Three Portuguese villages — Loriga, Mértola, and Vila Nogueira de Azeitão — have been recognised by the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) in the 5th edition of its Best Tourism Villages awards.
In addition, Quintadona, in the municipality of Penafiel, was selected for the organisation’s Upgrade Programme, which supports rural areas with strong potential for sustainable tourism growth.
The Best Tourism Villages network now includes around 200 destinations worldwide, among them several Portuguese winners from previous years such as Óbidos, Ericeira, Castelo Rodrigo, and Manteigas. Ferraria de São João and Vila de Frades are also part of the Upgrade Programme.
Carlos Abade, president of Turismo de Portugal, described the recognition as a reflection of Portugal’s “rich national heritage and community spirit.”
He emphasised that true competitiveness in tourism comes from “balanced development across all regions,” noting that decentralisation and diversification remain key priorities for the national tourism board.
Paul Stannard, Chairman and Founder of Portugal Pathways and the Portugal Investment Owners Club, said: “Accolades like this highlight the growing value of investing beyond Portugal’s main cities.
“With programmes such as the Golden Visa encouraging sustainable investments in regional growth, destinations like Loriga and Mértola show how investment can help preserve tradition while shaping the future of rural Portugal.”
The UN Tourism initiative honours rural destinations that demonstrate strong tourism potential and contribute to local economic and social progress, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Alongside the accolade, the Best Tourism Village seal — valid for three years — helps strengthen community engagement, enhance the visibility of rural destinations, and encourage the international exchange of sustainable tourism practices.
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About Portugal Investment Owners Club
The Portugal Investment Owners Club, or P Club for short, is a unique investor membership community designed for discerning individuals, families, and organisations committed to exploring and capitalising on life in Portugal and enjoying money-can't-buy experiences and exclusive events.
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.
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