🇳🇱 Deze nieuwsbrief liever in het Nederlands ontvangen? Laat het ons weten!

Dear ,

Stillness. The nights are star filled here in the mountains (when the mists clear). More often than not, the nights are clear and crisp, while the days are painted with trailing mists, softly gracing the treetops. 

Life is busy, and with our ever growing list of dreams, plans and to do’s this time of year is always a gentle reminder to slow down, an invitation to surrender to an internal longing to hibernate. As we take time to reflect on this past year, gather lessons and compost the things that do not serve, the wisdom of the oak and other trees seems so fitting. They let go of all leaf matter, that which no longer serves, to be composted and returned to the earth, providing nourishment and growth for the following cycle. 

As the earth rests, the rhythm on the farm shifts into its winter pattern. Our flock of Shetland sheep has moved back onto winter grazing between the Aronia rows, where they help manage the grass and add life back into the soil.The vegetable garden has been put to rest for the season. The beds are covered in thick layers of compost and organic material to nourish and feed the soil.

Our abundant aronia harvest, which we sold to Phyterberry, has recently been pressed and the juice is now available to order through Phyterberry Shop. Our workshop/barn space is finished and was inaugurated with our first community solstice celebration. 

As we reflect on 2025 we feel deep gratitude for the possibility we have to steward this land, and all the ways in which we have felt supported by our international and local community.

Below we’d love to share a snapshot from the past months, an invitation for work weeks coming in 2026, and the opportunity to stay in our studio as a short term resident.

Climate Week farm tour

This autumn we hosted our first formal farm tour as part of Climate Action Week, welcoming several “Men’s Sheds” groups from Tipperary. These men meet regularly to build beautiful wooden creations, an antidote to the increasing isolation and loneliness experienced by many people after they retire. It was a lovely afternoon of conversation, curiosity and storytelling. Together we explored the importance of land care and regeneration, and practical steps communities can take to build social and ecological resilience.

It was a humbling experience to share our dreams for this farm with people who have less than fond memories of living and working on the land from 40+ years ago. A time when growing vegetables was about survival, when a local economy was the only way. They shared stories of being a child and sorting apples in storage every week, or living in single bedrooms with 8 other children. Farm life was to be escaped at all costs.

Farm life in Ireland 50 years ago was very different to what it is now. And while the group was enthusiastic about our vision of a landscape that is healthy, and ecosystems that are resilient, they were also quick to remind us that this work is hard. A healthy reminder that it is not about “going back” to old ways, but a return to relationship with land in a way that it can continue to support us and all life. And of course, there are many old ways that are packed with wisdom that have been lost, which is why these stories can teach us so many important & practical things. For example how to store apples for 6 months with nothing but paper and a good routine of checking them!

Terranu Work Weeks 2026

Over the past year Terranu has welcomed a wonderful flow of visitors. Friends and family have dropped in and helped for an hour here or there, and groups of colleagues, friends and volunteers have supported us with projects across the land. These shared moments have brought great energy and connection, and they have helped us deepen the work of restoration in ways that feel communal and joyful.

We also want to offer a big thank you to the Planetary Service Team, whose visit helped stir up new thinking on what it means to host volunteers well and how to create experiences that are meaningful for both people and the land.

Building on this, we are now planning Work Weeks in 2026. Each week offers a clear theme, hands-on learning and time outdoors, with food and basic accommodation included. Whether you are curious about regenerative farming, looking for meaningful time in nature or simply wanting to spend a week contributing to a living landscape, you are very welcome to join us.

Alongside these weeks, we are also offering Regenerative Residencies. This is an opportunity  to stay at Terranu anywhere from two weeks to two months and restore your own energy while helping regenerate the land. With accommodation in a rustic self contained studio this opportunity is ideal if you need time out or time in, such as writing a book, grounding yourself, reflecting or simply living in peaceful surroundings while contributing a few hours a day to the farm. Custom arrangements can be made, contact us for info.

Note: The exact details of Work Weeks will be announced in early 2026, as we are still puzzling some dates. Already excited and want to make sure the dates work for you? Feel free to reach out. All work weeks will include accommodation, shared community meals, local hikes and cultural experiences. 

February 2026 – Tree Care and Woodland Stewardship

Capacity: 3-5 people.

Join us for the first Work Week of the year as we tend to the young woodlands at Terranu. We will remove invasive species, protect young trees and plant new ones where the land calls for it. 

Early May – Waking Up the Garden and Intro to Regenerative Farming Course

Capacity: 7 to 12 people with additional camping spots

May brings energy back into the soil. This week centres on preparing the garden for the growing season and includes a short introductory course in regenerative farming. 

Early August – Aronia Harvest and Summer Celebration

Capacity: 7 to 12 people with additional camping spots

August is harvest time at Terranu. This week focuses on harvesting Aronia berries, learning about berry production and enjoying the fullness of summer. We will work in the fields, share long summer meals and go on a local hike. A celebration of Irish summer traditions completes the week.

October/November – Building the Terranu Sauna

Capacity: 3 to 5 people

In autumn we gather for a hands-on building week where we will construct a simple farm sauna. Participants will learn practical building skills and contribute to a space that will serve future gatherings. 

Thanks for your trust!

Terranu has met all its financial goals for for 2026! This has been possible only through the trust, generosity and encouragement of everyone who chose to invest in our work here in Ireland. Your support has helped us deepen our restoration commitment, strengthen farm infrastructure and create more space for nature.

We will open another opportunity to invest in Terranu next year. For now, we simply want to say thank you. We feel deeply grateful for everyone who has contributed to this journey!

From all of us at Terranu, we wish you a very happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year. May the season bring rest, warmth and good company.

Nakyta and Pieter