Join us in southwest France and be part of an exciting house renovation in France while enjoying a comfortable stay in a private apartment. We are Allan and Dawn, a couple who recently relocated to this stunning region near Carcassonne, where we are restoring our property with breathtaking views of the Pyrenees mountains. Originally from Australia and the United States, we moved here from the UK and have a passion for cooking, with Dawn currently working on a collection of recipes for an upcoming website. Our home is also a welcoming space for photographers and artisans who would like to share their skills and creativity.
House Renovation in France: Tasks & Roles
We are looking for enthusiastic individuals to assist with various projects, particularly landscaping, which includes constructing retaining walls, tiling outdoor spaces, planting trees and flowers, and developing a vegetable garden. Experience with a small backhoe or CAT machinery would be particularly useful for some of the excavation work. Additionally, we plan to build a pergola, design courtyards, and lay tiles around the pool area.
Inside the house, we need help with painting, carpentry, and furniture restoration. There are a few cabinets that, with the right attention, could be transformed into stunning pieces. If you enjoy cooking, we’d love to collaborate in the kitchen, trying out new recipes and sharing ideas. Food photographers are also welcome to join us, as Dawn is keen to document her culinary creations.
For those with an interest in sustainability, we are planning to install an irrigation system powered by wind energy—an excellent opportunity for anyone with relevant expertise. Additionally, we would be happy to engage in a language exchange, as we are still learning French and would love the chance to improve. If any of these projects appeal to you, we’d be delighted to provide further details.
House Renovation in France: Living & Getting There
We offer a comfortable and private living space, including a self-contained apartment with a queen bed and a partially furnished sitting area. Alternatively, there is an ensuite double room with a private terrace, ideal for relaxation. Meals are provided, along with a glass of wine in the evening, and our outdoor kitchen and BBQ area are available for use. Once the outdoor tiling is completed, volunteers will also have access to the swimming pool, perfect for unwinding after a day’s work.
Our property is situated 20 minutes from Carcassonne airport and just over an hour from Toulouse airport. As public transport is not available within walking distance, having a car is necessary. In some instances, we may be able to lend a vehicle for short day trips, and we can arrange an airport pickup if required. The region is ideally located for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, with the Pyrenees mountains just 45 minutes away and the Mediterranean coastline an hour’s drive.
House Renovation in France: What Else
Southwest France is a wonderful place to explore, with opportunities for skiing in winter and sunbathing in summer. The region is rich in history, featuring the medieval city of Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage site, as well as the scenic Midi Canal. You can also visit Cathar castles, hike through the mountains, and discover the vibrant markets of Narbonne, Toulouse, and the surrounding villages. The area is renowned for its wineries, underground caves, and thrilling outdoor activities, including white-water rafting, kayaking, and sand yachting along the beaches near Narbonne.
To ensure a smooth stay, volunteers should have valid travel and health insurance. Upon arrival, we will ask for identification and next-of-kin details. It is important that you are in good health and physically fit, as some of the tasks require manual labour. Smoking is permitted only outdoors, and our home may not be suitable for those with pre-existing physical or mental health conditions. If you struggle with drug or alcohol dependency, this may not be the right environment for you. Likewise, if you find it difficult to disconnect from your phone, this experience may not be a good fit.
We love good food, wine, and lively conversation, and we welcome people from all backgrounds who are eager to contribute and share in the experience. However, a good level of English is essential for clear communication. We look forward to welcoming you and sharing this beautiful part of France with you!
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