📝 Detailed information
🏢 About the local organisation
You will be participating in this heritage site’s development project, which aims to open the silver mine to the public. Since 2011, volunteer workcamps have been reviving the accessibility to this site, both above and underground. Archaeological digs have also been taking place since 2009. The Vallauria mine was exploited between the middle ages and 1930. Today the site represents an example of remarkably well conserved historical and geological heritage, and is one of the most important mines in the Alps.
💼 What the programme involves
You will be working inside the mine, in the room of the great vault. The work consists on securing and implementing the room. By installing a ramp, a stone staircase, clearing the ground and moving the rubble using wheelbarrows. You will be working four days per week from 08:30 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 17:30. You will be accompanied by a technical supervisor who specialises in the restauration of heritage.
🏠 Accommodation on site
You will be sharing a room with 3-4 other volunteers. Bathrooms are also shared. Meals are prepared by our kitchen staff. You will be asked to lend a hand with the preparation of some food, tidying the dining area, and doing the dishes.
📍 About the location
Tende is located 2 hours from Nice by train. Neige et Merveilles is located at 1.500 metres above sea level in an isolated mountainous area, 10 km from the Closest village of Tende, and 50 km from Vintimille (Italy).
Leisure activities: In addition to days off at the weekend, one day in the middle of each week will be dedicated to activities. You will have the chance to learn about the surrounding mountainous area (flora, fauna, hiking in archaeological sites in the Merveilles valley), as well as the region’s cultural and historical heritage (visits to the medieval villages in the Roya valley). Sporting activities will also be offered such as visiting a forest adventure centre, via-ferrata, swimming in the rivers etc...
⚠️ Requirements
You will be working in an underground environment. Not recommended for claustrophobics! Some rocks will be heavy and difficult to move.