The project
Dive into the history of Île d'Oléron by participating in the renovation of a 16th-century estate! Every stone has a story to tell. Just outside the city, you will find the grand estate of La Cailletière, owned by the municipality since 2008 and a remarkable historical site. In the 16th century, it was an estate consisting of a large manor house with multiple rooms on the ground and first floors, a Bordier house (workers' dwelling), and included wine cellars, distilleries, livestock and poultry parks, and an iconic octagonal dovecote. The municipality of Dolus d'Oléron wants to open this space to the public and add an international dimension to it by hosting this project with La Maison des Bateleurs. It is much more than just a heritage site to preserve; it is now a vibrant living space featuring artistic projects, cultural activities, and shared gardens. This project invites participants to take part in the restoration of the site and simultaneously contribute to the sense of community and intercultural dynamics, in a spirit of sharing and discovery.
Volunteer work
This is the second edition of the project at Domaine de la Cailletière, a follow-up to the projects started last year. The main task is to restore the historic wall surrounding the grounds, under the supervision of technical guidance. Participants help demolish damaged or unstable sections, after which they rebuild the wall to straighten, stabilize, and secure it. You will learn and apply traditional masonry techniques, restoring the authentic appearance of the wall using natural stone and lime mortar. Bring suitable work clothes, as it may get dirty. Safety equipment is provided, and no prior qualifications are required. The work sessions last approximately 4 to 5 hours per day and offer a perfect balance between practical activities and free time to explore the island.
Accommodation
Accommodation is in single or double tents at the René Roux sports complex, a 7-minute walk from Domaine de la Cailletière, where you have exclusive access to the changing rooms for showers. You must bring your warm sleeping bag and a pillow; the project partner provides air mattresses. Food is provided for all meals, with a budget jointly managed by the group and the supervisors. You take turns preparing meals, prioritizing local sources 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, coastal bike rides, beach volleyball, and other pleasures await you. You can also visit cities like La Rochelle and Rochefort. Activities and excursions are organized with the local population and, in particular, with youth organizations. Leisure time will encourage you to meet the locals for cultural exchange.
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.