Portugal’s tourism sector is set to receive a significant boost as the government announces a €7 million investment aimed at supporting rural tourism projects. This initiative is designed to diversify the country’s tourism offerings and reduce the historical concentration of tourist activities along the coast.
Background of the Initiative
The announcement was made by Pedro Machado, the Secretary of State for Tourism, during a ceremony in Almodôvar, Beja. He emphasized the need to broaden the scope of tourism in Portugal, which has traditionally been focused on coastal regions. The initiative aims to create a more balanced tourism landscape by promoting rural areas that often experience lower tourist traffic.
Details of the Investment
The total investment for the initiative, known as the Linha +Interior Turismo, amounts to approximately €10 million, with the government providing nearly €7 million in direct support. This funding is intended to enhance tourism offerings in regions characterized by low population density.
Goals of the Initiative
The primary goals of this investment include:
- Creating Unique Tourism Offerings: Developing tourism products that reflect the unique characteristics of rural territories.
- Generating New Business Models: Encouraging innovative business models that can thrive in these areas.
- Attracting New Markets: Targeting international markets, particularly from the United States and Germany, which show interest in rural tourism experiences.
First Projects Funded
The first three contracts under this initiative were signed recently, representing a total investment of €1.3 million, with approximately €800,000 funded by Turismo de Portugal. The projects include:
- Rota dos Saberes e Sabores de Almodôvar: A culinary and cultural route designed to showcase local traditions and flavors.
- Campervan Service Area: A new service area for campervans in Barrancos, featuring six parking spots to accommodate travelers.
- Dark Sky Alqueva Observatory Expansion: Enhancements to the existing observatory in Reguengos de Monsaraz, aimed at promoting stargazing tourism.
Future Plans
The government plans to continue signing contracts for additional projects under the Linha +Interior Turismo. Upcoming ceremonies are scheduled in Viana do Castelo and Sever do Vouga, where more initiatives will be unveiled to further support rural tourism development.
This investment marks a significant step towards revitalizing rural areas in Portugal, ensuring that tourism benefits a broader range of communities and contributes to sustainable economic growth across the country.
