The project
For centuries, paths and dry-stone walls criss-crossed the valley. Now the local community need your help to breathe new life into this historic landscape and help transform the area into a living museum that will take visitors on a walk through Spanish history, from the civil war to the Bronze Age.
Volunteers will work with experts from the host organisation, COCAT and Balmes Blancs, to preserve and restore the ancient landscapes of the Sirab Valley. Volunteering activities run from 8:30 - 14:00, with a mid-morning break and snack. This leaves plenty of time in the afternoon for free time and leisure activities.
Your group will work together as a team to keep the valley’s living heritage alive. Through hands-on work, volunteers will connect with the Pyrenees and learn more about the local culture. In parallel, environmental activities will focus on the flora and fauna of the area.
Tasks will be hands-on and may be a little strenuous at times, although the enjoyment and capability of the group will be taken into account, and activities will be adjusted accordingly. No specific prior knowledge or skills are needed, and full instructions and training will be provided.
A detailed itinerary of activities will be provided before departure, following consultation with the group and based on the needs of the project at the time, but volunteer activities are likely to include:
Refreshing and repainting trail markings and signs
Restoring worn cobbled sections
Keeping paths safe and clear by cutting back grass, bushes and other vegetation
Repairing ancient dry-stone walls that have stood for centuries
Accommodation & food
You have multiple options for accommodation and can choose between tents or the Refugi Vall de Siard bunk house, which sleeps 12 in a large shared room and separate bedrooms for adults/leaders. At the campsite, the facilities are basic with a dry composting toilet and a cold shower, although you can arrange to use the hot showers at the bunk house.
Full board and self-catering options are available too, although we’d recommend full board unless you have your own transport.
Location & leisure
People have been living in Siard Valley for thousands of years, so there’s plenty to do in your free time.
Free-time activities and group
excursions include:
A visit to the Civil War bunkers in the Coll de Sant Joan, ~ 4 km away.
A guided visit to the medieval town of Despoblat de Santa Creu de Llagunes.
Rafting and canyoneering.
Astronomical observation to explore the night sky with telescopes.
Multiple hiking routes around the valley, to enjoy the very paths and trails you are helping to restore.
Project host
The project is organised by the Catalan volunteering organisation, COCAT, and Balmes Blancs, which works to both protect the Catalan landscape while sustainably opening it up to visitors.
COCAT and Balmes Blancs have been working in the Sirab Valley since 2013 to restore the area and promote sustainable tourism.
Interested?
Thinking about joining this project but not sure if it’s right for you? Or maybe a parent looking for more details?
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