Date: June 29 – July 12, 2025
The Permaculture Design Certificate (PDC) course follows an internationally recognized curriculum and offers you a unique combination of theory and practice, taught by Cristina Colis, an experienced and passionate trainer. This is the third edition of the course taught by Cristina at Ermitaj and the fifth PDC organized by Rémy Pasti and Coline Vanlaeys, who will be your hosts. The course will take place from June 29 to July 12, 2025, with two break days (July 3 and 8).
In short, what will you learn?
- The fundamental principles of key topics such as forests, water, soil formation, and how to apply them in the ecological design of a site.
- Ecological design: Creating sustainable systems for housing, agriculture, and water management.
- The origins of permaculture and its relevance in addressing current and future challenges.
- Practical strategies for soil regeneration, resource management, and rainwater harvesting.
- How to create resilient, collaborative projects adapted to your environment.
Who is this course for?
- Anyone interested in a more sustainable lifestyle.
- Those who have the opportunity to develop their own piece of paradise.
- Farmers, gardeners, and landscape architects eager to integrate permaculture into their skills.
- Teachers, policymakers, activists, and anyone looking to become a driver of change.
No prior knowledge is required. Even teenagers are welcome!
Why choose this course?
A two-week residential PDC is an investment of time and money, but one that is worth it. Every participant from previous editions confirms it: the time and format are essential for a deep immersion in the world of permaculture. It is a life experience, not just a course.
An in-person course offers a unique advantage over online courses:
- Access to reference books,
- Hands-on exercises,
- Valuable exchanges with other participants,
- Carefully prepared meals made from local ingredients,
- Moments of conviviality (campfires, nature walks, games).
The previous edition was highly appreciated for the clarity and relevance of the content. We are constantly improving, and by integrating feedback, each edition becomes richer and more engaging.
The first PDC's, organized by Philippe
Main topics
While the topics covered remain the same, the schedule is provided for reference and may be subject to change.
Certification requires attendance at a minimum of 90% of the sessions.
Day 1: Introduction to permaculture
Day 2: Natural patterns, microclimates, introduction to design methodology
Day 3: Topography and water management
Day 4: Soil, land, and agricultural terrains
Day 5: Break
Day 6: Productive systems (gardens, orchards)
Day 7: Permaculture design methods
Day 8: Social permaculture
Day 9: Energy and construction
Day 10: Break
Day 11: Waste management and composting
Day 12: Economic aspects
Day 13: Urban permaculture
Day 14: Presentation of design projects and closing
In addition to the main topics, practical workshops and evening activities will be organized.
Trainers
Cristina Colis, the lead trainer, has extensive experience in permaculture and is one of the few people in Romania authorized to teach a PDC. She has trained hundreds of people in forest gardening, design methods, and gardening.
Coline Vanlaeys, Tiberiu Marcu, Bogdan Suliman, and Rémy Pasti will assist Cristina, co-facilitating the practical workshops. All four are currently working towards obtaining their applied permaculture diploma.
What is a PDC like?
A PDC is primarily a theoretical course, with a minimum of 72 hours of content, to which the in-person format adds workshops and practical exercises. These workshops take different forms:
- Educational games to illustrate theoretical aspects in a fun way, such as the famous Gods of Rain.
- Practical demonstrations, to learn how to use useful tools, like the bunyip level.
- Concrete applications of theoretical content: harvesting wild flora, maintaining garden plots, making clay plasters (cob), etc.
- A design project, developed in small groups through multiple dedicated sessions throughout the course, to be presented on the last day.
Beyond educational content, each participant is invited to contribute to the collective management of the site (15-20 minutes per day).
There will also be community-building activities (morning circles, the talking stick, etc.). These are concrete tools that will help us live this experience as a group and that you can apply in your work, family, or activities you organize.
And of course, there will be festive moments, especially before break days. Be careful not to burn yourself tasting freshly baked cob oven pizza!
During free time, you can enjoy board games, volleyball, badminton, or discover pétanque with Rémy and Coline, who will be happy to introduce you to this game that is far too little known in Romania (Marseillais would not disagree!). A few musical instruments are also available to accompany our many campfire evenings.
In short, a PDC is serious, but so much more than that!
A typical day schedule
- 07:15 – 08:00: Breakfast
- 08:15: Morning circle
- 08:30: Session 1
- 10:00: Break
- 10:30: Session 2
- 12:00: Lunch
- 14:30: Session 3
- 16:00: Break
- 16:30: Session 4
- 18:00: End of classes
- 19:00: Dinner
Practical Information
The course fee has been calculated to cover organizational costs, accommodation, meals, and trainer and cook fees.
It is also based on your ability to pay, according to family income. We rely on your understanding and fair play. If you are fortunate enough to no longer need to work due to savings or significant investments, we appreciate you choosing the highest rate.
The course fee includes high-quality, balanced, and healthy meals, from the first morning of the training until lunch on the last day. Tea, coffee, juices, and snacks are available during breaks.
Register at least 2 months before the start of the course and benefit from the Early Bird rate (10% discount)!
Pricing Grid
| Income category | Regular Price | Early Bird Price |
| 1) < 2500 lei (€500) | 3080 (615 €) | 2765 (550 €) |
| 2) 2500 – 6000 lei (€500 – €1500) | 3640 (730 €) | 3255 (650 €) |
| 3) 6000 – 12000 lei (€1500 – €2400) | 4200 (840 €) | 3780 (750 €) |
| 4) 12000 lei (€2400) | 4760 (950 €) | 4270 (850 €) |
For the course to take place, at least 11 participants are required. If this number is not reached one month before the start, the course will be canceled. Registered participants will be fully refunded without additional compensation.
Registration
Read the General Conditions and Internal Rules carefully before registering!
Spots are limited! Reserve yours now.
For more details and registration, contact us directly or fill out the registration form (in romanian language):