Mechanic says engine must be lowered to replace timing-belt side engine mount. Is there an easier way?

Took my car into the mechanic to get the timing belt done (bit too big of a job for myself). I also had a new engine mount I wanted to replace and figured he would have to take that off anyway so he may as well do it.

Got a call from him later saying he would have to drop the engine down a bit (so removing suspension and driveshaft) to remove the mount.  I don't have reason to doubt him, but I was thinking of doing this job myself anyway. Just curious: is there an easier way?

No easier way as far as I know. You can get the driveshaft off the gearbox end by removing the lower ball joint and track rod off the strut. No need to remove the whole supension or move the strut to hub bolts.

I have never had to drop an engine to take out a mount.  I have Raised it with my engine support, but I have never had to drop an axle ever.

I think he may not be VW savvy.