Did you know that Portugal boasts some of the most extraordinary stargazing opportunities in Europe? With its diverse terrain, ranging from towering mountains to remote islands in the Atlantic, Portugal offers a variety of unique locations where the stars shine brightly, far from the light pollution of urban centers.
The country’s commitment to preserving these dark skies has led to the creation of specific stargazing reserves and a growing interest in astrotourism. In this article, we will explore seven of the best places for stargazing in Portugal, including must-visit spots in Madeira and the Azores. These locations combine the beauty of the natural world with the wonder of the universe.
1. Alqueva Dark Sky Reserve, Alentejo
The Alqueva Dark Sky Reserve stands out not only for its breathtaking stargazing potential but also for its dedication to dark sky preservation. The region around Lake Alqueva has been meticulously protected from light pollution, which allows visitors to experience the night sky as it was meant to be seen—clear, dark, and filled with stars. The reserve spans over 3,000 square kilometers and encompasses several towns and villages that have embraced this commitment to maintaining pristine night skies.
Furthermore, the Alqueva Dark Sky Reserve is recognized by the Starlight Foundation, which has awarded it with the Starlight Tourism Destination certification. This recognition highlights the reserve’s commitment to sustainable tourism and astronomy education. Throughout the year, the region hosts various events including stargazing parties and astronomical workshops, which cater to all levels of interest—from novices to seasoned astronomers. The combination of professional guidance, high-quality telescopes, and some of the darkest skies in Europe makes Alqueva our top destination in Portugal for anyone interested in exploring the wonders of the universe.
Stargazing at Alqueva Dark Sky Reserve, Tiago Ribeiro, Flickr
2. Serra da Estrela, Central Portugal
Serra da Estrela is the highest mountain range in mainland Portugal and offers an extraordinary stargazing experience due to its altitude and isolation. The crisp mountain air and lack of light pollution provide an ideal setting for viewing the night sky. Visitors to Serra da Estrela can expect to see a sky teeming with stars, where constellations, planets, and even meteor showers can be observed with remarkable clarity. The range also hosts a network of hiking trails, which during the day, provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and by night, become the perfect spots for setting up a telescope or simply lying back to enjoy the celestial display.
Beyond the natural beauty and clear skies, Serra da Estrela is also known for its local culture and traditions. After an evening of stargazing, visitors can sample regional delicacies like Serra da Estrela cheese and relax in cozy mountain lodges. This blend of nature and culture creates a truly memorable visit for anyone looking to explore the stars.
The Milky Way over Serra da Estrela, Rodolfo X. O. Ferreira, Wikimedia Commons
3. Paúl da Serra, Madeira
Paúl da Serra, located on Madeira’s western plateau, is one of the island’s most unique and captivating locations for stargazing. This vast, flat expanse at an altitude of around 1,500 meters offers uninterrupted views of the night sky. Paúl da Serra’s remote location means it is free from the light pollution that affects more populated areas, making it an ideal spot to observe the Milky Way, constellations, and meteor showers. The plateau’s isolation and high elevation provide exceptionally clear skies, often above the cloud cover that can obscure lower areas of the island.
Paúl da Serra is also known for its unique microclimate, where weather conditions can change rapidly, so keep that in mind. The plateau’s barren yet beautiful landscape, combined with the clarity of the night sky, makes it a perfect location for both amateur astronomers and those simply seeking a quiet place to connect with the cosmos in the middle of the Atlantic.
Paúl da Serra, Madeira, Stephen Colebourne, Wikimedia Commons
4. Peneda-Gerês National Park, Northern Portugal
Peneda-Gerês National Park is a place full of natural beauty both day and night. By day, the park is known for its rugged mountains, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls. By night, it transforms into a stargazer’s paradise, where the lack of urban light pollution allows the stars to shine in all their glory. Specific locations within the park, such as Porta do Mezio, are particular favorites for stargazing, offering clear skies that are perfect for catching celestial highlights like meteor showers and the Milky Way.
The park’s remote location makes it a unique spot for stargazing. For those looking to combine a love of nature with a passion for astronomy, Peneda-Gerês National Park is one of our favorites.
Peneda-Geres National Park. Photo by Micael Rodrigues (Unsplash)
5. Serra da Malcata, Central Portugal
Serra da Malcata is an often-overlooked stargazing gem in central Portugal. This remote mountain range in the Guarda district is a nature lover’s paradise for those seeking solitude. The region’s isolation means there is virtually no light pollution, making the night sky here incredibly dark and perfect for observing galaxies, nebulae, and constellations.
