The municipality of La Biolle is a committed partner, collaborating with Concordia for the third year on an interculturality-focused project. Together, you will take part in a project that allows local youth to work alongside international volunteers, fostering intercultural exchange and civic engagement in a public-interest initiative. This partnership, built on shared values of inclusion, civic involvement, and intercultural dialogue, has been strengthened over time by a mutual interest in local development and global openness.

This project aims to create pleasant walking areas for residents, while preserving the environment and local heritage.
Your mission? To help build wooden steps and clear vegetation on the municipality's hiking trails, in collaboration with the La Biolle Rando association. Supervised by a technical leader, you will learn useful skills while actively contributing to local life. This is a unique opportunity to learn, share and leave your mark on a project that benefits everyone. So, are you ready to roll up your sleeves and enjoy an enriching human experience?

You will be accommodated in individual tents set up in the courtyard of La Biolle’s elementary school. Concordia will provide you with a camping mattress, but you can bring an extra one if you want more comfort. Don't forget to bring a sleeping bag suitable for temperatures around 10°C, as nights in the mountains can be chilly. Nearby, the gymnasium will be accessible for the use of sanitary facilities and showers. This location will also serve as a shelter in case of adverse weather conditions or extreme heat. For meal preparation and dining, the multipurpose hall, spacious and well-equipped, will be available. A supermarket is located in front of the hall, making food supply easy. Additionally, every Friday evening, a local farmers’ market takes place, providing an opportunity to discover and purchase fresh and seasonal products. Collective life will be organized around the active participation of each member: daily tasks such as cleaning, activities, and meal preparation will be shared in rotation. We will prioritize a vegetarian diet, made from local and seasonal products, while respecting specific dietary needs and promoting the discovery of local cuisine. A laundromat is located about 1 km from the school, with costs covered by the participants. Wi-Fi connectivity is not guaranteed on-site, so we recommend arranging a personal solution if needed.

La Biolle is a charming and dynamic village, situated in Savoie. The project takes place in the heart of a region rich in heritage and traditions, just 8 km from Aix-les-Bains, 25 km from Chambéry, and 30 km from Annecy—a geographical setting that attracts visitors all year round. Near the work site, you will be surrounded by exceptional natural landscapes. Numerous hiking trails will allow you to explore the spectacular panoramas of the Bauges Massif and observe a variety of bird species in the wetlands. Leisure activities will be organized to immerse you in local life: kayaking or swimming outings at Lake Bourget, guided tours to discover the history and traditions of the region, all coordinated by your leaders in collaboration with local partners. These activities will also be designed with input from the young participants, ensuring a participatory experience tailored to their interests. This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to combine civic engagement, cultural discovery, and outdoor activities in an authentic and welcoming setting.

Please make sure that you are in good physical shape, as this workcamp may involve a lot of walking.

Please fill the Parental Agreement and the Medical Fact Sheet as soon as possible (at least 3 weeks before the beginning of the workcamp).

The vaccines proofs (a note from the doctor or a copy of the vaccines) is MANDATORY, see list in the Medical Fact Sheet. Unvaccinated volunteers will not be accepted.

Foreigners belonging to the European Union must bring with them a personal EHIC (European Health Insurance Card), and everybody must, in any case, bring their insurance certificate. If health issues arise on the project, volunteers will have to pay for them, and will then be reimbursed once back in their home country.

Arrival is scheduled for late afternoon at Aix-les-Bains train station. From there, the 419 bus line, operated by Ondéa Grand Lac, provides a 15-minute journey to La Biolle, with a stop at “Fruitières Stade.” Bus schedules vary depending on the day and season, with reduced frequency in the evenings and on weekends. It is recommended to check connections in advance on the official Ondéa Grand Lac website (https://www.ondeagrandlac.fr). From Paris, the fastest way is by TGV to Aix-les-Bains (about 3h30), followed by bus 419. From Lyon, a TER connects Lyon-Part-Dieu station to Aix-les-Bains in approximately 1h30, followed by the same bus. From Marseille, a direct TGV reaches Aix-les-Bains in about 3h30 before taking the bus. If you are unable to take the bus, our leaders can organize a transfer from Aix-les-Bains train station to ensure you arrive safely in La Biolle. Be sure to book your train tickets in advance on the SNCF website (https://www.sncf-connect.com) to plan your journey smoothly.

If possible, please consider using low-carbon transportation (train and bus rather than airplane) for a sustainable international workcamp.