WHO, WHAT AND WHERE & WHY ? - ZÊZERE ARTISTIC-HABITAT

More than a home,

more than a holiday retreat, more than a location for a photoshoot, more than a venue for an event or an exhibition, Ana Ana is anything you want it to be. Its current custodian, its curator-sur-place, its artist-in-residence, its mentor, its originator, its guardian, indeed its designer, is the unassuming and soft-spoken Eric de Bruijn.
Looking to return to the buzz of urban living after quieter times in the hills outside Lagos, to reconnect with people and places, while at the same time eager to create the ideal setting in which to live and accommodate his work as an artist-designer, the Dutchman saw great potential in a place in Portimão that others would have just walked by without a thought. Previous incarnations of this industrial building include a boat garage and a dairy warehouse. Indeed, the hooks from which the boats used to hang are still doggedly clinging to the ceiling. But there is little else now, apart perhaps from the clearly industrial metal-framed, single-paned windows lining the walls, to suggest the building’s past. Entering from the city centre street, not far from the riverfront, the building opens up to greet you, its high ceilings and former garage dimensions lending themselves to their new role, showcasing Eric’s artwork and collection, while at same time retaining an uncanny cosiness. Head through this large room into another, a kitchen of huge proportions, or is it? You’d easily mistake it for a dining room in an urban-chic restaurant. Eric’s background in restaurant design is clear to see, as is the versatility of this building, which has become a photoshoot location favourite. Eric’s art studio develops to the rear of the ground floor, while upstairs the entire floor has been given over to lovingly renovated, deliciously decorated guest accommodation, with five concept bedrooms, and a riad-style rooftop terrace and pool worthy of Marrakech. The honed result, following an intentional, yet natural process, is a venue that sees Eric’s home life and work life joyously connecting, producing a multifunctional home-atelier open to welcome the world.

tekst: Chris Mingay

Portimão

The sea is so blue and the waves so soft... The sun warms the heart... The sand is golden and fine which contrasts with the wonderful cliffs and rocks...

Portimão is a touristic place for the quality it offers and without a doubt this is a perfect place for vacations.

In addiction to the beaches, we offer very special gastronomy and great wines as well cultural events and parties.

You are very welcome.

things to do

... BEACHES ...

Praia da Rocha is a beach with a huge stretch of sand and where the most touristic bars and restaurants are concentrated, is also the place where most tourists gather and it is less then 2km from ana-ana artistic habitat.

Praia dos Careanos has a unique beauty, which is imposed by the tones of the sand, the sea and the rock formations.

Access to the sandy beach of Praia dos Careanos is via a steep staircase.

Praia do Vau contoured by soft cliffs of ocher tones, golden sands and translucent waters, Praia do Vau is chosen by families with children for its easy pedestrian access and the safety with which the little ones can play here when the tide is low.

Praia do Alemão it has a pine forest at the top of the cliff that becomes a real windbreak on windy days, the sandy beach of Praia do Alemão is quiet and the surroundings are still very natural.

Prainha is a small sand shell framed by scenic rock formations, intensely sculpted by the action of fresh and salty waters. Caution is recommended when exploring the corners provided by the cut out of rock formations, since the fall of blocks is frequent. It shelters a rich and colorful marine life, being favored the practice of diving in these coves.

Praia dos Três Irmãos with very blue water with a natural beauty that is worth exploring when the tide is low in the area of rocks, where we can find small hidden beaches and where you can appreciate the beauty of this place.

Praia de Alvor with a sandy beach as far as the eye can see, Alvor is a dream beach, equipped with complete support infrastructures that include equipment for sailing, water skiing or windsurfing.

The origins of the picturesque fishing village of Alvor date back to the Arab occupation, having been an important port at the time. It is worth strolling through the historic center of the village.

Nature lovers cannot miss visiting the Ria de Alvor, an area of lagoons of international importance and a crossing point for several water birds.

Ria de Alvor an area of incredible marshes, with a huge biological diversity, wonderful view of a huge water mirror, good place for those who like to observe fauna and flora.

Nature lovers cannot miss visiting the Ria de Alvor, an area of lagoons of international importance and a crossing point for several water birds.

All the mentioned beaches have beach support: blue flag, nautical center, showers, lifeguard, first aid station, accessible beach, WC, covered area.

... RESTAURANTS ...

Faina is a riverside restaurant very close to ana-ana artistic habitat, a 6 minute walk.

In addition to being a very pleasant place you can taste flavors and wines from the Algarve prepared by Chef Emídio Freire.

Casa da Tocha is a gourmet portuguese tasca where you can have a great gastronomic experience 🍷

Is located in the center of the city (near by the mother church) and it's 10 minute walk from ana-ana artistic habitat.

Numa is a restaurant where you can find signature cuisine, right in the middle of Portimão (6 minute walk from ana-ana artistic habitat).

Restaurante O Ténis is an outdoor/indoor place where you can find the best grilled sardines and other fresh fishes, as well you can choose traditional meat or vegetarian dishes.

