Guesthouse in Portugal Volunteering

Jan and Lizz, aged 58 and 60, have been living in Central Portugal since April 2022, where they established a welcoming wellbeing guesthouse. The property attracts Caminho walkers, holidaymakers, retreat guests, nature enthusiasts and people seeking a peaceful place to relax and recharge. They enjoy creating a beautiful environment and sharing it with visitors from around the world.

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During the winter months, when the guesthouse closes to visitors, they turn their attention to improving and expanding the property. They are looking for enthusiastic, practical helpers who would like to get involved in various renovation, gardening and creative projects. Jan and Lizz enjoy an active lifestyle but also value good company, shared meals and time to unwind. Their three cats are also part of the household!

Tasks & Roles

Helpers will assist with a variety of indoor and outdoor improvement projects around the property. Tasks include planting trees in the pool garden, preparing vegetable beds, pruning, clearing garden areas, painting, decorating with rocks and building new pergolas on the terraces. There will also be opportunities to get involved in creative carpentry and general DIY projects.

Previous experience in gardening, painting, carpentry or similar practical work would be an advantage, although it is not essential. Jan and Lizz particularly appreciate people with a hands-on attitude who enjoy working outdoors, using their creativity and learning new skills.

The arrangement involves approximately 30 hours of help per week, with six hours a day from Monday to Friday. Weekends are free for helpers to relax and explore the surrounding area.

Living & Getting There

Helpers will have their own comfortable studio on the first floor, with a private entrance and plenty of space to enjoy some privacy. The accommodation includes a large double bed, a single bed, a kitchenette, a walk-in bathroom with a shower and toilet, a wardrobe, and a table and chairs. Towels, bathrobes, beach towels, face cloths, a hairdryer and shower gel are also provided. Helpers can use the laundry room, and Starlink Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.

Jan and Lizz enjoy preparing fresh, healthy meals using local, organic and seasonal ingredients, including fruit and vegetables from their own garden. Meals include vegetarian, chicken and fish options, with two meals provided each day. Helpers can prepare their own breakfast using the available food, and snacks, coffee, tea and water are available throughout the day. Anyone who enjoys cooking is welcome to lend a hand in the kitchen. Dietary requirements and preferences should be discussed in advance.

The property is situated on top of a mountain, surrounded by beautiful views of the surrounding valleys and countryside, with plenty of hiking trails nearby. The nearest village, Alvaiázere, is approximately 3.5 km downhill. Several river beaches, ideal for swimming and relaxing, can be reached within a 15-minute drive.

The nearest international airports are Humberto Delgado Airport in Lisbon (LIS) and Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto (OPO). From either city, helpers can travel by bus or train to a nearby station, such as Pombal, Tomar or Caxarias, where Jan and Lizz can arrange collection. Helpers are responsible for organising their own transport and travel insurance.

What else

There is plenty to discover in the surrounding region during free time. Nature lovers can explore the numerous walking trails, while Valle d’Encanto, a nearby ranch within walking distance, offers the opportunity to enjoy a game of disc golf among the animals. The historic Templar city of Tomar, as well as Coimbra and Pombal, are also worth visiting. Those keen to spend time by the sea will find the Atlantic coast and its beaches approximately an hour’s drive away.

Jan and Lizz have room for up to two helpers, making this a suitable opportunity for a couple or friends travelling together. They welcome people who are enthusiastic about contributing to their projects, sharing experiences and enjoying a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Helpers are expected to respect their home and maintain a drug-free environment; drug misuse is not permitted.

When getting in touch, prospective helpers are encouraged to introduce themselves, explain what interests them about the opportunity, describe any relevant skills they can offer and mention what they would like to learn.