This workcamp offers young volunteers a meaningful opportunity to learn through action while actively contributing to the local community of Belmonte. Through hands-on social and socio-cultural activities, participants will engage with children, older adults, and vulnerable families, supporting inclusive initiatives that respond to real community needs.

Volunteers will also take part in the daily activities of the Social Shop, helping with the organisation and distribution of essential goods. The project is based on a shared-care and participatory approach, encouraging cooperation, proximity, and mutual support. All activities are supervised by local staff and adapted to each group, creating a welcoming space for intercultural exchange, personal growth, and a deeper understanding of local social realities.

Volunteers will actively support community-based social and socio-cultural initiatives in Belmonte. Their tasks include helping to organize and carry out activities for children, older adults, and vulnerable families, as well as supporting the daily operation of the Social Shop, including sorting and distributing food and essential goods.
Depending on community needs and the profile of the group, volunteers may also contribute to educational, cultural, recreational, or well-being initiatives. All tasks are hands-on, carried out in close cooperation with local staff and community members, and adapted to the abilities and interests of the volunteers.

Participants will be accommodated in local housing facilities or similar structures in Belmonte, ensuring comfort, safety, and appropriate hygiene conditions throughout the stay. Accommodation consists of shared, non-mixed rooms, equipped with beds, storage space, and access to fully functional sanitary facilities with hot water and showers. Regular cleaning services are provided.
Free Wi-Fi is available in common areas and rooms. Common spaces are also available for social interaction, informal meetings, and rest.
Participants will receive three meals per day. Breakfast is organised in a self-service format at the accommodation, offering a variety of local products such as bread, dairy products, fruit, cereals, jams, and beverages. Lunch and dinner are served in a canteen-style setting, promoting group interaction and healthy routines. Meals are mainly based on Mediterranean cuisine, using fresh and local ingredients. Vegetarian, dietary, and special meal options (allergies, intolerances, cultural or health-related needs) are available upon prior request.

The workcamp takes place in Belmonte, a small rural town in central Portugal with approximately 6,000 inhabitants. Located in the district of Castelo Branco, near the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, Belmonte offers a peaceful rural setting with strong community ties.The town is situated at approximately 40.36° N, 7.35° W, about 250 km from Lisbon and 200 km from Porto. Camp activities are carried out in local community and social facilities within the town.

From Lisbon Airport to Oriente Station
Oriente Station is located approximately 4 km from Lisbon Airport and is the main transport hub for national connections.
Metro: Fastest and most convenient option. Take the metro from Terminal 1 to Oriente Station. Travel time: ~10 minutes.
Taxi: Travel time: ~10 minutes. Approximate cost: €5.84.
Bus: Lines 208, 705, and 744 stop at Oriente Station. Travel time is longer than metro or taxi.
From Lisbon / Porto / Faro to Belmonte
The journey by bus from Oriente Station to Belmonte takes approximately 4h30–5h, covering around 355 km, including an average layover of 1 hour. Services are operated by Rede Expressos. Usually, three daily connections are available, though schedules may vary on weekends and holidays.
The train journey from Oriente Station to Belmonte takes approximately 3h30–4h, covering around 355 km, including an average layover of 1 hour. Services are operated by CP – Comboios de Portugal.
The approximate ticket price for young people is around €10 (by bus). Volunteers are advised to check timetables and prices in advance.