Volunteering opportunity in the Swedish countryside

The property is located between Malung and Hagfors. You will get an exact Google Maps pin when you are booked in. But as a heads-up, there are no grocery stores around and we live deep in the forest. 

Like deep deep in the forest so be prepared to go far away from civilization. 

Either you take your own car/van or we pick you up from the Hagfors bus-station or Malung bus-station. If you are arriving the same day as another volunteer it’s possible to arrange a ride share. 

The best time to arrive to Malung is at Monday around 11, then you have an hour to maybe get some snacks and beer/wine for the weeks ahead, as we might not go to town for a while. 

At 12 on Mondays and Thursdays there is a communal minivan leaving from central Malung that will drop you off at the property. 

We have plenty of things that need fixing on the property. Usually, we start the day by going over what needs to be done and then we divide the tasks between us depending on what you like to do the most. 
It can be everything from clearing the forest, doing dishes, building a tiny house, organizing a tool shed, building a bench, painting a shed, putting seeds in the garden, making a garden bed, picking berries or taking the car to town for some shopping. 

NOT AT ALL! We see this as an exchange and hopefully, we can learn something from you and we can teach you something. We have plenty of power tools if you are interested in learning how to use them you are more than welcome. 

We will make up tasks that fit your experience and ensure that you feel comfortable with the task you get. 

All you need is an “I can learn” attityde  ❤️

We offer two types of volunteer accommodations. The first is a room designed for couples, featuring a double bed. The second is a larger room divided by curtains into three smaller, private spaces.

Each room is equipped with a dresser, lamp, chair, bed, and bedding.

Please note that this is a renovation property, so while the accommodations are not luxurious, they are comfortable and functional. Each space provides a standard bed and curtains for privacy.

We can host up to 5 people and we have realized the best amount of people is between 4-6 volunteers. 

But we love people so if someone is traveling through in a van we always let them park up on the property. We also let people pitch tents wherever they want to pitch a tent. 

We all pitch in with cooking, cleaning, and dishwashing. This is separate from the 25 volunteer hours per week, as it’s part of daily life.

We provide all the food. You have full access to the kitchen for any meals. Breakfast is on your own, but we cook lunch and dinner together. If you have specific dietary needs or just prefer to cook for yourself, go right ahead. Our pantry is open to you.

While we mostly cook vegan, we do have meat in the house. We get a lot of our food through dumpster diving to reduce waste. If you’re curious about this or want to try it, you’re welcome to join in. Our meals are healthy, with lots of veggies and beans. Feel free to bring and cook your own meat or other specific foods if you like.

So I am going to be completely honest with you. We love to drink and party. We love to have a glass of wine or a cocktail at the end of the day. We do not provide any alcohol for you so you have to bring your own. 

If you also like to have a few glasses at the end of the day make sure to budget and bring that with you. We are far from civilization (35/45 minute drive) and you won’t be able to pop to the shop during your time at the property. (if you do not have your own car then)

From my experience from the previous summer – if you want to drink beer budget how many you drink per day and bring that! 

Systembolaget:

• Systembolaget holds a monopoly on alcohol sales in Sweden, making it relatively expensive. If you’re passing through Germany on your way here, it’s a good idea to stock up on alcohol.

Food:

• Grocery items can be more expensive in Sweden. If you’re traveling for an extended period and arriving by car or van, consider stocking up on food. Also, I’m happy to teach you how to dumpster dive in a way that’s respectful to the stores, environment, and other divers.

Mosquitos:

• We have a significant number of mosquitos, especially during summer nights. Some nights are manageable, but there can be swarms on others. Be sure to bring long sleeves, pants, and mosquito repellent.

Weather in Dalarna:

• May: The average temperature ranges from 5°C to 15°C. It’s a month with a mix of spring warmth and occasional cold snaps.
• June: Expect average temperatures between 10°C and 20°C. The days are longer, and nature is in full bloom.
• July: This is typically the warmest month, with averages from 12°C to 22°C. Ideal for outdoor activities.
• August: Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C, with a gradual transition to cooler autumn weather.

Wild Camping:

• In Sweden, “every man’s right” (Allemansrätten) generally allows wild camping with a ten, as long as you respect nature and stay no more than a couple of days in one spot.
• Avoid camping in nature reserves, national parks, or near buildings. Leave no trace behind.
• Always park in designated areas. Off-road driving is not permitted under the “terrängkörningslagen” law, except for agriculture or forestry purposes.

Additional Tips:

• Language: Most Swedes are fully fluent in English. 
• Cultural: Swedes value personal space and environmental responsibility. 
• Transportation: Public transport is reliable, but in remote areas like ours, having a car can be advantageous.

Join us for our dedicated family weeks this summer at Freeside Forest. Before you decide, it’s important to know that our property is a work in progress, which means it’s more about outdoor living and less about indoor comforts. If you are raising little wildlings this place is for you and your family. We have aset 2 week period that we can accomodate families – 24th June to 7th July

Accommodations and Living Conditions:

• We offer one family room, suitable for a family stay. It’s basic – think of it more as a dormitory. It’s not fancy in any way but it’s on the second floor so it has a bit more privacy and a doubble bed as well as mattresses. 
• The property is quite rustic and can be a bit dirty, as most of our activities and daily life happen outdoors.
• There’s no indoor hot water shower. But we can always fill a bucket with warm water for baths. 
• If you have a van, you’re welcome to bring it for additional personal space or if you want to live in it. 

Meals and Dietary Needs:

• We provide meals, but we ask you to manage any special dietary needs for your children.

Outdoor Adventure:

• Our property is great for families who love the outdoors. There’s plenty of space for kids to play and explore.
• Weather permitting, we enjoy regular trips to the nearby lake.

If your family enjoys outdoor adventures and doesn’t mind a less polished living space, you are more than welcome. 

These weeks my niece will be with me – she is 7 years old so we will already have some kids to play with if they are the same age.