Learning to work with Nature, not against it
When?: 31st of October 2026
Costs: 60 euros
Location: Val de Foy, close to Bergerac, Eymet
Permaculture has a way of changing how you look at the world. It certainly changed mine.
This 2.5-hour introductory workshop is not just about principles and techniques. It is also the story of a journey. Years ago I became fascinated by stories about permaculture, agroforestry and food forests. The idea that we could work with nature instead of constantly fighting it felt both hopeful and surprisingly logical. That curiosity eventually led me to study permaculture and to start biodiversity projects in my own neighbourhood in Rotterdam, where together with others we transformed small urban spaces into places where insects, birds and people could thrive again.
Today that journey continues in southwest France, where I am creating Val de Foy as a living learning environment. It is an inspiring adventure, but also a humbling one. Nature has a habit of reminding us that she works on her own timeline. Just like in My Little Big Farm—A Netflix docufilm that has inspired me a lot—the biggest lessons often come from setbacks. Drought, pests, unexpected failures and changing seasons are not obstacles to avoid; they are part of learning to understand living systems.
During this workshop we’ll explore the foundations of permaculture: what it is, where it comes from, and why it offers practical solutions for many of today’s environmental challenges. We’ll look at the effects of urbanisation, intensive agriculture, the widespread use of artificial chemicals and our dependence on fossil energy. Together they are transforming landscapes across the world at an unprecedented pace.
And yet, despite everything we ask of her, nature keeps giving. She is remarkably resilient. If we learn to observe, cooperate and restore rather than exploit, we can help create landscapes that are richer, healthier and more abundant—for wildlife and for ourselves.
My hope is that this workshop leaves you with more than knowledge. I hope it leaves you with curiosity, optimism and the confidence that even small actions can make a meaningful difference. Whether you have a garden, a balcony, a farm or simply an interest in the natural world, permaculture offers a new lens through which to see the world around you.
If this introduction sparks your curiosity, I would be delighted to welcome you back for one of the more in-depth workshops, where we’ll move from inspiration to hands-on design and practical application.
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.
Let’s first dive in the basics and be inspired by my own journey:
Book this workshop!
