More time and less money? Fancy an exchange?

  • If you have a skill and would like to exchange some work for a holiday there is always a list of jobs to do. Please contact me to discuss.

  • From general painting to adding art to the 120 story, if you’d like to exchange art for a holiday, get in touch.

Work-a-way exchange is generally exchanged on a 10hrs over a 7 night stay or pro-rata basis if staying fewer nights.

If you can offer help with bigger projects a part paid /part exchange can be discussed.

Hazel was an incredibly fair host; the workload was really well balanced and she was very clear with the tasks she wanted completed. Despite not being at the property, her communication was excellent with multiple zoom calls to discuss plans or talk through ideas. She was nearly always available via the phone when I had questions, and I felt very supported the entire way through.

As Hazel wasn’t at the property, this is definitely a workaway for folks who are happy working alone and use lots of their own initiative. I loved the freedom of waking up and choosing what tasks I felt drawn to on that day. There was a lot of encouragement to be a part of making decisions - i.e what colour to paint entire walls, where to hang pictures, etc, so that really contributed to feeling included in the creative process and taking pride in the work being done! The work itself was really varied with painting, building furniture, dump runs, gardening. I even built a living roof on top of a shed! The sun was setting behind the mountains and the first swallows of the year flitting about in the hazy afternoon - its was a beautiful and memorable moment I’ll always hold onto :)

I shared my stay with a wonderful woman who I have since become great friends - a wonderful added bonus to the whole experience! Hazel was brilliant at putting us in touch before to ensure we were both comfortable sharing the house throughout.

Blaenau Ffestiniog itself is stunning with it’s extraordinary mountain views - you’re likely to get lost in staring out of the windows for hours at a time...! Most days started with waking with the sun and hiking up the slate mountains overlooking Blaenau - there are loads of great routes that are walking distance from the house. Cwmorthin quarry is a personal favourite of mine! If you’re into walking, there are loads of ordinance survey maps in the house. There is also a beautiful coastline the the West; Black Rock Sands is perfect for some dips in the ocean! I had never been to North Wales before, but she has absolutely stolen my heart.

Lily - work-a-way 2021