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Our Story
Since 2012, our journey has been one of deep learning, experimentation, and connection — growing, crafting, and preserving traditions that honor the earth and its abundance.
Rooted in Nature, Guided by Tradition
We’re Helena and Gavin, the people behind The Rock Ballymacavany, a smallholding nestled in the hills of Donegal. Our story is one of deep connection to the land, a love of plants, and a calling to craft nourishing remedies that honour both people and the earth.
The Rock Ballymacavany takes its name from Baile Mhic Ámhain (in Irish) a place steeped in natural beauty, folklore, and quiet magic. Its ancient name hints at pre-Christian Ireland and its Druidic past, with the name Ámhain rooted in Ámh, meaning "protection" or "fearlessness," and -ain, a common personal name suffix in Old Irish, together translating to "fearless one."
Thus, Ballymacavany can be understood as “the place of the sons of a fearless one.”
Slowly tapping into the ancient vibrations of this land and of those who walked here before us...we live and work in rhythm with the seasons, tending our gardens and crafting botanical skincare and herbal remedies from the plants we grow ourselves.
Every balm, oil, and infusion we create begins in our gardens, nurtured from seed to harvest with great care, patience, and respect for the land. Our practice is rooted in natural horticulture, traditional plant wisdom, and seed stewardship, a way of life that blends ancient knowledge with mindful, regenerative growing.
Seed Guardianship and Natural Growing
As recognized seed guardians with the Irish Seed Savers and the GAIA Foundation, we continue to cultivate and save heritage seeds, preserving biodiversity and ancient varieties for future generations. But our greatest passion lies in transforming plants into healing formulations; remedies that nourish the skin, soothe the spirit, and celebrate the resilience of nature.
For us, tending the soil, growing herbs, and handcrafting botanical products is more than a livelihood, it’s a way of life. A cycle of reciprocity, reverence, and resilience. Every product we make is a reflection of our deep belief that true wellness begins with the earth beneath our feet.
We’re honoured to invite you into our world, and to share a piece of our gardens with you. Whether you’re seeking herbal wisdom, a nourishing balm, or simply a connection to something deeper, we hope our work brings you the same sense of calm and wonder we find here at The Rock Ballymacavany.
For us, tending the soil, growing herbs, and handcrafting botanical products is more than a livelihood, it’s a way of life. A cycle of reciprocity, reverence, and resilience. Every product we make is a reflection of our deep belief that true wellness begins with the earth beneath our feet.
We’re honoured to invite you into our world, and to share a piece of our gardens with you. Whether you’re seeking herbal wisdom, a nourishing balm, or simply a connection to something deeper, we hope our work brings you the same sense of calm and wonder we find here at The Rock Ballymacavany.
Thank you for being part of our journey.
Together, we sow the seeds of a more sustainable, harmonious world.