In addition to its stargazing potential, Serra da Malcata is also known for its rich biodiversity. The area is a protected reserve, home to a variety of wildlife including the Iberian lynx, one of the most endangered species in Europe. This makes a stargazing trip to Serra da Malcata a unique opportunity to have a truly meditative experience with nature that is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life.
6. Fanal, Madeira
Fanal, a mystical laurel forest located in northwest Madeira, is one of the island’s most enchanting spots for stargazing. The ancient trees, often shrouded in mist during the day, clear up at night to reveal a dark, star-filled sky. The unique setting of twisted laurel trees against the backdrop of the Milky Way creates a surreal and unforgettable experience. Fanal is less accessible than Paúl da Serra, requiring a bit of a trek, but the journey is well worth it for the serene and otherworldly stargazing opportunities it offers.
Visiting Fanal is like stepping into another world. The forest, which is part of the UNESCO Laurisilva of Madeira, is a type of laurel forest that once covered much of Southern Europe. At night, this ancient landscape takes on an ethereal quality. For those who enjoy photography, Fanal offers a unique opportunity to capture stunning images of the Milky Way framed by these iconic trees. The combination of natural beauty and dark skies makes Fanal a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about stargazing.
Fanal Forest, Madeira before the mist clear and the stars come out, Philip Slotte, Flickr
7. Montanha do Pico, Azores
In the Azores, Montanha do Pico on Pico Island is an unrivaled stargazing destination. As the highest peak in Portugal, standing at 2,351 meters, it offers an extraordinary vantage point for observing the night sky. The mountain’s isolation in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean means there is virtually no light pollution, making the stars appear incredibly bright and close. The site is also a favorite for astrophotographers, who come to capture stunning images of the Milky Way and other celestial phenomena. Hiking up Montanha do Pico to watch the stars is a challenging but rewarding adventure for any stargazing enthusiast.
The ascent to the summit of Montanha do Pico is an experience in itself. Hikers often start their journey in the late afternoon to reach the summit by sunset, setting up camp for a night in the crater under the stars. The effort is well worth it, as the clear skies offer an unrivaled view of the cosmos.
The island of Pico, as seen from the north-west coast in the outskirts of Madalena with vineyards and Mount Pico in the background, JCNazza, Wikimedia Commons
Final Thoughts
Portugal’s varied landscapes provide an abundance of opportunities for stargazing, from the mountains of Madeira to the volcanic peaks of the Azores and the vast plains of Alentejo. With its clear skies and minimal light pollution, Portugal is truly a haven for those who wish to connect with the universe.
It has been busy at the Portuguese Association of Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies (APBC). “We must have thousands of emails with fraud complaints and requests for information,” said Fred Antunes, founder of the APBC and the president of its General Assembly. But this is just the visible tip of the crypto iceberg. The iceberg below the surface reveals that fraud and cryptocurrency misplacement complaints already exceed 25 million euros in total. There’s talk of a case leading to a 6 million euro loss. At the National Unit for Combating Cybercrime and Technological Crime of the Judicial Police (UNC3T), the numbers are alarming: “From 2022 until now, around 3,000 inquiries related to crypto assets have been opened,” says Carlos Cabreiro, UNC3T’s director.
The cryptocurrency circuit has had a recent surge in losses and fraud. According to Fred Antunes, “It can all start with a phone call attempting to solicit investments in cryptocurrencies allegedly promoted by a celebrity.” These callers exhibit a level of professionalism comparable to those selling new telecommunications contracts, but the goal remains the same: investment in cryptocurrencies through exchanges or brokers that may not even exist. Additionally, there is misleading advertising spread through social networks, television and radio channels, and newspapers.
For your information, here are the most common types of fraud:
Fake platforms: These proliferate with ads that use images of celebrities without their knowledge or consent. Once investments are made, they present charts with gains that don’t correspond to reality to encourage further investments. Generally, withdrawal requests are followed by a hefty fee, which serves as the last part of the theft. The likelihood of a refund is slim, and even if there is a refund, the fee is lost.
Credential theft: This involves malicious codes that infect computers and phones or alerts via email, SMS, WhatsApp, or phone from fake cybersecurity experts who, in reality, are cybercriminals seeking access to cryptocurrency wallet credentials.
