Permaculture Forest Course with Helder Valente

Hey friends!

Join us at Vale Ondula on Sunday, 25th of May 2025, for this workshop that dives into forest ecology and food forest design, giving you the skills to create abundant, diverse, and resilient forest-based systems inspired by nature, led by renowned permaculture designer Helder Valente. With his deep roots in permaculture and sustainability.

About the Workshop

At the Permaculture Forest Course, you will step into the world of forest ecosystems and food forest design with this immersive, one-day workshop led by permaculture expert Helder Valente. This course explores how to work with nature to create forest systems that are abundant, diverse, and resilient, whether on a small plot or a larger landscape. Set in the beautiful natural surroundings of Vale Ondula, this course blends theory with hands-on experience and peer learning in a dynamic and supportive environment.

About the Facilitator

Helder Valente is a highly respected permaculture designer and educator, with decades of experience working in diverse climates and learning from pioneers such as Bill Mollison, Geoff Lawton, and Rosemary Morrow. As the founder of the New School Permaculture, Helder has been teaching Permaculture Design Courses (PDCs) and forest courses around the world. Born and raised in rural Portugal, not far from Vale Ondula, Helder brings a wealth of local expertise and a lifetime of connection to nature.

About Vale Ondula

Nestled in the scenic hills of northern Portugal, Vale Ondula is a thriving permaculture living lab and eco-community. We are dedicated to regenerating ecosystems and fostering community, making it the perfect setting for this workshop.

Workshop Content

• The principles of forest ecology and succession

• How to design and plant a food forest for long-term abundance

• Techniques for layering, guild building, and natural integration

• Practical skills for implementing and maintaining forest systems

• How to mimic nature to regenerate degraded land and grow food sustainably

What to Bring

• Comfortable clothes and sturdy, closed shoes

• Your garden tools (scissors, saws, etc.), not mandatory

• Pen & paper to take notes

• A dish to share for the potluck lunch - snacks and tea are on us!

Programme

• 09:30 – 13:30: Morning theory session

• 13:30 – 14:30: Potluck lunch—bring your favorite dish and we’ll share it picnic-style!

• 14:30 – 18:30: Afternoon practical session

Contribution

• Adults: Sliding scale of €55 to €85

• Children: Free. We’ll have a dedicated childminder on-site to keep an eye on the little ones, so parents can fully participate—larger contributions from families are encouraged to help support this service.

  
  

RSVP Required

Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today by registering here.

Come connect with nature, learn valuable skills, and immerse yourself in a day of permaculture practice at Vale Ondula. We can’t wait to see you!