📝 Detailed information
🏢 About the local organisation
Located in the heart of the Nièvre area, Varzy is a small town renowned for preserving its natural and built heritage. In addition to its Renaissance château, you'll have the chance to discover the charm of its narrow streets, admire the architecture of its traditional double-sided wash-house and discover the church of Saint-Pierre, a true Gothic architectural masterpiece. You'll also have the chance to admire Auguste Grasset's collection of unusual objects, displayed in the eponymous museum, where you will also be able to discover the quality of local earthenware and the artistic talents of local painter Rex-Barrat. Time will also be set aside to meet local residents, young and old alike, to give you a full human experience.
💼 What the programme involves
Take part in the construction of a playground for young people in Varzy, a dynamic little town in France, located halfway between cities of Auxerre and Nevers.
The project is part of a citizens' initiative led by the local council and local parents, who have worked together to imagine a new public space that will be at the same time a playing area for children and a meeting place for parents. In the future, families will be able to meet there and share precious moments together.
Your mission will be to build wooden street furniture (benches) and install small children's equipment in a protected area around Varzy's municipal castle, to the great delight of families.
🏠 Accommodation on site
You will be hosted in the municipal castle, where rooms will be provided for you to sleep in. This former 15th-century castle was completely renovated in 2016 to provide the best possible setting for any type of event. Make sure you bring your sleeping bag and toiletries. Sanitary facilities will be available on site. A kitchen and a refectory will be at your disposal. In collaboration with the animation team, you will participate to the shopping and to the cooking. Following an eco-friendly approach, you will be invited to use local and seasonal products. By the way, feel free to come with your own recipes, it's a great opportunity to share your history and culture with the group. A washing machine or laundromat will be available from time to time (preferably allow 3 weeks for laundry). Wifi will be available on site or shared with the French volunteers and the activities team.
📍 About the location
Varzy is located two hours south of Paris, in the heart of the Nièvre region, renowned for its waterways, nature parks and vineyards. It is an area with a very rich history. In your free time, don't hesitate to discover the towns and castles of the region, particularly the cities of Clamecy and La Charité-sur-Loire.
⚠️ Requirements
The site is located in a rural area. For practical and ecological considerations, you will be travelling mainly on foot.
Remember to bring gloves, clothing and footwear suitable for outdoor work. Don't forget to bring a sleeping bag. You should also bring summer and rain clothing, a swimming costume and toiletries.
ℹ️ Additional information
You can bring board games, a musical instrument or any other object from your region/country that you would like to share with the group.
