What if a fortress built by the Normans, later restored as a delightful 17th-century ruin—a real folly, half-history, half-fantasy—could be reanimated by the energy of the 21st century?
Hawarden Castle is a place where things are profoundly not what they seem, from the massive, whale-shaped Beluga aircraft unexpectedly screeching overhead, to the hidden “Temple of Peace” where Prime Minister William Gladstone once studied.
Enter this dreamlike world with Charlie Gladstone, great-great-grandson of the statesman, who has embraced his weighty history not as a burden, but as fuel. Discover how this 3,500-acre estate, imbued with the spirit of Cecil Beaton and the grit of its ancestors, transforms heritage into a source of unique beauty and craftsmanship. Prepare to be beckoned in by the warm, glowing light of this place, through Isaac Zamet words and Aniella Weinberger eyes.

Flowers are more than a thing of beauty. Around the world, communities have been developing unique relationships with certain species for centuries, integrating them into cultural traditions, rituals, economies and daily life. The aim of Flower(s), a long-term photographic project by Teresa Freitas, is to document how flowers help shape identity by being present in different places – whether through their use in dyeing, ceremonial offerings, food, cosmetics, health practices, or other roles. Photography becomes a way to preserve fragile and untold stories that risk disappearing with time, as cultural practices fade and species face new threats from climate change, urbanisation and unsustainable harvesting.

At the doorstep of autumn, we left everything behind to embrace the serene beauty of the French countryside. For 48 hours, Ysé welcomed a small circle of women to Maison du Val for a gentle pause, a time to connect, create, and let art and creativity build bridges between people.

Imagine a place where history intertwines with art, where every corner tells a story, and where the creative spirit reigns supreme. Welcome to Château de Sacy, an 18th-century manor located in Picardy, just 45 minutes from Paris. This isn’t just any château: passed down through generations of strong, independent women, it’s now a vibrant sanctuary for artists, a place where château life meets bohemian charm. Discover this unique place through the eyes of photographer and journalist Pauline Chatelan as she shares her unforgettable experience in this article.

Nestled halfway between Normandy and Brittany, a mere 30 minutes from the iconic Mont Saint Michel, lies a true historical gem: the Château de La Ballue. This 17th-century castle is embraced by gardens that shift between classical, geometric elegance and whimsical, contemporary intrigue. Step into a fairytale come to life!

Giulia Angelini’s photography takes us to Losæter, an extraordinary community garden in the heart of Oslo. More than just a green space, Losæter is a testament to collective action, where people from all walks of life come together to cultivate food, learn, and connect with nature. Through her images, Giulia reveals the human stories woven into this urban oasis.

Tony Farfalla takes us to Huautla, Mexico, a remote town known for its female mushroom healers. He shares his profound experience with Abuelita Agustina, an 86-year-old curandera who uses psychedelic mushrooms in her healing ceremonies. Discover the history of mushroom use in Huautla, the impact of Maria Sabina (a renowned healer), and the unique blend of indigenous spirituality and Catholicism that informs Agustina’s practice. This fascinating article will leave you wanting to learn more about the power of these sacred mushrooms and the women who have guarded their use for generations.