A hands-on week-long immersion in habitat restoration, community, and nature connection

Monday - Friday, Breakfast and Lunch included, space for campervans and camping is available on site (please note this does not include camping equipment).

Come to West Clare to connect with the leading edge of restoration and the ancient roots of Ireland's natural habitats. Experience Weeks are a hands-on immersion in habitat restoration, community, and nature connection. You’ll spend the week planting, managing, exploring and living in community with like-minded people. All while learning from our experienced facilitators, both in our tree nursery and out on the land.

Whether you're chatting while sowing seeds, exploring an ancient woodland or going for a sea swim in the evening, you’ll leave with more than you expected.

Who is this programme for?  

This week is for anyone curious about habitat restoration in Ireland. Any level of experience is welcome. Whether you're a professional ecologist, someone taking their first steps in connecting with nature, or anywhere in between, you'll find something meaningful here. The pace of the week is self-directed, with plenty of space to dive deeper into the work or take time to slow down and reflect.

What’s included? 

• Guided walks:  Explore native woodlands and restoration sites with expert guides who will share insights into local ecology, biodiversity, and the challenges facing these landscapes.

• Deep adaptation workshop with Matt Smith:  Join Hometree CEO Matt Smith for an in-depth session on resilience, regeneration, and responding meaningfully to ecological and climate crises.

• Hands-on learning:  Get practical experience in our native tree nursery and on our restoration site,  learning how to grow, plant, and care for native trees.

• Film screening, Q&A:  Watch Dinnseanchas, our powerful short film exploring the spirit of place and landscape, followed by a Q&A.

• Onsite camping /campervans are included as part of the ticket prices.  Hot showers, toilet and access to a dry space is available for those camping or in campervans.   There are plenty of nearby options for accommodations for those looking to sleep under a roof.

• Shared meals Nourishing vegetarian breakfast and lunch will be provided.

What will you take away?  

The week will include a mix of hands-on restoration work, workshops, guided tours and walks. By the end of the week, you will have a deeper understanding of the history of Ireland’s landscape, the current complexities facing restoration and the solutions hometree is using.

All our workshops are designed to deepen your connection with nature and build your understanding of Ireland’s native trees and woodlands.

Restoring Ireland’s habitats takes more than tools and techniques, it takes people. Camping, sharing meals, and working the land together is a powerful way to build community. Add in sea swims and an evening trip to the pub, and you’ve got the makings of lasting connection.

Time spent in nature is hard to replace. Leaving the week you will be taking some of the peace, magic and beauty from nature with you back to your normal life.

What We Ask of You:

• Full attendance: Commit to the full week and timetable.

• Hands on learning:  Willingness to get stuck into the tasks in our tree nursery or out on the land

• Fee contribution: Pay the fee appropriate to your circumstances to help cover food and overheads.

• Come prepared: Wear appropriate clothing and footwear for conservation work.

• Weather awareness: Prepare for all weather conditions. Even on sunny days, the ground may be wet.

• Mindset: Bring a positive attitude, teamwork, respect for nature and fellow participants, and a willingness to engage fully.

• Logistics: Arrange your own transport and accommodation. Camping onsite is available, or choose from nearby accommodation options.

Book your place now:
Spaces are limited; we keep the group small to ensure time for connection, conversation, and meaningful work on the land.

Next course date: 1 - 5th of September
Location: Hometree HQ, Ennisstymon, Clare, V95 HN7X
Cost: 449 eur

Subsidised places A limited number of subsidised places will be offered. Email finnian@hometree.ie

A week immersed in the mission, values, and transformative work of Hometree.