📝 Detailed information
🏢 About the local organisation
Located on the estuary of the Charente, the Fouras peninsula is home to 3 harbours and 5 beaches on the Atlantic coast. In an idyllic setting overlooking Fort Boyard, the project will involve renovating Fort Vauban, also known as Fort Sémaphore, which is actually the medieval fortified castle of Fouras. It protected the town from invasion by an enemy landing from the ocean. It is surrounded by 17th-century fortifications: platforms, curtain walls and a massive tower. This project is part of the ongoing partnership with the municipality of Fouras and its desire to pursue local development initiatives (including the renovation of the Fort de l'Aiguille), through the intercultural dynamic created by the youth volunteer projects.
💼 What the programme involves
The aim of this project is to renovate the counterscarp wall of the Fort Vauban citadel. The renovation project aims to restore this historic structure in order to preserve its integrity, guarantee the stability of the site and highlight the rich local cultural heritage, following an approach that respects the original characteristics of the wall.
Accompanied by a specialist technical supervisor, you will initially be responsible for removing the vegetation from the facade, then disjointing and repointing with lime mortar. You'll learn a variety of techniques, including traditional masonry.
You will be working mornings of 5 to 6 hours. Dismantling, cleaning, repairing and consolidating the counterscarp wall will be part of the work programme. Come with work clothes or clothes that may be damaged or dirty. We will provide you with safety equipment. No qualifications are required for this project.
🏠 Accommodation on site
Group accommodation in tents for 2 people, at the Fouras municipal *** campsite (swimming pool, multi-sports area, WIFI, snack bar...). You must bring your own warm duvet and a pillow; we provide inflatable mattresses. Bicycles are available for use around town. Food will be provided for breakfast, lunch and dinner (you will have a food budget which the leaders will manage and communicate with you throughout the work camp). Meals will be prepared in turn by you, especially for lunch and dinner, while respecting environmental values and local resources, as well as everyone's culture (hot and cold dishes as well as vegetarian and vegan dishes will be prepared).
📍 About the location
Fouras-les-Bains (17450), Charente-Maritime, 20 km from La Rochelle.
Leisure activities You can enjoy a wide range of activities, including the European Heritage Days, fishing and sailing with the local clubs. The beach, seaside bike rides, beach volleyball and other pleasures are all there for you to discover. You can also visit towns such as La Rochelle and Rochefort. Leisure time and local activities will give you the chance to meet the locals, who are eagerly awaiting your arrival!