The project
The Friends of Clausonne Abbey association would like to build a burnt-wood hut to accommodate hikers in case of bad weather. Construction will take place over 2 years, and this year we will be preparing to lay the foundations. We'll clear the necessary space in the old sheepfold and select the stone for the cyclopean foundations.
We will also be working on embellishing the immediate surroundings of the sheepfold: we have found the remains of an old dry-stone retaining wall, which we began restoring last year. In 2024, we'll be continuing the restoration of this wall: we'll be lowering the slope, finding the old stones and dismantling the wall until we're back on a sound footing. We will then learn how to build a dry stone wall and rebuild the embankment. We will also restore the masonry inside the sheepfold, learn how to prepare mortar and work on the old stone walls.
The technique is not complex, but requires patience and a keen sense of observation. The work is supervised by a professional who will pass on his knowledge and technical skills, and ensure the safety of the site. The work can be physical, but is accessible to everyone, regardless of physical condition. Everyone participates according to their means. Talk to us if you have any special needs (injury, illness, etc.)
Accommodation & food
You will be accommodated in an individual tent on one of the camping spots at the Faï farm. Le Faï is an old farm run, animated and renovated by the association Les Villages des Jeunes, located 15 minutes' walk from the abbey. On site, you will meet other people from all over the world, find out about the association's project and take part in the other activities we do there. The campsite has a beautiful view and the Faï is a lively place.
We'll be preparing our own meals, taking turns as a team. The aim is also to share recipes typical of your region! Bear in mind that we won't be eating meat or animal products every day, in order to control our environmental impact.
Location & leisure
We'll work together to manage day-to-day life: menus, outings, shopping... The idea is for everyone to contribute with their own ideas and share their own vision of things. We're really looking to manage ourselves. It's not always easy, and you'll be accompanied by our team in making collective decisions.
Evenings and weekends are free, for the activities we choose to organise together. We'll be exploring the region together, going hiking or bivouacking if we feel like it, or visiting rivers and lakes for swimming, the local markets to discover regional produce and the entertainment at the Faï to meet new people! The hostel generally organises one musical evening a week, with homemade wood-fired pizzas.
Project host
The Clausonne abbey was founded in the 12th century by the Chalaisian order. They decided to settle in this lush haven of greenery, in a remote mountain range that was inhabited at the time. At an altitude of 1140m, the site is well guarded by the Maraize canyons to the west and a high plateau to the east.
Destroyed and rebuilt over the centuries, through religious wars and various inhabitants and owners, the abbey is now mainly visited by walkers, campers and musicians. Since 1994, the Friends of Clausonne Abbey association has been working to protect, maintain and promote the site, by carrying out masonry work on the abbey church, landscaping the area around the site, promoting hiking trails for tourists and organising cultural events, including the arrival of a grand piano, which resides in the former choir of the abbey throughout the summer.
Interested?
Enquire below and we'll connect you with one of our volunteering team to help you apply or answer any questions. We can help guide you through the process for a hassle free journey to your next project.