Kicking Off My Workaway Adventure: Dogs, Cats, Chickens & a Dash of Peace

On the 20th of November, I’ll be starting my two-month Workaway assignment — and honestly, I’m so ready for it. My main role? Looking after a small (…ish) crew: six dogs, twelve cats, and fourteen chickens. Easy! Well… until you remember that Marianthi, the lovely human behind this retreat, is basically the local animal-rescue hotline. Strays get placed over the fence like surprise deliveries, so I’ll be caring for whoever’s already there plus any furry newcomers waiting to be rehomed. Never a dull moment.

The retreat itself is primarily vegetarian, with the occasional appearance of happy eggs and fish. I’m actually excited for a consistent, healthy diet again — my meals over the past couple of months have been… let’s call them “creative survival cuisine.” Think cheese, crackers, pâté, hard-boiled eggs, and veggies, with the odd restaurant meal to prove I’m still a functioning adult.

There’s usually a whole range of holistic practices happening here, but the retreat is closed for winter. Still, if you’re curious about what goes on in the warmer months, here’s the link to what they normally offer:

On December 1st, a German lady will join for a three-month stay. From what I understand, she’ll be looking after the kitchen and the house — while I wrangle the four-legged and feathered crowd. Sounds like a good balance to me!

Let the adventure begin.