Learning from Nature, Designing with Nature

When? 12th to 15th of October 2026
Costs: 320 euros, see program below for details
Location: At Val de Foy, Eymet, occasionally we might visit another project.

Permaculture is more than a way of gardening or farming. It is a way of observing, understanding and designing systems that work together with nature instead of against it.

During this 4-day immersive course at Val de Foy, you will discover the foundations of permaculture and learn how to apply its principles to your own garden, land or living environment. The course combines theory, observation, practical exercises and hands-on work in the landscape.

Whether you are starting from scratch, looking for ways to make your garden more resilient, or searching for inspiration for a larger project, this course will give you the knowledge and tools to begin designing with nature as your guide.

This course is not suited for an intensive monoculture farmer. We recommend getting in touch and booking a private consult.

A journey from understanding to applying

The course starts with the foundations: what is permaculture, where does it come from, and why has it become increasingly relevant in today’s world?

Together we explore the ethical principles of permaculture and how they influence the way we make decisions about land, resources and communities. You will learn how to observe a landscape, read the signs nature gives us, and understand the relationships between soil, water, plants, animals, energy and people.

Every theoretical part of the course is followed by an individual or group exercise, allowing you to immediately connect the concepts with real situations and practical challenges.

Topics covered during the course include:

• What is permaculture and why does it matter?
• Sharing personal motivations: what do you want to learn and what challenges are you facing?
• The three ethical principles of permaculture
• Understanding the five permaculture zones and how they influence design
• The 10 design principles and how to apply them
• Why everything starts with healthy soil
• Understanding the elements within a landscape
• Basic principles of water management and energy flows
• Observation techniques: learning to read the land before making changes
• Creating sketches and first design ideas
• Turning ideas into practical solutions

From theory to practice

Permaculture is learned by doing. During the course, part of the time will be spent indoors in a workshop space next to Val de Foy, exploring concepts, sharing experiences and developing ideas.

The other part will be outdoors, where we will observe, analyse and work with the landscape. Please bring good outdoor shoes and clothing suitable for changing autumn weather conditions.

The course will conclude with a collective practical project: creating a pond. This final project brings together many of the principles we have explored during the course — water, biodiversity, landscape design, teamwork and working with natural systems.

A typical day

A day will combine learning, discussion, practical exercises and time outdoors.

A typical structure:

Morning

• Coffee, tea and introduction of the day’s theme
• Theory and discussion
• Individual or group exercises connected to the topic

Midday

• Shared lunch included

Afternoon

• Outdoor observation, practical work or design exercises
• Reflection and sharing experiences

The exact schedule will adapt to the group, the weather and the needs of the landscape.

Practical information

Duration: 4 days
Location: Val de Foy, near Eymet, South West France
Timing: 12th to 15th of October 2026
Accommodation and travel: Not included

October is a beautiful time at Val de Foy: the intense summer heat has passed, the landscape starts changing colour, and the cooler temperatures create ideal conditions for learning and working outdoors. However, autumn weather can be unpredictable, so please come prepared for sunshine, wind or rain.

Included:

• Full 4-day permaculture course
• Coffee, tea and drinking water throughout the day
• Two snacks per day
• Lunch

Not included:

• Accommodation
• Travel costs

If you need help finding suitable accommodation or arranging your travel to Val de Foy, please contact us before booking. We will be happy to help you explore the options.

Come with curiosity, leave with new perspectives, practical knowledge and the confidence to start designing a more resilient relationship with the land around you.

Languages: accessible for English, Dutch. Our French is still basic but it is possible to come a long way, if we help each other a bit.

Book this course!