The walls of Cailletière

CODE: SJ51

Work:

You will have the honor of being the first international volunteers to enter this building, which has been partially closed to the public for many years.
Under the supervision of a specialized technical instructor, you will begin by removing the wall plaster. You will then clear out the old mortar and repoint the stones to highlight their beauty. This will be a great opportunity to learn traditional masonry techniques, as well as ceiling work and insulation installation. Bring appropriate work clothing, as it may get dirty. Safety equipment will be provided, and no prior qualifications are required. You will work approximately 4 to 5 hours per day.

Accomodation and food

Accommodation will be in one or two-person tents at the René Roux sports complex, where you will have exclusive access to the locker rooms for showers. You must bring your warm sleeping bag and a pillow; we provide inflatable mattresses. Food will be provided for all meals, with a budget managed collectively by the group and the facilitators. In turn, you will prepare meals, prioritizing local resources and respecting everyone's dietary regimes (hot and cold dishes, vegetarian, and vegan).

Location and leisure

On the Île d'Oléron, you can enjoy many water activities, such as fishing and surfing with local clubs. The beach, bike rides along the coast, beach volleyball, and other pleasures await you. You can also visit cities like La Rochelle and Rochefort. Activities and outings will be organized with the local population and especially with youth organisations. Leisure time will encourage meeting the locals who are eagerly awaiting you!

Project hosted by

Dive into the history of the Île d'Oléron by participating in the renovation of a 16th-century seigneurial estate! Every stone has a story to tell. Just outside the town, you'll find the grand estate of La Cailletière, owned by the commune since 2008. In the 16th century, it was a seigneurial residence consisting of a large manor house with several rooms on the ground floor and first floors, a bordier's dwelling (laborer’s house), and included wine cellars, distilleries, livestock and poultry parks. The commune of Dolus d'Oléron aims to open this space to the public and wishes to add an international dimension by hosting this project with La Maison des Bateleurs.

Directions to meeting point

You have an appointment at the René Roux sports complex (Iléo stop, accessible with the summer shuttle) on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at 5 pm. Take the bus (line 155) to the Île d'Oléron, then one of the summer shuttles will take you to the "Iléo" stop. The final route and schedules will be communicated as soon as we know both in the roadmap and the WhatsApp group dedicated to this trip.

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