About The Project

Connecting... Listening... Responding...

2020 : The project begins

In spring 2024 we have taken the first step of fully reflecting our values in the business structure as well and became a Social Enterprise! We are now a Company limited by Guarantee underpinning our Not For Profit status (Mandala Garden Project LTD, Company number 808533).

The Mandala Garden Project began in spring 2020 on 4 acres of stony ground that had been under long-term pasture.

The land and original stone farmhouse, called Hardmuir of Boath* and built in the late 1800s, lies between Nairn and Forres in the beautiful Highlands of Scotland. Gomde Scotland, a Tibetan Buddhist woodland retreat centre, are 'next door'.

Findhorn Bay, the Findhorn Community and Inverness are approximately half an hour drive away.

* Hardmuir of Boath means "Stone moor of the herdsman’s hut"

Although the project officially began in 2020, the vision was seeding for many years. Very grateful to find the right place at the right time!

The first season was about taking stock, observing and making the first steps to lay the foundations for the project. Through meditation, as well as listening to the land and landscape, plans began to emerge.

The land was treated regularly with biodynamic preparations during that year, and continues to be.

Together with volunteers, we worked long clearing heaps of stones from one acre to create the first field for vegetable, flower and herb cultivation.

Also, water pipes were laid to key points for irrigation.

Many essential repairs and building works were carried out on the old farmhouse.

The following year...

In the second year (2021), a large polytunnel was constructed. See photos.

The beds were planted with the first vegetables and herbs.

A CSA was established and invitations to join sent out to the local community.

Propagation began of the community orchard fruit trees and bushes.

What's next in this story?

More recent developments and plans are posted elsewhere, such as on the News, Community Orchard, Veg box / Crop share, and Gallery pages.

Essentially, though, we are continuing to ...

• Practice co-creation, listening to the land at each step. Sensing into what wishes to emerge here.
• Work co-operatively and harmoniously.
• Welcome many friends and volunteers.
• Sow, plant, grow, harvest, gather seeds, compost,... and extract more stones(!).
• Nurture and nourish this land, each other and the whole community.