This opportunity offers helpers the chance to experience a simple lifestyle in France while contributing to the upkeep of a welcoming rural home in the peaceful Deux-Sèvres region of South West France. The hosts are looking for practical and enthusiastic people who enjoy outdoor projects, DIY tasks and becoming part of a relaxed countryside environment.
In exchange for around 25 hours of help each week, helpers receive full board and the opportunity to experience authentic French rural living. The main focus will be restoring an overgrown garden, improving outdoor areas and supporting general maintenance projects around the property.
Tasks & Roles
Those seeking a simple lifestyle in France will help with a variety of practical tasks based on the needs of the home. Much of the work involves gardening, including cutting grass, removing weeds, maintaining outdoor spaces and helping to bring a neglected garden back to life.
Helpers may also assist with organising outbuildings, painting, carpentry, renovations and general DIY projects. A selection of powered equipment is available, including strimmers, a ride-on mower, hedge trimmers and a traditional 1950s Allen scythe. Anyone with an interest in mechanics can also help with servicing and maintaining some of these tools.
This role is suited to people who enjoy hands-on work, learning new skills and taking pride in improving a rural property.
Living & Getting There
A simple lifestyle in France awaits helpers who enjoy peaceful countryside living away from busy towns and cities. Volunteers receive their own private bedroom, while bathroom facilities are shared with the household.
Full board is provided, and helpers are invited to join the hosts for family-style meals, creating the opportunity to experience everyday French home life. The accommodation is located in a remote area with limited public transport, so helpers should feel comfortable with a quiet rural setting.
The nearest airport is Poitiers–Biard Airport (PIS). The closest railway station is Saint-Maixent-l’École, and the hosts can arrange collection from the station.
What else
This experience is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a simple lifestyle in France, reconnect with nature and spend time in a traditional countryside setting. Helpers should be happy sharing a home environment, joining communal meals and adapting to the slower pace of rural life.
The hosts welcome non-smokers and cannot accept online workers, as the internet connection is not suitable for remote work and previous experience has shown that working online can affect the shared household atmosphere.
Applicants should provide their full name for identity verification on arrival, explain their travel plans and confirm that this peaceful rural lifestyle matches what they are looking for.
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