Our family has lived and worked on this land for over 35 years. During this time, we transitioned from a large scale historic plantation to an ecotourism site, retreat center, and organic farm. We are now seeking responsible, motivated, and experienced individuals to spend a few months or more helping us become more sustainable and self-sufficient. Our goal is to convert to solar energy, grow more of our own food, and deepen our practice of the 6 R’s. We are looking primarily for individuals who have an interest in and some experience with organic farming, permaculture, and other sustainable tropical farming methods. We also need help with overall maintenance, building, and setting up our solar energy system. Finally, we are also open to starting a small homeschooling group with our 6-year-old. Families are welcome! We have no set affiliation or ideology, we just feel that now is the time for communities to improve their quality of life while using fewer resources, and we want to lead by example. We are hoping that tourism can still supplement what we do, but we want to make a shift towards having more permanent residents stay in our 6 separate accommodations. Our 80-acre property is absolutely beautiful and even includes a small river and two beaches! It’s the perfect place for retirees, artists, writers, worldschoolers, and those who can work remotely. We do not require a long term commitment. An initial period of 3-6 months would be ideal, with the possibility to extend. At this time, we cannot offer a strict work exchange, however, we can offer affordable rent and the option to work in exchange for meals. Overall, if you are frugal and accustomed to a simple lifestyle, your expenses could be kept to a minimum. The island has a lot to offer, and public transportation is inexpensive. We have a large network of people and you will quickly feel at home in St. Lucia and possibly discover new opportunities for collaboration.
Membership & Visitors
- Current members: 3
- Open to new members
- Open to visitors
Please first read our website, blog, social profiles, and public reviews. If you are interested in collaborating with us or visiting us for any length of time, please send us an email with your background, interests, and expectations, as well as a few photos. Please note that we are not affiliated with any ideology or organization. We are just hard-working individuals who care about the planet and about protecting and maintaining properties such as Balenbouche Estate for future generations.
Hello and greetings… I am a near y neighbor, who has recently repatriated with a wealth of love and knowledge of Permaculture. I completed a Permaculture Design Certification (PDC) course less than a year ago. I am eager to exchange on the subject… Reading your profile narrative has sparked my interest to join your community. I am a stone throw away…I would love to talk a walk over and have a chat. I can meet at your convenience… I am building my own Permaculture Homestead near the Piaye River.
Hello Claude, that is exciting! Please do come over, we look forward to meeting you 🙂
I’m interested in knowing more about this. I could stay for a few months next winter. I’m a gardener and cook.