Unprofitable crypto: Cryptocurrencies proliferated in the past decade (in Portugal, the crypto escudo was possibly the first). They can vary with supply and demand, but they are not supervised. Some cryptocurrencies, while not illegal, lose value, but there are also cryptocurrencies created solely to divert money with a worthless product.
A factor that makes these cases particularly troubling is that many people do not understand how crypto assets work and/or are simply willing to invest all their savings when confronted with promises of extraordinary returns. In these scenarios, nothing prevents someone from posing as a broker or exchange agent and contacting consumers from the other side of the globe with supposed financial applications that promise extraordinary returns, which are specifically designed to encourage victims to invest more.
“Fake crypto asset investment platforms have mushroomed in Europe and around the world,” confirms Cláudia Pina, a Portuguese judge working as a seconded expert at Eurojust.
At the Bank of Portugal, requests for information and clarification have increased in priority. The Bank provides a page identifying companies registered to operate in Portugal and also recommends consulting the CMVM (Securities Market Commission) to verify the credibility of intermediaries that advertise different services on the web. However, between 2022 and today, the Bank of Portugal has opened more than 100 investigations into entities operating irregularly in Portugal. Most were referred to the Public Prosecutor’s Office, according to Bank officials. These cases include reinventions of the famous Ponzi schemes, but there are also investments that were never made or were directed towards non-existent currencies.
As cryptocurrencies have become part of routine investment strategies, some crypto fortunes have been made but also many fortunes have been lost in the form of bankruptcy – something that would be impossible without blockchain technology. The visibility it provides enhances trust but does not guarantee security. It is possible to track which machines contribute to each process, but there’s a catch. According to Cláudia Pina, “Even if you can identify which transaction was made, there is no guarantee that the individuals who conducted the transactions can be identified.”
To complicate matters, cybercriminals use mixers and tumblers that function as convenient exchange houses to convert a certain amount into different cryptocurrencies. According to Nuno Serdoura, a prosecutor at the Public Prosecutor’s Office, Portuguese authorities lack training and tools for automated cryptocurrency transaction tracking. Carlos Cabreiro denies such a thing, although he admits that the “abnormal case boom of the last two years” led to the creation of a specialized group for investigating crypto assets within UNC3T.
Note that there has also been encouragement for the establishment of groups to investigate crypto assets in different departments of the Judiciary Police, and in parallel, training has been provided to more than 120 professionals with accredited platforms for exchanging and making transactions with different cryptocurrencies, such as Binance or Coinbase, or authorities such as Europol, the FBI, or American intelligence services.
Considering the number and context of these alarming cases, there is at least one good piece of news on the horizon: the European Regulation on Crypto Asset Markets (MiCA) is expected to come into force at the end of the year. Even though it only expressively legislates stablecoins, it is the first step towards further legislation of crypto.
The workers of the Agency for Integration Migration and Asylum (AIMA) released a pre-warning of overtime strike with a timeline that stretches from August 22 to December 31.
According to the National Federation of Unions in Public and Social Functions, the entity that called for the strike, the lack of human resources (workers), and the ongoing recruitment process are the main reasons for the decision.
The Agency, which was created last year to replace SEF (Foreigners and Borders Service), has been struggling with work since then. There are more than 400,000 pending processes and the workers are overloaded, with some already in burnout.
Considering that we’re still in the transition process from one agency to another, issues were likely to arise. However, in this case, according to the sources, it is unbearable. The workers have already expressed their concerns and conditions, but, according to the Federation of Unions, the response was a completely opaque recruitment process.
Given the importance of the situation and the current context of the country in terms of immigration, this “lack of transparency” cannot be an answer. Meanwhile, the number of pending processes and new migrants only increases. As a result, the workers sent a pre-warning for the overtime strike. They want to be heard but will not stop the agency from functioning.
According to the real estate company Idealista, during the start of 2024, the Portuguese renting market witnessed an increase in the number of new contracts. Together with the lack of supply, this increase in demand led to another increase in rental prices – this time, a total increase of 9.1%.
Below is a comparison of the prices between July 2023 and July 2024, made according to three different optics – cities, districts, regions.
When it comes to cities, taking 14 district capitals as a representative sample, it is possible to observe that rental prices increased in 12 of the 14 cities – in Coimbra by 18.3%, Viseu by 14.3%, Faro by 13.7%, Porto by 12.3%, Braga by 11.9%, Castelo Branco by 11%, Setúbal by 8.4%, Lisbon by 8.1%, Leiria by 7.6%, Funchal by 5.2%, Aveiro by 4.4%, and Santarém by 4.2%. The only registered decreases were in Évora (-3%) and Viana do Castelo (-1.5%).
