Xodos: All Hands On Deck

CODE: ESDA-TEEN0726

Work:

In the "All Hands on Deck" project in Xodos, young volunteers will become a driving force for the local community through a diverse and dynamic work program. A fundamental part of the workcamp consists of rotating shifts where participants act as essential support for the local Summer School (Escoleta d'Estiu), which hosts around 20 to 25 children from the village and surrounding areas. Here, the teenagers will prepare games and lead multicultural activities, fostering international exchange from an early age. Additionally, participants will have the unique opportunity to learn the "dry stone" technique (a UNESCO World Heritage skill) from a specialist. This ancestral method involves building structures by carefully stacking stones without using any mortar or cement, relying solely on balance and gravity. Finally, the group will carry out basic maintenance tasks to improve the village, such as painting, restoring fences, and creating artistic murals. It is a comprehensive experience that combines social action, the preservation of historical heritage, and the enhancement of public spaces in a stunning natural environment.

Accommodation and food

Participants will be hosted in a house in the village with basic living conditions. The facilities include two bathrooms with showers, a washing machine, and a complete kitchen. Sleeping arrangements consist of several shared rooms equipped with sleeping mats. Additionally, the house features a multipurpose hall for group activities and relaxation.

Regarding food, participants will have the opportunity to cook in groups on a rotating basis, under the guidance of the De Amicitia campleaders. This is a central part of the community experience, allowing everyone to share international recipes and work as a team.

Location and leisure

Xodos is a hidden treasure tucked away in the interior of the province of Castellón, a picturesque village perched on a rocky cliff at an altitude of 1,070 meters. With only 107 inhabitants, this medieval town preserves an authentic charm and absolute tranquility, where life moves at a peaceful pace through its narrow, cobblestone streets. Known as "the balcony of the Maestrat," its skyline is dominated by the remains of its ancient castle and the Church of San Pedro.

Located at the foot of the imposing Penyagolosa Massif, Xodos serves as the perfect gateway for nature lovers. The surroundings are defined by deep ravines and dense forests, offering an ideal refuge with a cool summer climate. It is the perfect place for a total disconnection experience, where the small local community welcomes visitors to a setting where time seems to have stood still.

Project hosted by

De Amicitia is an international NGO dedicated to promoting environmental protection and social inclusion through voluntary service. This project is particularly special as it marks the first collaboration between De Amicitia and the Town Hall of Xodos. Together, they aim to revitalize this rural community by connecting international volunteers with local heritage and needs, fostering a unique intercultural exchange in this pioneering initiative.

Directions to meeting point

Arrival Date: July 2nd, 2026.

Meeting Time: 18:00 (6:00 PM) CET Time. Please ensure you are at the meeting point with plenty of time to spare to avoid missing the transport.

For the return journey, please ensure your flight departs from noon (12:00 PM) onwards. The group will be transported back from Xodos to Valencia Airport in the morning, and booking a flight later in the day will allow enough time for the mountain commute and check-in procedures.

Additional comments

Please note that Xodos is a tiny, remote village of only 107 inhabitants. It is not for those seeking the atmosphere of a big city. Due to its mountain location, reaching Xodos is complicated and public transport is limited. This project is perfect for volunteers who wish to disconnect and enjoy a quiet, authentic rural environment while bonding with the local community and the rest of the international group.