📝 Detailed information
🏢 About the local organisation
Like a haven of peace in a natural landscape, Bagnères-de-Bigorre is a small town at the foot of the Pyrenees Mountain with many fountains around the village. By venturing into the valley, we discover the natural fountain of Saint Blaise, known for decades in all the area for its numerous curative characteristics. We can drink it just as we can take a bath into it!
There are also some hidden natural sources for the most curious.
Bagnères-de-Bigorre is also known for the former marble exploitation, you can find examples in the Uzer's house and the Jeanne d'Albret's house, both registered as historical monuments. This summer, Concordia starts the rehabilitation of the “Vallon du Salut” that will last for several years. Locals are looking forward to meeting you!
💼 What the programme involves
You will rehabilitate the river banks of the « Vallon du Salut », renovating the walls guiding the “Aygo Tebio” river bed. You will follow a traditional technique using dry stones and clay.
The « Vallon » was the first thermal park of the city, where the flora and fauna are quite remarkable. Many inhabitants go to this park, be ready to meet local population.
🏠 Accommodation on site
You will be accommodated under tents in a campsite, with access to a kitchen, toilets and showers. You will participate in the preparation of the meals giving priority to local products.
📍 About the location
Bagnères de Bigrorre is a city of waters in the Pyrenean Piedmont, crossed by the Adour River. It is at the foot of the « Pic du Midi in Bigorre » (2876m high) overhung by an astronomical observatory. This municipality has the specificity to be a site of natural thermal sources of hot water, with numerous attractions. It’s a territory which by its architecture, landscapes, and gastronomic resources presents a real interest.
It is a very dynamic town during the summer, due to the numerous festivities which are proposed: the Festivals "Week-end des Arts de la Rue" and "Piano Pic" among others. The nearby Caves of Médous, are an interesting local curiosity. It is a nice little city with shops and bars but also very close to the nature.
ℹ️ Additional information
Think about taking clothes, gloves and shoes for working (if possible waterproof in case of rain). If you like hiking, take your hiking shoes with you to enjoy and discover the places in a different way. Take both light and warm clothes. Bring a warm sleeping bag and trekking shoes. Do not hesitate to bring specialties from home, photos, games, music instruments....
Foreigners belonging to the European Union must bring with them a personal EHIC (European Health Insurance Card), and everybody must, in any case, bring their insurance certificate. If health issues happen on the project, volunteers will have to pay for it, and be reimbursed once back home.