ESC volunteer Spain opportunity in the mountains of La Alpujarra (Granada Jan–Mar 2026)
The collective Semillistas is taking applications for 18 January–19 March 2026 with support from the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) and Erasmus+. Their own call says:
“We’re looking for 12 volunteers to help regenerate the Mediterranean forest… Travel, accommodation, food, and a monthly allowance are all covered… Applications open until September 22.”
If you’re 18–30 and want a hands-on ecology experience in rural Spain, this intake is for you.
What the project involves
Across eight weeks, you’ll live simply with a small group near Órgiva, working outdoors and learning together.
Field days include hikes into the hills to sow native seeds directly into the soil, observe water and soil cycles, and follow the progress of restoration plots. Back at base, there are talks and workshops on Mediterranean ecology, community care and open-source biotechnologies. The program also weaves in movement and self-care (yoga, qigong and similar practices) to help the group keep a steady rhythm through winter.
Who can apply & what’s covered
The call is open to people aged 18–30. There are 12 places, with 4 reserved for residents in Spain. Because this is an ESC placement, travel, accommodation, food and a monthly allowance are covered according to program rules. Expect mountain weather, early starts on field days and plenty of time outdoors. Motivation for ecology and community life counts more than prior expertise; basic fitness and willingness to share everyday tasks are essential.
About Semillistas
Semillistas is a grassroots collective based in La Alpujarra (Granada) that experiments with practical ways to regenerate Mediterranean ecosystems.
Their projects combine direct seeding on mountain slopes with simple, open learning spaces (talks, field sessions, and community living) so participants understand not only what to do on the land but why. With support from the European Solidarity Corps/Erasmus+, they host small seasonal teams and share methods that are easy to repeat locally.
More info and contacts:
Dates, location and how to apply 📩
The program runs from 18 January to 19 March 2026 in La Alpujarra, Granada.
Applications close 22 September.
Start with the application form and read the project page for eligibility and ESC registration details:
- Application: forms.gle/F2cwu27FUfrfW6NH8
- Info: semillistas.es/esc-european-volunteering
Organisation: semillistas.es
The original message:
We’re looking for 12 volunteers to help regenerate the Mediterranean forest!
From January 18 to March 19, 2026, in La Alpujarra (Granada, Spain), with the support of the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) and Erasmus+.
👉 If you’re between 18 and 30 years old, this is your chance to join an eco-social regeneration project, focused on land care, community care, rural life, and open-source biotechnology.
🪻 What will we be doing?
- Weekly hikes into the mountains to sow seeds directly into the soil
- Learning about ecology and ecosystem restoration
- Living and sharing in community
- Participating in workshops and talks
- Practicing physical self-care (yoga, qigong…)
🌍 Travel, accommodation, food, and a monthly allowance are all covered.
We have 12 available spots (4 for residents in Spain).
Voluntouring.org promotes opportunities rooted in cultural exchange and mutual learning. Before applying, ask yourself: Is this a fair exchange, or could it replace paid labour? Choose consciously, ask questions, and make sure the experience is respectful, safe, and aligned with your values. Always check visa requirements—hosts cannot provide legal work permits.
