📝 Detailed information
🏢 About the local organisation
Come to take part in the renovation of a rammed earth wall and find yourself in the heart of the green and hilly nature of Forez. As a continuation of the work on the chapel that borders with meadow grass, now it’s time to renovate a rammed earth wall (particularly soil-based mortar). This type of construction, typical for this part of France is both rustic and fragile. Come to join the group of international volunteers and local residents to help us in the renovation of this wall and give it back its character.
💼 What the programme involves
During this workcamp you will work on the façade of the wall. In some places, the masonry will be made using the same stones that are already on the site. In other places, it will require a coating with limestone or with rammed earth, if necessary. You will work on the renovation of the tiled roof that protects the wall from bad weather (checking, cleaning and fixing). This way the works will deliver visible results that will bring coherence to the renovated wall.
🏠 Accommodation on site
You will be accommodated in tents on a land plot in the heart of the hamlet. Bring a warm sleeping bag, as nights in the mountains can be quite chilly. The kitchen, toilets, showers and the common living space will be inside a communal hall. You will also be able to find shelter there in case of bad weather conditions.
You will prepare meals in turns, using products that will be bought on spot. We will encourage the purchase of local seasonal products as well as short supply circuits. Volunteers might also have an opportunity to taste local specialties provided by local producers.
📍 About the location
Saint Barthelemy Lestra is a municipality of nearly 700 inhabitants. It is located in the north of the Loire department, close to Feurs. Saint Etienne, the city of design, and Lyon, the capital of Auvergne Rhône-Alpes region, are an hour away by car. The village is located in Forez, the territory which boasts remarkable natural landscapes and unlimited opportunities for visits and strolls. This is a land rich in traditions whose hospitable inhabitants will eagerly help you to discover local heritage!
⚠️ Requirements
For the work, remember to bring gloves, clothes and shoes which you don’t mind getting dirty. Nights may be chilly, bring a warm sleeping bag and warm clothes. Do not forget sun protection as well (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen…).
Group leisure activities will be programmed together with your camp leaders taking into account your suggestions! If you would like to share a bit of your culture (cooking recipes, traditional stories, unusual objects…), do not hesitate to bring a piece of your country in your backpack!
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 will then be reimbursed once back in their home country.