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A passion for donkeys & art

Burros

&

Artes

A passion for donkeys & art

Touching grass with the donkeys and touching soil with the art

We are the team at Burros e Artes, passionate about sharing the beauty of the Algarve through creative workshops and immersive donkey treks. Together, we offer visitors hands-on experiences that connect them with nature, local culture, and their own creativity.

Sofia

Sofia

Co-Founder & Donkey Trekking Expert

Sofia is a passionate donkey advocate. Her love for these gentle and curious animals, combined with a deep connection to the natural beauty of the Western Algarve, inspired her to design unique donkey trekking experiences in this stunning region.

While living here for 20 years, Sofia developed an expert understanding of the area's diverse trekking routes, from the rugged coastline to the peaceful inland trails.

Since she handed over her project to Steffi in January of '24, her vision continues to shape the immersive donkey experiences offered at Burros & Artes, blending nature, local culture, and adventure - all while celebrating the charm of the donkeys.

Sofia's legacy is about more than the tour; it's about reconnecting with nature, discovering the Algarve's hidden gems, its rural history where donkeys had a central role, and more: Experiencing donkeys is about reconnecting with oneself, embracing the creative expression of life in all its forms.

Sofia's warm, knowledgeable approach has left a lasting impact on everyone who has had the pleasure of trekking with her (and the donkeys).

Steffi Donkey Centre Manager & Tour Guide

Steffi

Donkey Centre Manager & Tour Guide

Steffi has been at the heart of the Burros e Artes donkey centre since May 2014, continuing the valuable work Sofia began with these gentle animals. A passionate tour guide, Steffi combines her deep love for nature, animals, and people to create unforgettable experiences for visitors.

Having lived in Aljezur for over 15 years, Steffi has an intimate knowledge of the local flora, fauna, and the rich Portuguese traditions and culture that define the region. Her tours are not only informative but also infused with her personal connection to the land and its history, making every visit a special journey into the heart of rural Portugal.

Steffi's warm personality and expertise ensure that every tour feels unique, whether you're learning about the donkeys, exploring the surrounding landscape, or diving into local customs. Her dedication to both the animals and the region shines through, offering visitors an authentic and enriching experience.

Elsa Co-Founder & Artisan Ceramist

Elsa

Co-Founder & Artisan Ceramist

Elsa Ribeiro, a ceramicist and artisan, has been co-creator of the Burros e Artes tourism project with Sofia since 2008.

Passionate about ceramics, Elsa offers workshops in traditional arts and crafts, especially pottery. Handicrafts have become the perfect complement to her new life, her unique pieces, inspired by the lush nature of this region, its customs and traditions, meticulously crafted with care, reflect her passion for art and her deep bond with her surroundings, resulting in creations that capture the simplicity, essence and authentic beauty of Aljezur, the Algarve and Portugal.

In 2000, Elsa left Lisbon and moved to Aljezur in search of a life closer to nature. Since then, she has lived in harmony with the beauty and tranquillity of the place, discovering simplicity and serenity.

André Ceramist & Workshop Leader

André

Ceramist & Workshop Leader

André is a talented ceramist and experienced teacher with a unique background in civil construction technical drawing. His journey with clay began in 2005, inspired by his mother Elsa's passion for the art, but it wasn't until 2019 that his curiosity blossomed into a deep exploration of various ceramic techniques.

Since joining Burros e Artes in 2022, André has dedicated himself to running workshops and classes that guide participants through their own creative processes. His hands-on, interactive approach helps people of all skill levels feel comfortable working with clay, making each workshop an enjoyable and enriching experience.

André's love for ceramics and teaching shines through in every session, where he creates an environment that encourages creativity, learning, and personal expression. Whether you're a beginner or experienced artist, his workshops offer a unique opportunity to explore the world of ceramics in a fun and supportive setting.

Tine Tour Guide & animal assisted pedagogue

Tine

Tour Guide & animal assisted pedagogue

Tine brings a unique blend of expertise as both a tour guide and animal-assisted pedagogue to Burros e Artes. Her specialized training in animal-assisted education allows her to create meaningful connections between visitors and our donkeys, making each interaction both educational and therapeutic.

With her gentle approach and deep understanding of animal behavior, Tine expertly guides visitors of all ages in building trust and forming bonds with our donkeys. Her tours are thoughtfully designed to incorporate both fun and learning, helping participants discover the natural wisdom and healing presence these remarkable animals offer.

Whether working with children, families, or individuals seeking a deeper connection with nature, Tine's professional background in animal-assisted pedagogy enriches every experience. Her dedication to both the well-being of the donkeys and the growth of our visitors makes her tours particularly special, offering insights into the powerful relationship between humans and animals.

Bao Facility Manager

Bao

Facility Manager

As our versatile caretaker, Bao is the backbone of our project's infrastructure. With his extensive skills as a carpenter, blacksmith, clay builder, facility manager, and much more, he ensures everything runs smoothly. His expertise in traditional crafts and maintenance makes him an invaluable member of our team.

Wanna join our team?