About Paladini

Since 1993 the Asana International School have been welcoming teenagers from all over Europe to our school in Cahersiveen, Co. Kerry, Ireland. Founded by Colm and Adi in 1993, and now involving our four sons Oisin, Fionan, Caoimhin and Ruadhan we have opened a new activity centre in Garfagnana, Lucca, Tuscany. We welcome groups of up to thirty students at a time for one and two week courses in which we combine fun volunteering tasks and activities with real immersion in nature, developing students’ skills in collaboration, creativity and responsibility. The language of communication in Paladini is English.

Paladini is located in the mountains of Garfagnana, approximately one hour north of Lucca, in an ancient chestnut forest. We are close to the villages of Chiozza and Castiglione di Garfagnana, and a 20-minute walk from a river, waterfall and medieval bridge where students can cool off in the warmer months.

At Paladini we produce our own chestnut flour following the ancient traditions of Garfagnana, and are in the process of regenerating the old chestnut forest. Depending on the season, students will participate in the production of our chestnut flour, clearing the forest floor, sourcing and stacking fire-wood, cultivating our vegetable garden, taking care of our animals and much more. Above all participants will be encouraged to assume a level of responsibility in their area of interest, focusing on successful collaboration with other participants and members of staff. English is the language used at all times at Paladini and we do our best to ensure a good international presence to validate this.