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25 May 2026
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Description
Looking for 1 volunteer from the 15th of July – clearing land, fence building with rocks, planting fruit trees & vegetables, land shaping
***Looking for 2 volunteers from the 15th of August - land cleaning & stone collection, vegetables and almonds harvest, general maintenance & improvements***
***Looking for 2 volunteers from the 15th of September till the 10th of November
olive harvest, planting winter vegetables, pruning & land care ***
My name is Riccardo, I’m Italian, born and raised in Verona. At some point, I decided to change rhythm and direction in life to reconnect with the countryside and cultivate my deep passion for plants and nature 🌿
In the past I have travelled with Workaway too, so I know how beautiful it is to stay with local people and share knowledge and emotions.
After many years of traveling, exploring, and working in different places, I felt the need to slow down… so I bought this beautiful piece of land in Sicily, between the sea and the mountains ⛰️
This project is still at the very beginning — a blank canvas full of potential. The land is about 15,000 square meters, located in the countryside just 10 minutes from Avola, 20 minutes from Noto, 30 minutes from Siracusa, close to Vendicari nature reserve and Cavagrande lakes, and about 1 hour from Catania.
We are at around 120 meters above sea level, which gives us an amazing view: on one side the sea, on the other the mountains. Sunrises and sunsets here are something special 🌅 At the moment, this is mainly a one-person project — me, Riccardo 🙂
I’m fully involved in developing the land and taking care of everything, but the project really comes alive when volunteers are here. It becomes a shared experience rather than just a place.
From time to time, friends might visit, and you may meet locals or other travelers passing by. The atmosphere is informal and open — sometimes quiet and introspective, sometimes social and lively, depending on who’s around.
Even though it’s a simple setup, I try to create a space where people can feel comfortable, welcome, and free to be themselves.
If you enjoy meeting new people but also appreciate your own space when needed, you’ll probably feel at home here.
What I truly love about this land is the feeling of space, freedom, and connection with nature. It’s a place where you can slow down naturally, without forcing it. No noise, no stress — just wind, birds, and the rhythm of the countryside.
Being here, surrounded by almond and olive trees, with the sea on one side and the mountains on the other, gives a sense of balance that’s hard to explain until you experience it.
At the same time you’re never far from lively social moments, evenings out, and the vibrant atmosphere of beautiful cities like Siracusa and Noto, where you can enjoy good food, music, and a bit of fun at night.
Within a short drive you can reach beautiful places like Avola, Noto, and Siracusa — full of history, culture, and amazing food. The beaches are some of the best in Sicily, with clear blue water and wild landscapes, and places like Vendicari and Cavagrande are perfect if you love nature, hiking, or just exploring.
Life here is simple but never boring. You can spend a day working on the land, then go for a swim in the sea, have a good meal, and enjoy the evening under the stars. It’s a kind of balance that many people are looking for.
I think you’ll love this place if you enjoy:
- Being outdoors and close to nature
- Simple, authentic experiences
- Beautiful landscapes and good food
- A relaxed and friendly atmosphere
Types of help and learning opportunities
Language practice
Gardening
DIY and building projects
General Maintenance
Interests
Technology
Sustainability
Farming
Plant care
Gardening
Cooking & food
Mountain
Hiking
Camping
Beach
Adventure sports
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
Life here naturally creates moments of connection. Even if the place is simple and surrounded by nature, it doesn’t mean it’s isolated — actually, it’s a great balance between quiet countryside and social experiences.
We’ll share daily moments like cooking, eating together, working on small projects, or just relaxing after a day outside. Sometimes it’s as simple as sitting under the sky with a drink, talking about life, travels, and ideas.
I also enjoy going out from time to time — exploring nearby towns like Avola, Noto, and Siracusa, where you can experience real Sicilian life, local markets, bars, and restaurants. I’m always happy to bring you along, show you around, or go for a beach day together 🌊
There are also beautiful natural spots nearby like Vendicari Nature Reserve and Cavagrande del Cassibile, perfect for hiking, swimming, or just enjoying untouched landscapes.
This project is still growing, and I’m learning every day — but that also means there’s a lot to share in a very practical, hands-on way.
I can teach you:
- Basics of working with the land (planting, caring for trees, simple gardening) 🌱
- How to work with natural materials like stone (for fences and structures)
- Simple countryside skills and problem-solving
- How to live more simply and adapt to outdoor life
I also love cooking, so we can share meals and recipes — a mix of Italian traditions and whatever inspiration comes in the moment 🍝
Beyond practical skills, I can share my experience of changing lifestyle, traveling, and starting a project from zero. It’s not about being an expert, but about learning by doing.
For me, hosting is not just about getting help — it’s about exchange.
I’m really curious about people, cultures, and different ways of seeing life. Every person who comes brings something new, even in small ways.
I’d love to:
- Learn about your culture, habits, and perspectives
- Discover new recipes, ideas, and ways of doing things
- Hear your travel stories and life experiences
- See the project through fresh eyes and new ideas
I think sharing a space like this creates a relaxed and genuine atmosphere. It’s not just about volunteering — it’s about spending some time together, exchanging experiences, and enjoying daily life in a simple way.
Help
Main activities include:
- Removing rocks from the land
- Building natural fences using stones
- Planting fruit trees, olive trees, and vegetables
- Taking care of chickens 🐔
- Keeping the land clean and organized
There is always something to do, but there is no pressure. This is not a stressful project — the idea is to collaborate, enjoy the process, and respect the place.
Every small help is appreciated 🙏
Life here is simple and connected to nature.
There’s no strict routine — we organize together depending on weather, energy, and priorities.
The most important things I ask are:
- Respect the place
- Keep shared spaces clean
- Be collaborative and positive
Work is usually a few hours per day, leaving plenty of time to relax, explore, go to the beach, or just enjoy the silence.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Italian: Fluent
Spanish: Beginner
Accommodation
The land already has almond trees and olive trees, and the goal is to slowly develop it into a natural, productive, and peaceful place.
There is:
- Drinkable groundwater from a 100m deep well 💧
- Electricity ⚡
- A simple outdoor kitchen and fridge
- Toilet
- Shower
It’s not a luxury place — it’s simple, real countryside life.
I can provide:
- A peaceful place in nature 🌿
- Basic facilities for camping (tent for two people, blanket, pillow and sleeping mat)
- A friendly and relaxed environment
- The chance to learn, share, and experience simple countryside life 🌾
This part of Sicily is truly amazing — crystal clear beaches, baroque towns, nature reserves, and great food everywhere 😄
Cooking:
- You are free to cook your own meals or we can prepare meals together.
The kitchen is equipped with
- camping stove
- fridge
Laundry:
I am planning to get a washing machine, anyway there is a laundry in town if needed.
What else ...
This is not just about work — it’s about sharing time, energy, and creating something meaningful together.
If you’re looking for a simple life, connection with nature, and a genuine human experience… you might feel good here. During your time off you can visit places nearby. We are 10 minutes drive from Avola, 20 minutes from Noto, 30 minutes from Siracusa/Ortigia. You can go to some of the best beaches in Sicily like Vendicari nature reserve, San Lorenzo, Calamosche, Oasi del Gelsomineto, and Cavagrande lakes. You can use my bikes for free to reach the nearby beaches — it’s about a 25-minute ride. You can also use them to get to the bus or train station, leave the bike there, and easily explore nearby places.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
This host has indicated that they love having digital nomads stay.
Space for parking camper vans
This host can provide space for campervans.
Can possibly accept pets
This host has said they are willing to accept those travelling with a pet.
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
My animals / pets
Simba
Simba is a very smart dog.
He is the guardian of the camping.
Chickens
