Help save a thousand-year-old fortress and contribute to the creation of an interpretation center dedicated to medieval Normandy!
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Châteauneuf-sur-Epte is a motte castle emblematic of medieval Normandy. It was founded in the late 11th century by William the Red, son of William the Conqueror! Saved from ruin in 2015 by the Héritage Historique association, the castle is gradually coming back to life thanks to everyone's involvement.
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During this workcamp, you'll have the opportunity to discover and practice various traditional building restoration techniques. You'll be working on several elements of our Norman fortress, playing an active part in its preservation and future development!
All volunteers aged 16 and over are welcome. Minors must be accompanied by an adult responsible for them for the duration of the project.
On the program:
- Restoration of a detached residential building with a view to converting it into a "Maison des Mobilités Douces". This project will involve several stages: securing the site, erecting scaffolding, masonry work, roofing, etc.
- Other conservation work may also be planned (upkeep of the château's green spaces, cobbing, woodworking, etc.).
The workcamp will also be an opportunity to take part in preparations for an event celebrating the association's 10th anniversary at the end of August, a key moment to celebrate a decade of commitment to the château!
At Châteauneuf, you'll have the opportunity to discover a variety of traditional know-how and techniques, and make a concrete contribution to the heritage project supported by our association.
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Group living and accommodation
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During the workcamp, you'll be under the responsibility of a team of volunteer supervisors, members of the association, who will pass on their experience and help you discover the history of the château, all in a friendly atmosphere in the heart of the Normandy countryside! You'll also have the chance to meet our goats and sheep, as well as a few tawny owls.
On site, you'll be accommodated in a tent (personal, so remember to bring your own!) set up in the château courtyard. Outdoor showers and dry toilets are at your disposal. Meals will be prepared in shifts, and you'll enjoy evenings by the fire.
Safety shoes and protective gloves (gardening type, preferably leather) are mandatory for the work and can be lent by the association, but it is preferable to have your own.
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During the stay, rest periods (full or half days) will be offered and various activities can be organized to discover the Vexin region and its heritage.
Possible outings: canoe trip, walk on the greenway near the château, discovery of a Neolithic covered walkway, visit to the Guiry-en-Vexin archaeology museum...
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Last year's volunteer achievements
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This summer's work will in part be a continuation of last year's. The 2024 volunteers were involved in archaeological clean-up, restoration work and a crystallization operation on the castle's medieval walls.
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No special skills required.
Arrival at the château on Friday August 1 from 2pm: installation, discovery of the site and rules of life. Departures will be organized on Tuesday August 12 before noon.
You will arrive and leave the château by your own means (see transport and stations below). Car pooling between volunteers can be organized, so please let us know if you'd like to take advantage of this or allow other volunteers to do so!
By public transport from Paris :
- RER A to Cergy Saint-Christophe - then bus line 95-04 - stop Eglise (at Saint-Clair-sur-Epte). The château is then a 35-minute walk from the Eglise stop.
- Train line J - Paris > Gisors
By car :
- The site is accessible by car, and you can park in front at the château address.
Any doubts or questions? Contact the site managers, who will advise you and answer your questions!
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