Accordingly, analyzing the overall prices and not just the selected timeframe, the six most expensive cities, in terms of rents, are: Lisbon (21.7 euros per square meter), Porto (17.4 euros per square meter), Funchal (14.1 euros per square meter), Faro (12.7 euros per square meter), Setúbal (11.9 euros per square meter), and Aveiro (11.7 euros per square meter). The six less expensive are as follows: Castelo Branco (6.5 euros per square meter), Viseu (7.3 euros per square meter), Viana do Castelo (8.1 euros per square meter), Leiria (8.2 euros per square meter), and Santarém (8.3 euros per square meter).
Out of the 17 districts and islands that were analyzed, over the last year, only three had a decrease in rental prices. Viana do Castelo (-4.4%), Vila Real (-3.7%), Évora (-2.4%), and Madeira Island (-0.7%). On the other hand, following the trend, the prices in the other 13 increased – in Beja by 16.4%, Viseu by 15.8%, Castelo Branco by 14.2%, Santarém by 13.7%, Coimbra by 13.5%, Porto by 13.1%, Setúbal by 9.9%, Leiria by 8.2%, Braga by 7.7%, Lisbon by 7.2%, Aveiro also by 7.2%, Faro by 5.1%, and Portalegre by 5%.
According to the overall prices, the four most expensive districts and/or islands are: Lisbon (19.9 euros per square meter), Porto (15.4 euros per square meter), Faro (14.4 euros per square meter), and Madeira Island (13.6 euros per square meter). On the contrary, the four less expensive are: Portalegre (6 euros per square meter), Vila Real (6.3 euros per square meter), Castelo Branco (7.1 euros per square meter), and Viseu (7.4 euros per square meter).
Finally, in terms of regions, during the last year, prices increased in 5 of the 6 that were considered – in the North by 12.6%, in the Center by 11%, in the Greater Lisbon Area by 8%, in the Algarve by 5.1%, and in Alentejo by 4.3%. The Autonomous Region of Madeira was the only one that did not have an increase, stabilizing at 0.5% instead.
This means that the Greater Lisbon Area remains the most expensive region at 19.3 euros per square meter, followed by the Algarve at 14.4 euros per square meter, the North at 14.1 euros per square meter, and the Autonomous Region of Madeira at 13.6 euros per square meter. On the other hand, the cheapest are the Center (9.3 euros per square meter) and Alentejo (9.9 euros per square meter).
The Assumption of the Virgin Mary is celebrated in Portugal on August 15th as a national holiday. According to Catholic tradition, the Virgin Mary was taken up to heaven, body and soul, to join her son, Jesus Christ. The Virgin Mary is more than a respected and beloved religious figure in Portugal; she is revered as the queen of Portugal and connected with key events in the country’s fight for independence.
As part of the celebrations for August 15th, feasts are held in local churches and an annual festival known as Romaria is held in several locations across Portugal. The festivities include brass bands, drums, and traditional Galician bagpipes, while images of Mary, Queen of Angels, are crowned in churches.
For those visiting or living in Lisbon, there are four places to catch the August 15th celebrations in the Municipality of Mafra: Barreiralva, Monte Bom, Enxara do Bispo, and Cheleiros. The events include pilgrimages and masses, culminating in community parties where locals share food and regional products.
A traditional treat during these celebrations is the “parrameiro,” a unique sweet bread that stands out from everyday bread due to its enriched dough made with eggs, sugar, and aromatic ingredients. It is widely popular throughout Mafra and known by various names such as the bride and groom cake, party cake, cargo cake, fogaça, or horseshoe. Despite its variations in composition, texture, and shape, the “horseshoe” form is most common.
The recipe for this sweet bread has evolved over the years. Originally sweetened with honey, it is now made with sugar. Traditionally, it was baked at home with great care in wood-fired ovens and often placed on fig leaves to enhance flavor and prevent ash contamination.
Because August 15th is celebrated during one of the biggest holiday periods in Portugal, the beaches are also usually full. Whether you spend the holiday at church or at the beach, we hope you enjoy the holiday!
