- About SEEDS
- Volunteer in Iceland
- Langar þig til útlanda?
- Vilt þú fá sjálfboðaliða?
The work is done using ancient tools and elements keeping the work with the same style and final details as the turf houses were originally constructed.
We will work with a team of professionals and experts and will be thought the techniques as the methods used in the old times.
The concept uses Icelandic, natural and local materials for the turf walls and roofs, as in the interior of the houses, where turf, soil, rocks and wood are used.
There is a strong aspect of learning during the working process and on the social importance of the work. Volunteers will receive practical lessons in turf cutting and turf-walling as in stone construction; which are the traditional Icelandic crafts, then to produce turf material and use these skills for the work on the turf, stone walls and other constructions. We will work closely with one of few Icelandic specialists on turf constructions. Additional tasks depending on the current needs might also appear during the workcamp.
We will help to preserve the local cultural heritage, learn the working techniques, get a significant practical experience and last but not least we will explore the surrounding of the location and make some short excursions through the south of Iceland.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be lodged in a house, sleeping on mattresses on the floor. Please bring your own sleeping bag. There will be an opportunity to sleep for at least some nights in the traditional turf houses.
Within the facilities volunteers will have a kitchen to cater themselves. Food will be provided and meals will be then prepared/cooked by volunteers.
LOCATION: We will stay in the south of Iceland, around 70 km from the capital Reykjav?k. The place consists of few typical traditional farmhouses in the South-Icelandic style. Very few similar farmhouses remain in the country and these ones we will be staying and working in, are the last in the district. A dedicated effort has been made to develop and conserve the place as the farmhouse tradition embodies an important element of Icelandic history and the Icelandic way of life over centuries.
The largest town in the district is Selfoss, with population of around 6000. The workcamp site is located about 15 km from Selfoss, in an old isolated farm, away from other towns or villages.
We will be able to explore and enjoy the south Icelandic lowland, which is made out of sand and rock sediments delivered by the river ?j?rs? during the last centuries. The land is covered mostly by green grass and the closeness of the ocean can be felt in the air. The Southern district is known by its geothermal activity which helped to develop important greenhouse agriculture.
LANGUAGE: English will be the language in the camp, but high proficiency is not a requirement.
TERMINAL: Closest International Airports: Keflav?k /Reykjav?k (KEF), the closest bus stop is in Selfoss. SEEDS organises the ?minibus option?, a shared transport from Reykjav?k to the camps and vice-versa, which apart from being cheaper and more convenient, allows volunteers to meet fellow campers and have a relaxed trip, while stopping on the way for interesting and tourist sites.
SPECIAL REMARKS / EXTRAS: Participation fee EUR 90,- (Euros). Excursions and other free time activities will be arranged by the local contacts and SEEDS.
AGE: 18+
