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Background
Quinta Das Barradas is approximately 8 km from Lagos, Algarve. It is a 5 hectare shall holding on the outskirts of Odiαxere, just 15 minutes walk away. The Quinta has been the home of the Wild family for the past 14 years. During this time it has been tastefully converted into a destination for guests seeking a very natural and relaxing rural holiday.
A small work force keep the formal garden and water system maintained (We have our own bore hole and ecological water filtration and sanitation system). There is also a small animal holding of ducks, hens, geese, goats and three horses. We have a small vegetable and herb garden that we are keen to develop and expand. Our long term aim is to be completely self sufficient in terms of organic fruit, vegetables and herbs to the hotel΄s kitchen and its sister hotel in Lagos. Being a nursery for plants is also in our sights!
Permanent Work Force
There are usually two staff assigned to the gardens at any one time. The head gardener and other garden staff are also on site once or twice a week. The resident chef is responsible for all the animals. A variety of languages are spoken, mostly Portuguese, English and German.
Tasks/Projects
Up keep of the formal gardens.
Up keep of the rose garden.
Up keep of the water system, plants and wildlife.
Composting practices.
Development of the herb garden.
Development of the vegetable garden.
Planting of citrus orchard.
Expand planting of soft fruit.
Care of farm animals (optional)
Produce harvesting.
Food preserving. EG herb drying, jams, pickles.
What a Gardening Volunteer Can Expect
A hands on organic gardening experience.
The opportunity to share organic ideas and knowledge.
Clean and warm accommodation (sharing with other volunteers may
be necessary during high season).
Collection from Faro airport or Lagos train station can be arranged.
Transfer charges may apply.
All week day meals to be taken with other volunteers and/or staff.
Weekend meals and drinks can be arranged for a fee.
Not to be asked to carry out any tasks deemed non organic or
dangerous.
Car and/or bike hire can be arranged (prices on request).
What We As Hosts Expect
Prior notification in writing or by email of arrival and departure dates
and times.
Proof of volunteer organisation membership and personal insurance
prior to arrival.
Advanced notification of any dietary requests.
Minimum stay ten working days, maximum stay one month.
The commitment to work 6 hours day, 5 days week (9am-12am and
2pm-5pm/July + August: 3-6pm)
Volunteers to provide the appropriate clothes and footwear for
outdoor work.
The ability and reliability to work unsupervised once a task has
been explained.
Full respect for the hotels clients privacy and space.
No consumption of alcohol during working hours and lunch breaks.
No pets.
The Overall Picture
This is a two way venture. In exchange for your help and commitment to work we will provide a safe, comfortable environment to experience and enjoy a typically Algarvian, rural way of life. Communication and mutual respect is essential from both parties to ensure a happy, fulfilling and successful relationship. We hope you depart from us as friends and plan to return again in the future.
However, if irresolvable circumstances should arise either party may terminate the venture by giving 48 hours notice of intended departure.
Future Ventures
Links with UK Horticultural Colleges.
UK working holidays.
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