Apply Now

Help restore a historic home while experiencing life in Sicily

5.0
(2 reviews)2

The experience

I hope you’re doing well! I’m working on a home renovation in Mussomeli, a beautiful historic town in Sicily. The area is rich in culture, stunning landscapes, and a welcoming community. I’m an Australian filmmaker passionate about cultural exchange and looking for someone with DIY skills (or enthusiasm!) to help restore an old home. In exchange, I offer accommodation, shared meals, and a great experience. Let me know if you’re interested!

What you offer

25 hours of help per week

Painting & Decorating: Help with painting or decorating the property facilities.

Building & Repairing: Help with a wide range of repairs or building.

Additional fee required

Amount: € 30 Per week

Fee pays for: Donation to project

Description: Volunteers contribute 5Euro a day to contribute to food.

What you get

2 days off per week

Private Room: You will have a bed in a private room. In other words, a room just for you.

Shared Dorm: You will have a bed in a shared room, which means you will share the same room with other travelers.

Breakfast: You are entitled to a free breakfast, every day of your stay.

Lunch: You are entitled to a free lunch, every day of your stay.

Dinner: You are entitled to a free dinner, every day of your stay.

Free Laundry: You can use our laundry room freely.

Yoga classes: Take free yoga classes at our place.

Holistic Therapies: You can take part in any of our therapeutic activities for free.

Use our equipped kitchen: Feel free to use our kitchen and make your own delicious food.

Fast Internet Access: High-speed internet for you to work remotely

Dedicated Workspace: Specific space for you to work remotely

Requirements

Intermediate English or Beginner Italian

Over 18 years old

Only hosts solo volunteers (doesn’t accept couples or partners)

What's not included

Flights, Travel Insurance, Internal Transportation and Visa

Program Details

I’m currently in the middle of a home renovation project in Mussomeli-a beautiful, historic town in the heart of Sicily that has become a hub for people restoring old homes. It’s an incredible place to immerse yourself in authentic Sicilian culture, breathtaking landscapes, and a slower, more meaningful way of life.

In exchange, I can offer a room with a comfortable bed and bathroom, full access to a shared kitchen, and welcoming communal spaces like the living and dining rooms. The community here is lively and diverse, with many people from around the world who bring warmth, energy, and a love of good food, BBQs, movie nights, and the occasional trip to the local pub and beach. It’s a fantastic place to connect with people and experience a true sense of belonging.

Activities & Shift

About the Project and How We Work Together

I recently acquired a charming old home in Sicily. It has great character and a beautiful location, but like many old houses, it needs care and upgrades. The work includes plumbing, basic electrical tasks, plastering, carpentry, painting, and fitting kitchens and bathrooms. This is a hands-on, creative project, ideal for someone who enjoys DIY, problem-solving, and learning by doing.

Tasks will be clearly set and are expected to be completed. What matters most is initiative. I’m looking for people who can see what needs doing and step in without needing to be watched or reminded. Taking initiative is genuinely appreciated.

No one is expected to know everything. If you’re unsure how to do something, just ask. We work things out together, focus on solutions, and figure out how to get things done.

The project lasts around one to two months. We usually work five to six hours a day, five days a week. Life in Sicily moves at its own pace. Long lunches are part of the culture here, with many places in Mussomeli closed between 1:30 and 4:30 pm. Some days we work through this time for freer evenings, other days we rest and enjoy the break.

If there is no renovation work on a given day, there is always house work to do, such as cleaning, washing, or general upkeep. Everyone contributes.

This project is about more than renovating a house. It’s about creating a shared space through care, creativity, and effort. The aim is to complete the main work by May or June so the house can be enjoyed in summer, while knowing there is always something to improve year round.

If you enjoy working with your hands, taking responsibility, learning new skills, and living at a slower, intentional rhythm, this can be a rewarding experience. :)

Rules

House Rules for Volunteers

Welcome, and thank you for being here. These simple guidelines help make the house comfortable and respectful for everyone staying.

• Good manners and respectful attitudes are welcomed and appreciated at all times.
• Please be considerate of shared spaces and other guests.
• Smoking is allowed outside only.
• Wine or alcohol is fine in moderation, as long as it does not affect the wellbeing or comfort of others.
• Quiet hours apply later at night. Please keep noise low so everyone can rest.
• Clean up after yourself, especially in shared areas like the kitchen.
• Please do not leave dishes in the sink overnight. Wash, dry, and put them away when you are done.
• Keep shared spaces tidy and leave them as you would like to find them.

These rules are simply about mutual respect and creating a calm, pleasant environment for everyone. Thank you for your cooperation and for being part of the house.