Introduction to Permaculture

Workshop: Introduction to Permaculture

Upcoming Dates

April 11–12, 2026
September 26–27, 20256

Have you heard about it? Are you interested and would like to learn more?

Come discover permaculture with us!

Over the course of a weekend, we’ll explore the history of permaculture and then take a detailed look at its key principles and the design methodology specific to permaculture (Design).

After this weekend, you’ll be able to design your living space according to the principles of permaculture.

Whether you have a balcony or a large estate, you’ll learn—by observing how nature works and through many hands-on and creative activities—how to create an oasis of abundance around you!

It is no coincidence that permaculture is rapidly expanding around the world right now: it offers real solutions to today's challenges.

So come discover these answers with us and learn how to build more resilience and sustainability into your life!

La Fontaine Eco-Estate in Pornic

Program

On the agenda:

  • Definition of Permaculture, Its Philosophy, and Its History
  • The Ethics of Permaculture
  • The Basic Principles
  • Design Methodology
  • Practical Examples of Application

To fully integrate the methodology and principles, we will work together to select a location for one or more participants. During this session, we will have the opportunity to explore other topics related to permaculture, such as how ecosystems function, water management, animal husbandry, and human permaculture…

A hands-on afternoon will round out the weekend. We’ll visit the gardens at the Éco-domaine, our bioclimatic greenhouse, and our forest gardens. It’s a chance to explore a real-life permaculture site and its design, get your hands dirty, and learn about the key principles of gardening in living soil!

Like all of our training programs, this workshop will alternate between theoretical sessions, games, group work, and hands-on workshops, creating an interactive and fun experience!

Terms and Rates

Course Fees

We offer a rate of 240€ per person for the 2-day workshop, including two lunches at our restaurant and afternoon snacks.

Are you coming with someone? The rate for the second person is 180 €, which is a 60 € discount.

On-site lodging available

If you would like to stay at the Éco-Domaine, the rates for full board—including 1 night’s stay, 1 dinner, and 1 breakfast—are as follows:

  • Workshop on April 11–12, 2026: €155 per person and €190 per couple
  • Workshop on September 26–27, 2026: €155 per person and €190 per couple

Catering

Vegetarian meals prepared on-site by our kitchen team using vegetables from our garden and local ingredients.

Location

Éco-Domaine La Fontaine
rue des Noelles
44210 PORNIC

Registration

mathieu.david@ecodomaine-la-fontaine.fr
Mathieu: 06 49 60 80 80

La Fontaine Eco-Estate in Pornic

Testimonials from Former Interns

Thank you so much, Mathieu, for this introductory permaculture workshop, which makes us reflect on our lifestyles and their impact on the planet and gives us a hands-on experience (ah, gardening!) of a well-structured method that offers very concrete solutions. I’m eager to continue…
Patrice

Thank you so much for this opportunity to learn and exchange ideas. You’ve managed to share with us not only knowledge and enthusiasm but also practical advice on the vast and fascinating subject of permaculture.
Thomas

I’m writing this quick note to thank you for the two-day permaculture workshop, which turned out to be two wonderful days of shared insights and enjoyment on this topic—especially in such a beautiful setting. I have no doubt that everything we learned will help us move forward with fresh ideas.
Marie-Laure