Rural life and volunteer opportunities in Asturias, Spain

In Asturias, Spain, a resident named Tere lives in an abandoned village that has seen its last neighbors depart since 1991. Having moved there at age three to live with her grandmother, Tere now lives a self-sufficient life, rescuing dogs and maintaining a garden. She utilizes traditional storage methods, such as a hórreo, to preserve her harvests and continues to use local spelt flour for bread.

In a separate development in Pola de Allande, a private residence named Polagrino is seeking volunteers to serve as hosts for pilgrims on the Camino Primitivo. In exchange for housing and three meals a day, volunteers are expected to work approximately 25 hours per week, though some reports suggest actual daily tasks may average between three and five hours. Responsibilities include cleaning, laundry, and assisting travelers. The position is open to individuals over 18 who speak English or Spanish.