Dive into the history of Île d'Oléron by taking part in the renovation of a 16th century estate! Every stone has a story to tell. Just outside the city, you will find the large estate of La Cailletière, owned by the municipality since 2008. In the 16th century, it was a manor consisting of a large manor house with several rooms on the ground floor and first floor, a bordier house (workers' house) and included wine cellars, distilleries, livestock and poultry parks. The municipality of Dolus d'Oléron will open this space to the public and will add an international dimension by hosting this project with La Maison des Bateleurs.
Volunteer work
You will have the honor of being one of the first international volunteers to enter this building, which has been partially closed to the public for years. Under the supervision of a specialized technical instructor, you will start by removing the plaster on the wall. Then you will remove the old mortar and repoint the stones to enhance their beauty. This will be a great opportunity to learn traditional masonry techniques, as well as ceiling work and insulation installation. Bring suitable work clothing, as it can get dirty. Safety equipment is provided and no prior qualification is required. You will work approximately 4 to 5 hours per day.
Accommodation
Accommodation is in single or double tents at the René Roux sports complex, where you will have exclusive access to the changing rooms for showers. You will need to bring your warm sleeping bag and a pillow; the project partner will provide air mattresses. Food will be provided for all meals, with a budget managed jointly by the group and the leaders. You will take turns preparing meals, prioritising local resources and respecting everyone’s dietary requirements (hot and cold dishes, vegetarian and vegan).
Leisure
On Île d'Oléron you can enjoy many water activities, such as fishing and surfing with local clubs. The beach, bike rides along the coast, beach volleyball and other pleasures await you. You can also visit cities such as La Rochelle and Rochefort. Activities and outings are organised with the locals and especially with youth organisations. Free time will encourage you to meet the locals who are waiting for you with great anticipation!
Travel
Volunteers travel to Dolus d'Oleron themselves. There you will be picked up by the project partner.
You arrange the travel to your project yourself. IBO asks all volunteers to travel in the most sustainable way possible, so preferably by train or bus. What you at least can do, is compensate your CO2 emissions. You can find more information about this on the website of Milieu Centraal. You can also compensate your emissions via IBO, by donating to our partner’s tree planting project in Uganda. You can read more about that here..
Preparation
IBO offers a good preparation for your volunteering work abroad.You will receive a digital information package and an invitation to a preparation meeting. Read more about the proces from departure until return.
Cost
IBO asks €50 registration fee. In addition, you pay a participation fee of €189 for this project. You can also become an IBO-supporter, then you do not pay a registration fee.
Would you like to know more about how your contribution is made and how it is spent? Read about the costs for participation.
Register
Register as a volunteer at IBO here.