Union REMPART (FRANCE)

Union REMPART (FRANCE)

These holidays are organised by Union REMPART, a union of 170 French non-profit associations run mostly by volunteers. They aim to promote cultural action based on the principles of awareness, preservation and rehabilitation of architectural, archaeological and natural heritage. They offer numerous working holidays throughout France, of which we are featuring three. Please note that whilst some English is spoken on the holidays, a basic knowledge of French would be advantageous.

Conserving Villognon Ancient Watermill
The holiday (18-25 year olds): Nanteuil en Vallée is a charming village in the Charantes region in Western France. Join an international team focussed on the restoration of the beautiful Villognon Ancient Watermill, which is within walking distance of the village. Over the fortnight you have the opportunity to use a number of different techniques: stone masonry, re-pointing, woodworking and landscaping. There will also be time to try some of the many leisure activities planned by your leaders. These holidays are more suitable for 18-25 year olds who have a good level of fitness and a strong wish to integrate into an international team.
Meeting point: Participants will be met at Ruffec train station in the afternoon on the start day of the holiday and transferred by minibus.
Accommodation: Camping in tents that sleep a maximum of four people, with showers and toilets in separate buildings. You will need to bring a sleeping bag, pillow and mattress/mat. Participants will share shopping, cooking and cleaning duties.

Holiday date                        No. of nts                Price

Sat 28 Jun – Sun 13 Jul 2015         15                      EUR220 (£186)*

Wed 16 Jul – Thu 31 Jul 2014         15                      EUR220 (£186)*

Tue 19 Aug – Tue 2 Sep 2014          14                      EUR200 (£169)*

Revolutionary Re-build : Stone Masonry
The holiday: Budos Castle, situated in Aquitaine in South West France, was built in the early fourteenth century and was severely damaged in the French Revolution more than four centuries later. Nowadays it holds ‘Historic Listed Building’ status and is currently undergoing restoration. You will have the opportunity to learn new skills in stone cutting and traditional masonry techniques under expert guidance to assist with this project. There will also be time to discover the fantastic heritage in the region and enjoy cultural activities planned by the holiday leaders.
Meeting point: Participants will be met at Langon train station (Gare SNCF de Langon) in the morning on the start day of the holiday and transferred by minibus.
Accommodation: Camping in tents that sleep a maximum of four people, with showers and toilets in separate buildings. Mattresses are provided but you will need to bring a sleeping bag and pillow. Participants will share shopping, cooking and cleaning duties.

Holiday date                            No. of nts             Price

Thu 17 Jul – Mon 28 Jul 2014            11nts               EUR180 (£152)*

Fri 1 Aug – Tue 12 Aug 2014             11nts               EUR180 (£152)*

Sat 16 Aug – Wed 27 Aug 2014            11nts               EUR180 (£152)*

Restoring Rochefort Castle
The holiday: Takes place at the ruined castle of Rochefort, one of the most beautiful castles in Northern Burgundy. Built in the late fifteenth century, it combines various architectural styles including renaissance. Under the guidance of skilled leaders, you will participate in different restoration activities including archaeological surveys and the consolidation of the retaining walls of the terraces. So be ready to experience traditional masonry! This holiday will also include hiking, tours in the surrounding countryside and swimming pool parties with the local volunteers.
Meeting point: Participants will be met at Montbard train station in the afternoon on the start day of the holiday.
Accommodation: You will stay in a house owned by the association in the village of Asnières-en-Montagne. Showers and toilets are available inside, as well as dormitories. You will need to bring a sleeping bag. Participants will share shopping, cooking and cleaning duties.

Holiday date                          No. of nts              Price

Sun 13 Jul – Sun 27 Jul 2014          14                    EUR180 (£152)*

Mon 4 Aug – Sun 17 Aug 2014           13                    EUR180 (£152)*

*Approx. GBP£ price based on an exchange rate of 1.1827 on 4 Nov 2013

To book please email workingholidays@rempart.com with your preferred holiday, date and contact details. For more information about this organisation and to view other holidays go to www.rempart.com