MOUNTAIN MAKERS FOR A GREENER TOMORROW

CODE: CONCF- 6903

Project and work :

Looking for an adventure in the heart of the Alps? Join a committed project in Valloire! This summer, experience something unique and participate in an international volunteer camp in one of the most beautiful locations in Savoie. In collaboration with Concordia and the municipality of Valloire, engage in a project that promotes solidarity, environment, and local heritage.

Contribute to the improvement of the environment by working on projects that benefit both residents and tourists. This camp is part of a broader ecological transition and sustainable development initiative led by the municipality and its partners. Supervised by professionals, you will learn eco-friendly development techniques and use materials suited to the site’s conditions.

This is also an opportunity to share moments with a team from around the world in an exceptional natural setting. No specific skills are required - only motivation and a willingness to contribute to a meaningful project. Ready to take on the challenge?

Accommodation and meals:

You will stay in individual tents at a campsite in Valloire, with access to restrooms and showers. The tents will be provided by Concordia. The municipality will provide a section of the community hall, located less than 200 meters from the campsite, where we will set up a kitchen and communal area for group activities and shelter in case of bad weather.

Participants will take turns organizing communal life (cleaning, activities, etc.) and preparing meals using locally sourced products when possible. We will promote a vegetarian diet with local, seasonal foods, while respecting dietary preferences and introducing regional cuisine (mainly vegetarian meals). Free Wi-Fi is available in certain areas of the resort and at the campsite. The campsite also has a washing machine.

Partner :

Since 2022, Valloire has partnered with Concordia to organize international volunteer camps, based on shared values: solidarity, civic engagement, and heritage preservation. After the success of the first three editions, we are excited to invite you to join this fourth camp, designed as a shared learning experience.

Beyond physical work, you will engage in discussions about the future of mountain resorts in the face of climate change. Valloire is exploring its future development, and along with Concordia, you will contribute to conversations on ecological transition and mountain tourism.

Geographical location and leisure activities :

Located in the Savoie department, Valloire is made up of 17 hamlets in the Maurienne massif, near the Italian border. The village sits at an altitude of 1,400 meters, ideal for mountain lovers. For hikers, marked trails await, including one to Lac des Cerces, offering breathtaking views. Nearby lakes provide swimming areas to cool off during hot summer days.

History buffs can explore landmarks such as the Fort du Télégraphe, a military structure, or the Baroque-style Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption Church, a historical monument.

On the culinary side, don’t miss Savoyard cheeses, a staple of the region. The resort also offers sports and cultural facilities, including a swimming pool, cinema, media library, and local shops.

Special requirements and remarks:

For work sessions, bring sturdy, protective clothing that can withstand dirt and wear. Mountain weather can be unpredictable, so pack appropriate clothing: warm fleece or sweater, hiking shorts/pants, windbreaker, down jacket, and warm socks. Sturdy, ankle-high hiking boots are mandatory. Bring sun protection, including a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.

For accommodation, bring a warm sleeping bag (comfort temperature 5-10°C) and a pillowcase (you can stuff it with clothes). A small backpack for daily activities is also recommended, along with comfortable sneakers and flip-flops for relaxation. Other essentials include a phone charger, water bottle, first-aid kit, and a flashlight. Hiking poles are optional but helpful.

Social activities will be organized based on the group’s interests. Feel free to bring a cultural item (recipe, story, music, etc.) to share with others. A small Bluetooth speaker can be useful for group activities.

If you are under 18, remember to submit your Medical Factsheet and Parental Authorization at least one month before the start of the camp.

Languages :

English, French

Time and directions to the meeting point:

Participants should plan to arrive in central Valloire in the late afternoon, between 5 PM and 6 PM. More information will be provided based on summer timetables. Valloire is accessible by a shuttle service from Saint-Michel-Valloire train station, located 17 km away. It is recommended to book the shuttle in advance. Trains to Saint-Michel-Valloire are available from major cities such as Lyon Part-Dieu, Chambéry-Challes Les Eaux, and Modane.

For those traveling by car, Valloire is one of the rare mountain resorts with two access routes in summer: via the Col du Télégraphe (Maurienne Valley) and the Col du Galibier (Briançonnais).

Train reservations can be made approximately four months in advance through the SNCF website: https://www.sncf-connect.com.

Closest airport:

The nearest airports are Lyon-Saint Exupéry and Chambéry. Trains connect Lyon-Saint Exupéry TGV station to Saint-Michel-Valloire in about 3.5h (with two connections). Chambéry to Saint-Michel-Valloire takes about 1h with no transfers.