Volunteer at the Château
Discover opportunities to live and work in an incredible environment
A lifestyle like no other in a French Chateau
Château Avensac is currently looking for the right person (or couple) to fill a special volunteer position…The Chateau is in need of a person who likes to cook, cleanup and visit the local markets and shops. If you are a couple, there are always gardening and DIY jobs around the chateau for the partner.
We are looking for the new member of the Château Avensac family to join us in the beginning of September 2023.
Job duties
Please note that the Chateau is under restoration and is NOT operating as a business.
1. Prepare and cook lunch, and dinner for the two gentlemen of the chateau, as well as yourself and the occasional (and rare) personal guests of the Chateau.
2. Visit the local markets, shops, and grocers to purchase all items and supplies needed for the meals, and sundries needed for day to day life in the castle.
3. Keep kitchen space clean before and after every meal.
4. The opportunity to become part of our family and join in on the restoration and revelry.
What you receive
1. Free room and board in the Chateau. A private bedroom and semi private bathroom. Due to the current restorations, bathroom space is at a premium in the Chateau. If the owners have personal guests staying at the Chateau, the guest will need to share the bathroom spaces with you.
2. Use of a car for shopping and local exploration.
3. Our assistance in obtaining a long stay Visa for France, which also allows you access to the EU. You will need to meet the requirements of the French government to obtain a long stay Visa. This type of visa can be renewed yearly.
4. The opportunity to learn or improve your french. Speaking french is always an advantage, but not necessary. It is wise to learn a few words and phrases to help you get around. The French respond well when you attempt to speak to them in French. In addition there is a lovely english speaking community in the area.
The Fine Print
1. We are looking for a person (or couple) willing to commit to a one year stay.
2. If you have a spouse or significant other, we are open to a couple. Other duties and opportunities are available for the second.
3. Work days expected are Monday through Friday.
4. Time away to be negotiated after the first three months.
5. You must have a valid US or EU driving license (or the equivalent) and must be able to drive a standard transmission.
6. You will be responsible for the cleanliness of your own space and bathroom, as well as the kitchen on the days you are on duty. The house keeper will clean the bathroom space if a guest of the owners is going to be present.
7. The Chateau is under full restoration. Living spaces could possibly shift around during your stay, but your comfort will always be maintained.
8. If you have the desire and the skills, you may join in on restoration projects going on in the Chateau, or its gardens.
9. There are 2 cats that roam the halls. They think they own the place but simply do nothing to help out.
10. We live in a small quiet village (Avensac, France) about 1 hour from the Toulouse airport, 1 hour 15 minutes to Toulouse, 2 hours from Bordeaux. It is breathtaking here in the French countryside, one of the most picturesque areas in all of France.
11. You will need to provide your own transportation to and from Toulouse airport, we will take care of the rest.