The Bee Orchid (*Ophrys apifera*) and Lesser Butterfly-orchidScientific (*Platanthera bifolia)*

Nestled on the shores of Lough Carra, at the foot of the Partry Mountains, our family’s heritage has been deeply rooted in this landscape for generations. Farming is at the heart of our way of life, and crafting is a tradition that has been passed down through the years. Some of my earliest memories are of sitting perched on my father’s shoulders as he worked the land. His love for nature and the environment is a value he has instilled in me since childhood.

After living in London for a number of years, I felt a profound calling to return to rural Ireland and develop a craft business on our family farm. Taking inspiration from the rich natural heritage that surrounds us, I created Hawthorn Skincare. Today, my father, Seamus, continues to farm with the same dedication, and when he’s not tending to the land, he lends a hand in our studio.

Our farm is situated within a designated Special Area of Conservation (SAC), recognised for its unique limestone habitats and biodiversity. The land around Lough Carra is a haven for native wildflowers. Over 400 species of higher plants have been recorded here, making it one of the richest botanical areas in the country. The limestone grasslands and pavement create the perfect conditions for a rich variety of flora to thrive.

Walking through the meadows, the wildflowers have been flourishing throughout June. One of my favourites is Yellow Rattle (Rhinanthus minor), often called the “meadow maker.” It gently suppresses grass growth, allowing wildflowers to flourish. I’ve also noticed the soft lilac blooms of Devil's-Bit Scabious (Succisa pratensis), swaying with bees on warm days, and the cheerful Bird’s-foot Trefoil, a low-growing flower often known as “eggs and bacon” for its yellow and orange hues.

Among the most striking wildflowers found here are our native orchids. The Bee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) is a particular delight, its flowers mimicking the appearance of bees to attract pollinators. Blooming in early summer, the elegant Lesser Butterfly-orchid (Platanthera bifolia) catches the eye with its pale, star-like flowers and slender form. A late-season treasure is Autumn Lady’s-tresses (Spiranthes spiralis), with its delicate spirals of white flowers. The rare Fly Orchid (Ophrys insectifera), with its deep, velvety blooms, is easily overlooked but fascinating once spotted.

During the summer and autumn, our cattle graze on grassland rich in native grasses and wildflowers. This habitat benefits from the cattle grazing, as they help manage the grass, allowing the wildflowers to continue thriving. It’s a natural partnership that has existed for generations, maintaining the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem.

These wildflowers are more than just a beautiful backdrop, they’re part of Ireland’s natural heritage, and we feel incredibly lucky to share our days with them. The land we farm offers a quiet reminder of how much life can flourish when we care for the land in the right way.

As I walk these fields each day, I'm reminded how much wisdom there is in nature’s timing. The wildflowers don’t rush. They emerge when conditions are right, each one playing its part in the rhythm of the season. It’s a lesson I carry into the work we do in the studio: to create slowly, intentionally, and in harmony with the land around us.

Our top tips for restoring your body this Summer:

Use gentle exfoliants to give a fresh, radiant complexion. Exfoliating regularly can improve the texture of your skin and promote cell renewal, leaving you with a smoother, brighter and healthier appearance.
Treat yourself to a luxurious body oil or body balm to hydrate and nourish your skin. Look for products that contain nourishing ingredients like shea butter, Plum Oil, and vitamin E to restore moisture and leave your skin feeling soft and supple.
Incorporate massage oils or balms into your self-care routine to relax tired muscles and soothe aches and pains. Massaging your body with warm oils can improve circulation, reduce tension, and promote relaxation.
Don't forget to pamper your mind as well as your body. Incorporate calming essential oils like lavender into your body routine to help you relax and allow you to get a good night's sleep.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Nourishing your body from the inside out can help support your skin's health and overall well-being.