all day ourselves, we encourage everyone to find a balance that works.

    In summer, when the heat is intense, we prefer to work early in the morning and later in the afternoon when it cools down.

  • What else ...

    What else ...

    We live in the Combrailles region, a hidden gem in France known for its beautiful landscapes and tranquility. Public transport here is limited, so having your own vehicle is a plus. However, we are accessible by a combination of bus and train, and we’re happy to help you find the best route!

  • A little more information

    A little more information

    • Internet access

    • Limited internet access

      Limited internet access

    • We have pets

    • We are smokers

    • Can host families

  • Space for parking camper vans

    Space for parking camper vans

    We have plenty of space for parking a van. We can provide electricity and water.

  • How many Workawayers can stay?

    How many Workawayers can stay?

    Two

Host ref number: 992955637187

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