📝 Detailed information
🏢 About the local organisation
Vanzac is a charming small village in the south-west of France, located in the wooded Saintonage. The town has varied landscapes, from pretty valleys to wooded hills. As well as rich archaeological and environmental heritage such as the Neolithic camp with entrances like ¨pinces de crabes¨; the Gallo-Roman site located 200m from the church, the open path on the wooded hill, the springs, the wash house, etc. From a perspective of local dynamism and following the ideas of inter cultural exchange and intergenerational interaction, the people and municipality of Vanzac wanted to organize an international workcamp to restore and preserve their local heritage. You will participate in restoring the historic laundry of Vanzac, which pays tribute to Pierre Bertin, a Vanzac inhabitant of the sixteenth century. The village of Vanzac is looking forward to this experience, everyone is waiting and ready to welcome you!
💼 What the programme involves
You will take part in the entire renovation of the village's wash house, from its traditional wooden frame to its stone basin. You will be introduced to different techniques of woodworking, were you will learn the theoretical and technical bases to be able to make the main assemblies. You will also have the opportunity to learn how to use hand tools, as well as take part in some small painting and landscaping jobs. You will also perform traditional masonry work and stone restoration such as joining lime mortar to restore the tightness of the wash basin. A technical supervisor will coordinate the different construction times and will be there to support the work that has to be done.
🏠 Accommodation on site
Hosted in the village hall of Vanzac, which is furnished with all amenities. Ingredients will be provided and in exchange you will prepare the meals.
📍 About the location
Vanzac, Charente Maritime, 70 km from Bordeaux.
Leisure activities: At the crossroads of several charming villages of the South- Saintonge, you can enjoy the local heritage. You will have the opportunity of enjoying a cultural exchange with the local inhabitants who will have the pleasure to help you discover the richness of the surroundings. Outside of the working hours, you will be able to participate in festive activities: the national day, the night markets, visits to local producers and tastings of their products. Visits to the towns of Bordeaux or Angoulême and a day to the sea can all be organized. The French vineyard towns of Cognac and St Emilion are also nearby!