Looking for the ultimate in relaxation? Our guide to Portugal’s best spas has you covered. From island retreats on the Azores to quiet mountain towns in the Algarve, these spa towns offer relaxing getaways from the everyday routine in Portugal. Portugal’s hot springs, or “termas,” have been known for their health benefits for centuries and provide a comprehensive wellness experience. Portugal’s spas do not provide the lush facilities of Thailand, Bali, or Switzerland, but they do allow visitors to step back in time and admire the charm of slower-paced life. So, slow down, sit back, and enjoy these Portuguese six spa towns.
1. Caldas de Monchique
The village of Caldas de Monchique is a 10-minute drive from the enchanting town of Monchique in the northern Algarve. These baths are renowned for their mineral-rich waters, high in bicarbonates, sodium, and fluorine, which provide therapeutic benefits for muscular pain, diseases, and respiratory illnesses. Visitors can get spa treatments if they stay in the 5-star Monchique Resort & Spa and and/or enjoy a swim in one of two outdoor swimming pools. You can also just visit the small town of Caldas de Monchique as part of your visit to Monchique. In this case, you can take a drink from the Fonte os Amores and walk along the stream to a small church dedicated to Saint Theresa.
The water from Monchique has a pH of 9.5 and is some of the most alkaline in the world. Due to its high quality, Monchique also bottles and sells its water throughout Portugal. So, if you don’t take a dip in the water, you can at least take a sip! Whether you go for a spa treatment, visit one of the art galleries, or hike along one of its many hiking trails, you are certainly in for a treat if you visit Monchique.
Our next destination takes us to another part of Portugal entirely – the breathtaking Azores, specifically the town of Furnas on São Miguel Island. The volcanic origins of the island create a thermal paradise, with Furnas featuring steamy, iron-rich pools surrounded by lush vegetation and tropical trees. There are a few hot springs in the area, but Parque Terra Nostra is a highlight due to its rich history and iconic thermal pool full of natural iron-rich water. The water temperature is right around 37 °C (98.6 °F), which makes for a very pleasant experience.
Ten minutes down the road from Parque Terra Nostra is a more modern but equally pleasant experience at Poça da Dona Beija, where you can gaze out at the tropical scenery while soaking in four different hot pools at slightly different temperatures. Trips here need to be booked in advance and, due to the popularity of the hot springs, you can only stay for a set amount of time. Here, you even have the option to bathe under the stars as the thermal baths stay open until 11:00 pm!
Parque Terra Nostra, Furnas, Sao Miguel Island, David Stanley, FlickrPoça da Dona Beija, Photo by Becky Gillespie
3. Termas de Unhais da Serra
In the middle of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, the Mountain Spa Aquadome, integrated into the H2otel Congress & Medical Spa in Unhais da Serra, offers a unique health and wellness destination. Known as the first Portuguese mountain spa and one of Europe’s largest, it provides numerous therapeutic and beauty treatments focused on physical and spiritual rehabilitation. Visitors can enhance both body and mind and enjoy a comprehensive wellness experience looking out at a beautiful natural setting.
The facility is divided into distinct sections, each catering to specific needs: AquaTermas for respiratory diseases, AquaFisio with an impressive osteopathic and physiotherapy center, AquaCorpus combining oriental and western cosmetic techniques, and AquaLudic featuring themed pools. This variety ensures a truly incredible experience, making Termas de Unhais da Serra one of Portugal’s finest spas.
Termas de Unhais da Serra, José María Andrés, Flickr
4. Termas de Luso
In the heart of the Buçaco mountains in central Portugal, the termas in Luso are ideal for those looking to care for themselves inside and out. Part of the Grande Hotel do Luso complex, this spa combines the charm of a historic hotel with a contemporary space that includes a hot spring spa and the Malo Clinic Spa Luso, a rehabilitation medical center. The blend of old-world elegance and modern amenities makes it a unique destination at the foot of the enchanting Buçaco Forest.
The Luso hot springs offer benefits for those suffering from metabolic disorders, urinary tract issues, muscular system challenges, and chronic respiratory diseases. Visitors can indulge in a large variety of treatments for twelve months of the year. The spa is open Mondays to Fridays from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm, and Saturdays from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm – 8:00 pm. Just to give you an idea, a half-day spa pass including a 40-minute massage costs €127. Many other treatment combinations are available.
Termas Spa do Luso, Philips Indal Lighting Solutions, Flickr
5. Termas das Caldas da Rainha
Termas das Caldas da Rainha in Caldas da Rainha was founded in 1484 by Queen Dona Leonor. Legend has it that the queen, suffering from an illness, discovered the healing properties of the sulfur-rich waters and subsequently established what is considered the world’s oldest thermal hospital. Over the centuries, the site has evolved, with King D. João V and administrator Rodrigo Berquó contributing to its expansion and modernization, transforming it into a significant health and wellness destination.