It's 5 minute walk from ana-ana artistic habitat.

Omakase Japanese Kitchen - Alvor (5km)

Wonderful sushi made only with the best fish by chef Arnaldo Gonçalves. It is located in Alvor (5km), the fishing village that you must visit.

Restaurante Ababuja - Alvor (5km)

Founded in 1992 by the Soares Brothers, with the mission of serving the freshest fish and seafood on our coast, as well as the typical specialties of the house.

Pizzaria L'Angolo - Alvor (5km)

It's a small place with a lot flavor... Pizza, Pasta and much more Italian style!

Restaurante O Morgadinho - Alvor (5km)

With an atmosphere and portuguese music (live music w/ accordionist), you can eat seafood,
typical portuguese food
and snacks.

Restaurante Sueste in Ferragudo (3,7km), it is a place where you can enjoy the freshest fish, grilled with knowledge and skill. In this space, at the mouth of the river Arade, with a privileged view of Portimão, the delicacies of the sea take on a gastronomic dimension that is simply unique in the Algarve.

Restaurante A Fábrica - 2 minute walk.

One of the best seafood in the Algarve with fresh seafood.

Lusana Restaurant - 6 minute walk.

Offer a wonderful menu with fresh meat and fish and a wide and good wine list, and the service is very personalized. It's worth visiting.

Bar Bacchus - 14Km - Porches

Small but very cozy space for a light meal, with fresh ingredients and very tasty.
The decor is typically Algarve, with the well-known pottery all over the space, from the tables to the walls. Great service and the staff was very friendly!
Definitely a place to go!

... WINE & FOOD ...

SIX WINERIES WITH RESTAURANT IN ALENTEJO

... PARTY & FOOD ...

Caniço Restaurant Bar - Prainha (5,4km)

Rustic Chic Restaurant & Bar within the cliffs and hovers above a picturesque cove
Mediterranean cuisine || Fine selection of wine & olive oils. The best DJs go to Caniço to the best party.

Club Nau - Ferragudo (5,7km) (Lagoa, our neighboring town)

With an excellent menu, Club Nau offers a unique gastronomic experience in Praia Grande in Ferragudo (from sushi to meat and seafood dishes). Every Sunday, we are used to the best party music concerts.

No Solo Água - 15 minute walk.

Beach & Pool | Restaurant & Bar

Japanese sushi
Bar by the sea
The Best Sunset & Night Parties

... TRADITIONAL PASTRIES ...

A Casa da Isabel - 8 minute walk.

At Casa da Isabel you can drink wonderful teas and eat traditional Portuguese sweets made in-house.

Pastelaria Arade - 8 minute walk.

Handmade pastry with quality products with local architecture.

Alcachofra Brava by As Moças - 8 minute walk.

Handmade cakes made with love, light meals, pancakes, juices, teas...

... COFFEE SHOPS WITH SUN & TERRACE...

Manuel Teixeira Gomes Square - 8 minute walk.

Was part of the Visconde de Bívar Gardens and here there are several coffee shops with terraces and homemade ice cream that you will love.

1st of December Garden - 8 minute walk.

And as you rest beneath the foliage you can also get a Portuguese history lesson, because when this square was remodeled in the Art Deco style in the 1930s tile panels were installed recording momentous events from Portugal’s past.

These recall the first Portuguese constitution in 1820, Pedro Álvares Cabral discovering Brazil in 1500, the foundation of the country with the Treaty of Zamora in 1143, and many more events.

A small garden located in front of the Municipal Theater of Portimão where there is a small terrace with great natural juices and coffee with milk (galão).

Portimão DownTown - 10 minute walk.

Brunch is the house specialty with colorful and tasty food, and the space is quite pleasant.

Café da Ria - Alvor (5km)

The wonderful view over the Ria de Alvor is simply impressive, accompanied by a cocktail or hot chocolate is a good experience to enjoy.

Bar 13 - Alvor (5km)

The esplanade is interior but full of color and life. The food is very good and the atmosphere is unique. It's worth visiting.

Ferragudo's Square - Ferragudo (5km)

This fishing village concentrates people in this square with lots of restaurants and coffee shops with terraces, where those who visits mingle with the local people.

... CULTURAL ...

Portimão Museum - 5 minute walk.

With a permanent exhibition on the canning industry, you will be able to visit a little of the life and habits of the people of Portimão. It is also possible to see art exhibitions and buy La Rose canned goods.

Tempo - Teatro Municipal de Portimão - 8 minute walk.

An old building refurbished where we can watch various musical, theater or dance shows.

Casa Manuel Teixeira Gomes - 8 minute walk.

In this 19th century building, Manuel Teixeira Gomes, a notable politician and writer, was born. It is a space of Culture and Art. With an Exhibition Room, Documentary Fund and Virtual Center, gatherings, recitals and exhibitions take place here.

Quinta Pedagógica de Portimão - (3,2km)

The pedagogical farm is a place where children can visit the farm animals, feed them and participate in activities, which are normally free.

