Who we are
Várzeapoética is a non-profit association founded in Lisbon in November 2025. We develop non-formal learning that brings together poetry and free writing, walking, nature and healthy living.
Our main area of work is the Costa Vicentina around Aljezur, in the west of the Algarve. We work with young people and young adults and with those who support them: youth workers, educators and facilitators. We pay particular attention to people with fewer opportunities.
The name joins two words: várzea, the fertile land by rivers and the sea, and poética, attention to what we see, feel and can put into words.
Writing
Poetry and free writing as a way of expression. No experience needed, just the wish to look and listen.
Walking
The path as a learning space: attention, rhythm, silence and group, step by step along the Atlantic.
Caring
Balanced food, movement and rest as the basis of well-being. We promise no cure and do not replace therapy.
Tudo vale a pena
Se a alma não é pequena.
A young association with an experienced team
The association was founded on 12 November 2025. As an organisation, it has not yet carried out an Erasmus+ project.
We build on the personal experience of our members. Founder Axel Bergdolt has lived in Portugal since 2006, where for several years he ran a weekly open kitchen. Before that he ran a seminar centre in France from 1993 to 2006, and since 2023 he has worked as a cook and trainer in Erasmus+ courses. We keep this personal experience clearly separate from the association's own track record.
Current
In September 2026 we submitted our first Erasmus+ application: “The Nature of Poetry”, a ten-day training for 28 youth workers from eight countries on the Fishermen's Trail between Odeceixe and Carrapateira in September 2027. A decision is pending.