Deepika Rao recaps a hard-to-forget experience at Learn To Grow in Bahrain.
They say you find the secrets of the universe walking through a forest. Touching the bark of a tree, tuning in to birdsong, the rustle of leaves, or the sound of water trickling nearby — it’s these moments that quieten the noise in our heads.
That’s a long-winded way of saying: that there’s something deeply restorative about spending time in nature, amid greenery. Contrary to what you might think, you don’t need to board a plane or trek up a mountain to find that kind of peace. It exists, rather unexpectedly, just off the Janabiyah main road in Bahrain — at a place called Learn to Grow, founded by Reem Yateem.
One quiet Saturday morning, I decided to finally visit this place I’d heard so much about. The moment I stepped through its gates, Bahrain — as I knew it — faded away.
There’s something about the openness of the land, the smell of soil, and the sounds of life (the non-traffic kind) that grounds you instantly. I had the sudden urge to ditch my shoes and walk barefoot through the earth and Sherry, the in-house yoga instructor encouraged it. It was the kind of lesson in mindfulness I didn’t know I needed.
Ducks waded through the shallow streams that crisscross the farm. Chickens pecked about in small clusters, unbothered by visitors, adding a charming rhythm to the space. These aren’t just cute additions — they’re integral to the regenerative ecosystem, and a big part of what makes this place feel alive.
In essence, it’s an outdoor educational centre. It’s a living, breathing space that brings people closer to nature. Whether it’s through movement, art, regenerative farming, or simply slowing down, the focus here is on reconnecting with the natural world.
The farm itself is divided into distinct zones, each planned with a purpose. Some areas are designed specifically with children in mind — featuring hardy, non-toxic plants and wide, open spaces that invite exploration. Other zones introduce more complex ecosystems and serve as learning hubs for older kids and adults.
At the heart of it all is a working regenerative farm — think nutrient-rich soil, composting, companion planting, and a deep respect for the cycles of nature. The goal isn’t just to grow food — it’s to teach people how to do it sustainably, with intention and care.
Whether you’re a quiet soul looking for a space to reflect or someone who finds joy in hands-on learning, there’s something at Learn to Grow for you — and the whole family.
A six-week adventure for kids that weaves together science, movement, art, and nutrition. Each week focuses on a new theme, encouraging little ones to explore, question, and create. It’s education wrapped in play, with a strong dose of environmental awareness.
Tailored experiences for schools, guided by educators trained in NGSS Standards. Expect thoughtfully designed sessions around topics like food chains, desertification, plant biology, and adaptation — all made accessible through interactive outdoor learning. It’s education, unplugged.
Seasonal camps offer kids a mix of unstructured play and structured activities — from painting and storytelling to digging in the garden and learning about where our food comes from. These camps are more than childcare; they’re community-building and curiosity-fuelling.
Every Saturday, the gates open wide for anyone to walk in, slow down, and explore at their own pace. Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular, there’s a calm and unspoken invitation to just be — with your family, your thoughts, or your muddy feet.
A gentle introduction to nature for the youngest explorers. Think finger painting, barefoot walking, and giggles echoing through the garden. It’s all about wonder and discovery, with no rush or pressure — just joyful play in a safe, natural space.
Workshops, wellness sessions, and creative gatherings led by local practitioners take place regularly in the permaculture garden. These events invite you to pause, stretch, learn a new craft, or simply share space with like-minded people.
For those who want to give back while getting their hands a little dirty, Volunteer Day is a community-led initiative that welcomes helping hands. Whether it’s painting signs, tending the garden, crafting installations, or sprucing up pathways, volunteers are encouraged to contribute to the space’s beauty and upkeep. It’s a lovely reminder that Learn to Grow is more than a farm — it’s a shared space shaped by the community, for the community.
Living in Bahrain has taught me something quietly profound: the value of slowing down. Maybe it’s the rhythm of island life, the openness of the landscapes, or the way the wind moves so freely between the two seas — but there’s a mindset here that encourages presence.
Yes, Bahrain is vibrant, fast-paced, and full of life. From its ever-growing skyline to its endless stream of social happenings, there’s an unmistakable energy that keeps things moving. And yet, nestled within this bustle are pockets of stillness. Spaces that remind you to pause, breathe, and reconnect.
Learn to Grow is one of those places. A green sanctuary that feels both unexpected and entirely at home here. It’s where the noise fades and nature quietly takes over. Where you might find yourself in a yoga pose beneath a tree, hands in soil learning about permaculture, or simply watching ducks wade through shallow streams — and for a moment, forgetting everything else.