... TRANSPORT & TRAVEL ...

EPI RENT A CAR

Epi rent a car has a fleet of 500 new vehicles, ranging from the cheapest to the most luxurious.

Their service are all over the Algarve and Faro Airport, as well as Lisbon and Porto Airports.

They offer customers the best price/quality/service ratio of rent a car services in the Algarve. They provide a high quality but informal service.

One Bike Rental

With a wide range of bikes, these professionals choose the best bike according to the customer's characteristics and at affordable prices. One Bike will take the bikes to our accommodation.

Táxi Arade

Taxis Arade has a 24/7 Taxi service in the municipalities of Portimao, Lagos, Lagoa, Silves and Vila do Bispo.

Contact +351 282460610

Táxi Ferry

Taxi at Rio Arade where you can pick up at Marina de Portimão (gate AB) or Portimão - Clube Naval to Ferragudo (stops at Sueste Restaurant). Prices are between 6€ and 8€ / children 5-7 years old have 50% discount and up to 4 years old is free. From 10 am to 5:30 pm.

Contact +351 927 272 784

... ACTIVITIES TO DO ...

Wild Watch

The boats that take us to explore the ocean! ...live unforgettable experiences in connection with nature, following a conservation perspective.

You can book for: Tour in the Benagil Caves; Wild Dolphins; Caves and Dolphins; Wild Dolphins.

Kitesurf - Alvor (5km)

Alvor welcomes thousands of kitesurf lovers every year. With AlvorKiteCenter you can rent equipment or buy surf lessons and other activities related to the sea.

Golf - click on the image to find golf courses in Portimão.

Green are the fields on the golf courses in Portimão, where you can focus on contact with nature, hiking, health, leisure and well-being. Close to the beaches but away from the hustle, here you will find peace and breadth of views.

Autódromo Municipal de Portimão - 16km

The Autódromo Internacional do Algarve is a 4,692 km (2,916 mi) racing circuit located in Portimão. It included a karting track, an off-road track, a technology park, a five-star hotel, a sports complex and apartments.

Also known as AIA Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, it was known for hosting the 2020 Formula 1 World Championship won by Lewis Hamilton who broke the race track record with 1:16.652.

... DAILY SHOPPING ...

Mercado Municipal de Portimão - 15 minute walk.

A must-see for anyone looking for the highest quality fresh produce of the day, coming directly from the sea and the vegetable garden, with that very special service.

The best time to come is Saturdays from 07:00 to 14:00 when there’s also a special farmers’ market.

O Pão da Manuela - Across the street.

Bakery with a wide choice of delicious different breads as well as cookies, traditional Portuguese cakes and a wonderful coffee.

Ervanária Universo - 8 minute walk.

Herbal shop, with dietetics, organic food, nutritional supplements, gluten-free products, medicinal plants...

Great service!

Pingo Doce

Pingo Doce is a Portuguese supermarket chain. It is a brand belonging to the Jerónimo Martins Group, present mainly in urban areas. We have a supermarket almost next door to our accommodation.

... SOME PORTUGUESE WORDS ...

Bom dia/Boa tarde/Boa noite — Good morning/afternoon/night
Olá — Hello
Alô/Está lá — Hello (on the phone)
Tchau — Bye
Até logo! — See you later!
Até amanhã — See you tomorrow
Adeus — Goodbye (formal)
Tudo bem? — How are you?
Como vais? — How’s it going?
Eu estou bem, e tu, como estás? — I’m good, how are you?

Por favor — Please
Com licença — Excuse me
Obrigado/Obrigada — Thank you
De nada — You’re welcome
Desculpa — I’m sorry
Perdão — Forgive me/pardon me
Prazer — Nice to meet you
O senhor/a senhora — Formal way of saying “you” when addressing a man (senhor) or a woman (senhora)

For example: O senhor/a senhora poderia me ajudar? — Would you be able to help me?

O senhor/a senhora Fala inglês? — Do you speak English?
Alguém aqui fala inglês? — Does anyone here speak English?
Não compreendo — I don’t understand
Eu compreendo — I understand
Não entendi — I didn’t understand [what you said]
Entendi — I understood/I understand (the past in this sense is used as an affirmation)
Eu não sei — I don’t know
Como se diz… em Português? — How do you say … in Portuguese?
Fale mais devagar, por favor — Please speak more slowly

Onde fica a casa de banho? — Where is the bathroom?
Quanto custa? — How much does this cost?
Que horas são? — What time is it?
Que horas abre/fecha? — What time does this place open/close?
Para onde vai este comboio/autocarro/barco? — Where does this train/bus/boat go?
Como chego ao (à)… — How do I get to…?
Você pode me mostrar no mapa? — Could you show me on the map?
Como te chamas/Qual é o teu nome? — What is your name?
Chamo-me…/O meu nome é... — My name is…

Tenho saudades tuas— I miss you Eu estou doente — I’m sick Preciso da tua ajuda — I need your help Sim/não — Yes/no Quando? — When? Por quê? — Why? Vamos! — Let’s go!