Spa treatments at Termas das Caldas da Rainha were actually suspended between 2009 and 2022 after the “legionela” bacterium was detected in the pipes where the thermal water circulated. After 13 years and 500,000 euros of renovation work, the south wing of the Thermal Hospital reopened for treatments on September 26, 2022 from Mondays to Fridays from 9:00 am – 7:00 pm, and Saturdays from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm.
Hospital Termal das Caldas da Rainha, Vitor Oliveira, Wikimedia Commons
6. Termas do Gêres
The Termas do Gêres, located in the stunning Peneda-Gêres Natural Park in Northern Portugal, offers an unforgettable retreat in the heart of nature. Surrounded by lakes and mountains, these hot springs were first discovered by the Romans and the first bathing facilities were constructed in the beginning of the 18th century.
The best place to stay is the Águas do Gerês – Hotel, Termas & Spa located right across from the Termas do Gerês. Please note that access to the spa facility is not included with your hotel stay. It is also important to check with the reception about the details of the specific treatment that you wish to purchase including length of the massage, whether access to the jacuzzi is included, etc. Bathing in the mineral water here is said to aid cellular regeneration and relieve conditions such as obesity, gout, and diabetes. Get away from it all and treat yourself to a few days of rest and wellness.
Terras de Bouro, Parque das Termas do Gerês, Vítor Ribeiro, Flickr
Final Thoughts
The thermal spas of Portugal offer a diverse and rejuvenating experience for wellness seekers. From the mineral-rich waters of Termas das Caldas de Monchique in the Algarve to the volcanic hot springs of Parque Terra Nostra in São Miguel, Azores, each spa provides unique therapeutic benefits in stunning natural settings.
If you’ve decided to take the Portuguese Way (Camino Portugues) to reach Santiago de Compostela, the most visited sacred Christian site in Europe, we know that there is a lot of planning involved. Maybe you’re also here to understand if you’re ready to embark on this spiritual journey.
Either way, we’re here to help! We’ve gathered everything you need to know about the Camino Portugues, so let’s get started!
Santiago Ways – The Camino Portugues
Photo by Alexander Schimmeck (Unsplash)
If you’re reading this article, you probably already know a lot about the Santiago Ways – a network of pilgrimages that start in different points across Europe and end at the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia.
The remains of James the Great, one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus and the patron saint of Spain, are buried at the cathedral. As such, pilgrims take these routes to reach the remains of Santiago as a way to cleanse themselves and grow spiritually. In fact, these routes have been the most important Christian pilgrimages ever since the Middle Ages.
There are several Santiago Ways, the Camino Portugues being the second most popular. It has two starting points: the cathedral in Lisbon or the cathedral in Porto.
Statistics show that the Camino Portugues has registered almost 53,000 pilgrims over 10 months, which represents nearly 20% of the total number of pilgrims that reached Santiago de Compostela within that period, confirming that this route is preferred by many.
Furthermore, many pilgrims are particularly interested in the Camino Portugues – Coastal Route, which, over that same period, served as a pathway to Galicia for almost 6,500 pilgrims, accounting for 4.41%. This makes the coastal Portuguese Camino the 7th most popular Santiago Way!
Camino Portugues – General Details
Camino Portugues, Routes from Porto Blue Line – the Litoral Way Green Line – the Coastal Route Red Line – the Central Route Purple Line – the Spiritual Variant
Here are some general details about the Camino Portugues:
Lisbon to Santiago de Compostela: 379 miles (610 km)
End point: Obradoiro Square in Santiago de Compostela
Porto to Santiago de Compostela (Camino Portugues Central Route): 162 miles (260 km)
Porto to Santiago de Compostela (Camino Portugues Coastal Route): 174 miles (280 km)
Starting point: Se Cathedral in Porto
Duration: 12 – 15 days
End point: Obradoiro Square in Santiago de Compostela
Tui to Santiago de Compostela: 73 miles (118 km)
Starting point: the Cathedral of Santa Maria de Tui
Duration: 5 – 7 days
End point: Obradoiro Square in Santiago de Compostela
Camino Portugues – from Lisbon to Porto
The Camino Portugues from Lisbon to Porto is, obviously, the longest. Nonetheless, it goes without saying that it takes you through the most uplifting spiritual and cultural path. And we’re here to guide you through it.
