Pillapalu Forest Retreat

We are a Retreat where business and groups stay but we also make a wide range of functional mushroom extract products.
We try to set an example how forest owners can produce sustainable revenue without cutting down trees.

We are super friendly if you are :) We have traveled all over the world and so understand the needs of travelers and volunteers. We are a small family business, including Cookie & Poppy (the dogs), plus some friends help out now and then.

All experiences

Artist - Painter / Sculptor (Nature theme)

Arts

Pillapalu, Estonia

General helper in Estonia

Painting & Decorating Building & Repairing Gardening

Pillapalu, Estonia

Reviews

4.5
(43 reviews)43

Staff & Host

4.5

Hours & Tasks

5.0

Hostel

4.5

Learning & Fun

4.5

United States

3

The place is absolutely breathtaking & worth a visit however the tasks were not clear. The hours are clear before hand but the place has a relaxed atmosphere. Two people run this place and tend to have miscommunications with volunteers. I enjoyed my time but it was cut short due to a misunderstanding that was not handled appropriately. Bridgette is incredible but her husband Robin was unprofessional & rude to my co-volunteer. If communication was fixed then it would be the perfect place to work. Sad it didn't work as expected :/

6 months ago

Robin replied

Thankyou for your opinion, Betsy.
Yes, perhaps tasks could be clearer. In such cases it's normal just to check and ask for clarity rather than assume something and make (serious) mistakes.
As you well remember, you and your co-volunteer took on a job you were NOT given or asked to do. That job damaged our property and cost us more than 250 euros.
It was only fair to ask for clarification on how that mistake happened.
Instead of apologizing or explaining anything, you and your co-volunteer decided to pack your bags and secretly leave without even saying goodbye (or cleaning your rooms). In our opinion, that is rather rude and insulting to the hosts who have opened their home to you and offered hospitality, good food etc
As a piece of advice for the future - when you volunteer to help at someone's place/ home try to follow their rules.

United Kingdom

5

This was my perfect work exchange. Robin and Birgit make you feel so welcome at their home and into their daily lives. My room was comfy and warm. They let me choose where in the house i wanted to paint and were really encouraging for whatever i wanted to do, plus they gave me lots of time to get inspiration. There were other things to help out with, like garden bits and their business, which was interesting to learn from. They also gave opportunities to go on walks to show you more of the area, and gave me time to explore in Tallinn on my own. Couldn't recommend enough to other artists!

11 months ago

Italy

5

This was my second time volunteering with Worldpackers, and it was a fantastic experience. Robin and Birgit are wonderful people with lots of stories and experience to share. They even took the time to show us around and do some fun activities. We also got to meet other workers who were all amazing and passionate about their work.
The place is incredible, surrounded by nature and a deep sense of peace and calm.
The task weren’t hard, we mainly did cleaning, walked their two adorable dogs, did some labeling and worked in the garden.
Thank you again for the wonderful experience <3

almost 1 year ago

Robin replied

Thanks Chiara, some people would have found the work hard but not you...because you are a hard worker :) Great job and thanks and come back one day! All the best

Mexico

5

It was an amazing volunteering experience. I was able to relax and get inspiration from the forest to do beautiful art. Birgit and Robin are awesome hosts. This has been the first volunteering experience where I have felt like home. It really felt like family! It was great to come together during lunch and dinner time sharing interesting conversations and in addition, we had the chance to experience Estonian culture and lifestyle at all times. Also, I and the volunteers had so much fun learning new skills and exploring together Estonia. Thank you so much! I will miss everyone.

about 1 year ago

Robin replied

Thanks Sandra, you did a great job (and cooking) and yes we had some fun conversations over dinner etc.

Brazil

5

My one-week stay with Robin and Birgit was unforgettable. I enjoyed every single day of my volunteer experience and recommend to those looking for contact with nature, animals. My primary task was to build a platform for Cookie and Poppy, their lovely dogs, to play. I also helped Robin with packaging and labeling of his products. We had great conversations and I learned a lot about Estonia. Biking to the nearest grocery store in Aegviidu takes about 40 min. Train to Tallin around 50 minutes. My room was very comfortable and the food, delicious. Could not have asked for better hosts! Thank u!

about 1 year ago

Robin replied

So kind, thanks Roberto....see you agaian one day maybe :)

Perfect for you if you're looking for

Business

Contact with nature

Rural

Contact with animals

Wilderness

Family