.jpg)
It means the nation ranks among the world’s very best.
To earn a Blue Flag, beaches must meet strict standards covering water quality, environmental management, safety, services, and public environmental education.
It once again reaffirms the country’s strong environmental credentials.
The announcement was made at the Pedra do Sal Environmental Interpretation Centre in Cascais by José Archer, president of Europe’s Blue Flag Association, who confirmed that 396 beaches have been recognised for the upcoming bathing season.
Of these, 350 are coastal and 46 are inland locations.
While slightly down on last year, Archer says the marginal decline in awards is attributed to last summer’s weather conditions, which affected bathing water quality.
He stressed this was no cause for concern but rather a temporary fluctuation.
Portugal continues to stand out globally. The country ranks fifth worldwide for coastal Blue Flag beaches and holds second place for inland bathing areas.
Archer highlighted that this success reflects both sustained environmental efforts and increased public awareness.
This year also marks the 40th anniversary of the Blue Flag programme. Notably, Praia de Mira remains the only beach to have maintained the distinction every year since the initiative began, aside from a nationwide interruption in 1992 due to a laboratory strike.
Several new beaches have joined the list, including northern additions such as Foz do Lima and Rodanho, as well as inland sites like Ribeira Grande in Sertã.
In the Algarve, Albufeira de Odeleite and Praia do Lago Verde have been newly recognised.
The first Blue Flags will be raised on June 8 at Praia de Mira, followed by ceremonies at inland and marina sites in the days after.
This is good news for Portugal and its growing sustainable tourism sector which is being supported by the country’s Golden Visa programme.
Applicants can invest a minimum of €500,000 in eligible alternative investment funds, many of which focus on Portugal’s key growth sectors.
Paul Sheedy, special advisor at the Portugal Future Fund, an alternative investment fund approved for Portugal’s Golden Visa programme, said: “Golden Visa investors are supporting economic growth, boosting industries such as hospitality, tourism, renewable energy, tech, as well as media and international events.
“These investors are supporting Portugal’s continued growth while securing benefits for themselves and their families.”
About Portugal Pathways
Portugal Pathways has supported hundreds of Golden Visa residency-by-investment applications and provides expert guidance through its professional supply chain network on estate planning, wealth management, Golden Visa and tax optimisation, including post-NHR / IFICI tax regime planning, as well as private healthcare, money transfers and bespoke relocation and luxury real estate solutions to enhance life and investment in Portugal
Disclaimer: The information on the Portugal Pathways and Portugal Investment Owners Club (P Club for short) websites and in email communications is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax, or financial advice. You should consult and check with a qualified professional advisor before relying on any information provided on this website or in email communications. As it relates to investments in Golden Visas or other wealth management solutions offered by regulated and professional advisors, it is important to note that past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Private equities can be highly illiquid and come with risk and should always be under professional independent advice. Golden Visa investments need to be held for 6 to 7 years to allow for permanent citizenship/passport in the EU.
.jpg)