If you’re thinking of taking the long Camino Portugues, there’s an important thing you should know – the road from Lisbon to Porto is slightly off the beaten track. In other words, you won’t pass any very touristy places. However, this is actually what makes this route incredibly authentic. You’ll see the raw Portugal.
One thing that makes this route slightly difficult is the lack of infrastructure for pilgrims, which is understandable, considering that few pilgrims actually take this route. This means that your pilgrimage may be more expensive because the albergues (hotels for pilgrims) are often 31 miles (50 km) apart, so you may have to book a room in a hotel.
Other than that, the Camino Portugues from Lisbon is a marvel to behold! It’s not a leisurely walk, but it’s also not a crazy high-altitude hike far off the beaten path. Obviously, you’ll get tired, considering that you’ll also have your backpack, but it’s always better to walk on straight roads rather than hills.
Lisbon to Porto – Camino Portugues Route
Now, you’re probably wondering if beginning your Portuguese Way to Santiago de Compostela from Lisbon is worth it. We’ll share the route to help you decide. Keep reading to learn more about the stops along the Portuguese Camino.
The Portuguese Camino – From Lisbon to Golegã
Camino Portugues from Lisbon
In Lisbon, you’ll head to the Parque das Nações and then to the countryside, although some people prefer to take the train to the next stop, which is…
Vila Franca de Xira, a beautiful town known for its bullfighting festival.
There is no private or municipal albergue, so you’ll have to book a hotel room.
Vila Franca de Xira -> Azambuja = 12 miles (19 km)
You’ll still follow the Tejo River while walking to Azambuja, a pretty town known for its bull run.
There’s a municipal albergue in Azambuja where you can stay the night; it’s called Albergue Abrigo Do Peregrino.
Azambuja -> Santarém = 17 miles (27 km)
This route is filled with gems, vineyards, crop fields, orchards, etc.; Santarem is the highest point of the route (110 meters high); it’s an incredibly beautiful Moorish city with narrow streets that will feel like a time-machine!
It’s worth noting that approximately 6.2 miles (10 km) of this Camino Portugues is through open fields, so make sure you have enough water and can protect yourself from the sun.
There’s a municipal albergue in Santarem; it’s called Albergue N1 Hostel, and you can book the room online.
Santarem -> Golegã = 19 miles (32 km)
As you head northwest to Golegã, you’ll see authentic villages and dozens of horses and bulls!
You can stay at an albergue in Golegã.
If this route is too long, you can split it in half and stop somewhere in between, depending on the route you’ll take. For example, you can stop in São Vicente do Paul or Azinhaga, where you can stay at Albergue de Peregrinos de Azinhaga.
The Portuguese Camino – from Golegã to Coimbra
Camino Portugues, from Golega to Coimbra
Golega -> Tomar = 17.4 miles (28 km)
On your way to Tomar, make sure to stop by the famous manor house Quinta da Cardiga. Then, yet again, you’ll pass through several small villages until you reach Tomar.
There are two municipal albergues in Tomar.
Tomar -> Alvaiázere = 18 miles (29 km)
The way from Tomar to Alvaiázere is as peaceful as it can get! It’s filled with woodlands, valleys, and ancient Roman roads. A true delight!
Alvaiázere does have an albergue, so make sure to check if there are any available rooms.
Alvaiazere -> Ansião = 8.6 miles (14 km)
As you’ve noticed, this part of Camino Portugues is shorter than others, mainly because it’s governed by hills.
There are no albergues in Ansião, so you’ll have to book a room.
Ansião -> Zambujal = 12.4 miles (20 km)
You can stay at a private albergue in Zambujal called Albergue Casa Das Raposas, which can accommodate 18 people.
Zambujal -> Coimbra = 14 miles (23 km)
And here we are, headed to Coimbra, one of Portugal’s most charming cities! On your way there, you’ll walk through some pretty villages, where you’ll see well-preserved old houses and a 16th-century bridge.
Coimbra has both municipal and private albergues.
The Portuguese Camino – From Coimbra to Porto
Camino Portugues, from Coimbra to Porto
Coimbra -> Mealhada = 14 miles (23 km)
The walk to Mealhada is quite pleasant and easy, except for the hill to Santa Luzia.
Mealhada has a private albergue called Hilario, which costs between 10 and 15 EUR.
