The Romance Behind Nana - Two Hearts One Story

Two and a half years ago, the threads of fate brought Alina and Tina together in Portugal, each unknowingly stepping toward a shared dream. Alina had already settled in the coastal village of Ribamar, Ericeira, with her beloved dog, Ella. Drawn to the calm of the ocean, she had come to live closer to the shore. Tina, meanwhile, was traveling in her van with her wonderful dog, Onda, trying to listen to the whispers of her heart, unsure whether she was meant to call Portugal her home.

One day, Tina arrived in Ericeira, questioning whether to stay or leave again. With no plans or direction, she wandered into the village. By chance, she came across an advertisement for a room available in a flat -Alina’s flat. The two decided to meet at the beach for a dog walk. All four immediately connected, the two dogs happily running and playing alongside, Tina and Alina ended up talking about life for hours and hours. There was an instant bond, a sense of familiarity, as though the universe had conspired to bring them together. They didn’t know it yet, but the beginning of a profound friendship had been written in the stars.

Meet Tina & Onda

Though Tina did not end up moving in, the bond they shared continued to grow. They spoke daily, delving into their lives and their stories, and soon realized they were both seeking something deeply similar - a space where the spirit of surf, yoga, and connection could thrive. They dreamed of creating a sanctuary, a place where people could come together to nourish their bodies, minds, and souls - sharing their passions, experiences, and the love they had for the world around them. A space where good food, the taste of fresh coffee, the flow of yoga, the rhythm of music, the energy of the ocean, and the joy of dancing could all coexist in harmony.

Together, they began searching for a place to call their own. And then, one day, they found it—a hidden gem, waiting for them. It was as though the universe had arranged everything perfectly, without the need for a grand plan or intricate design. The house they discovered whispered the promise of something special, something deeply meaningful. Negotiations, paperwork, and bureaucracy took time, but slowly, steadily, Nana House began to take shape.

Meet Alina

Why “Nana”? The name felt like a natural fit. Initially, they wanted to create something that reflected their names - Tina and Alina - but in the end, "Nana" captured the essence of what they wished to create. Like grandmothers, they wanted to make people feel at home, to care for them with the kind of tenderness and warmth that only family can offer. Both of them shared a deep connection with their grandmothers, and it seemed no coincidence that Alina visited the house for the first time on Tina’s grandmother's birthday.

The house itself had once served as a residence for elderly women, and to this day, you can still feel the quiet, caring energy that lingers within its walls. There is a calm, almost sacred presence in the air - a reminder that Nana House is more than just a space; it is a place of comfort, healing, and love. Every room, every corner, every detail has been shaped by the intention to offer sanctuary and to share in the joy of life’s simple pleasures.

Nana House is not just a retreat but a home. A place where people are welcomed with open arms and hearts, where the practice of yoga, the sound of waves, the warmth of good company, and the shared love of life create something magical, something whole.