Mealhada -> Agueda = 14 miles (23 km)
From Mealhada, the Camino Portugues takes you to Agueda through a beautiful trail filled with vineyards, forests, and small cities.
Agueda has a private albergue called Albergue Santo Antonio.
Agueda -> Albergaria A Nova = 13.6 miles (22 km)
On your way to Albergaria A Nova, you’ll walk on a road known as Via Romana XVI, an ancient Roman road with plenty of eucalyptus and pine trees.
This road is a bit difficult because it has two uphill walks. Apart from this, it’s a delight!
Albergaria A Nova has a private albergue, which can accommodate 12 people.
Albergaria A Nova -> São João da Madeira = 13 miles (21 km)
Today’s trip is a bit longer, but it’s totally worth it nonetheless! It will take you through both woodlands and cities. More precisely, you can stop in Oliveira de Azeméis, where you can check out the Matriz de São Miguel church, and the beautiful town of Arrifana. From there, you’ll walk along an ancient Roman road that will take you to São João da Madeira.
São João da Madeira has both municipal and private albergues.
São João da Madeira -> Grijó = 12.4 miles (20 km)
You’ll soon be in Porto, so this short 21-km-long walk should leave you excited, especially since there are a lot of cafes and shops on the road! You can stop for a coffee or lunch, then continue your walk to the charming city of Porto.
Grijó has a municipal albergue called Albergue São Salvador de Grijó.
Grijó -> Porto = 11 miles (18 km)
And here we are, arriving in Porto! If you want to explore the city, it’s best to start early from Grijó. Or, if you want to take a longer break, why not book a hotel room for two or three nights?! There’s undoubtedly plenty to see in the city before embarking on the second part of your Camino Portugues.
Tips for Your Camino Portuguese to Porto
Photo by Fabian Kühne (Unsplash)
We’ve prepared some tips for your Camino Portugues from Lisbon to Porto:
Make sure to have enough cash, as you may not find too many ATMs, especially in small towns or villages.
If possible, book your stay at the albergues beforehand, especially if you’re walking the Camino Portugues during the peak season.
Whenever you stumble upon a cafe, stop to refill your bottle because there may be no cafes over the next few miles.
If you have any health conditions you may need medication for, we recommend buying them in advance. Some cities have pharmacies, others don’t. In addition, pack some essentials just in case you need them – some painkillers, for example.
If you don’t mind prolonging your trip, you can merge your Camino Portugues with Camino de Fatima. Instead of heading to Tomar from Santarem, you’ll walk to Fatima and then to Ansiao. This way, you’ll visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima, one of Europe’s most important Christian sites.
It’s best to have travel insurance for this walking trip.
May and June are the best months to begin your journey. It still rains occasionally in April, while July and August are too hot. You can also walk the Portuguese Way from Lisbon to Porto in September.
You’ll probably need approximately 25 – 30 EUR per person daily for food and accommodation.
Don’t pack too many things. There aren’t too many luggage transportation services from Lisbon to Porto.
The Camino Portugues – Coastal Route, from Porto to Santiago de Compostela
Now that we’ve arrived in Porto, it’s time to decide how we’ll reach Santiago de Compostela – through the Camino Portugues Coastal Route or the Camino Portugues Central Route.
As already mentioned, most pilgrims choose Porto as the starting point of their pilgrimage because the camino is more populated, there are more albergues on the route, and there are more luggage transportation services. And, of course, the obvious reason – the pilgrimage duration is cut in half because it only takes you approximately 15 days to reach Santiago de Compostela from Porto, regardless of what route you pick.
To help you pick the best route for you, we’ve included details about both. Let’s start with the coastal route, which seems to have gained much popularity in recent years.
The Portuguese Camino – the Coastal Route Stops
It will take you approximately 12 – 15 days to get from Porto to Santiago de Compostela through the coastal route of the Camino Portugues.
Before we begin our journey, we must mention that the coastal route doesn’t take you directly to the coast, meaning you won’t always walk through coastal cities.
If you want to walk closer to the shore, you’ll have to take the Litoral Way when leaving Porto, but it implies a longer detour. However, the Litoral Way and the Coastal Route merge at Vila do Conde (see below both routes for comparison).
Porto -> Vila Chã = 13 miles (21 km)
If you want to take the Litoral Way, you’ll go through Matosinhos, Lavra, and Labruge to reach Vila Chã. It’s a pleasant trip with plenty of cafes. However, it’s worth noting that the first 10 km of this route isn’t marked.
If you want to take the Coastal Route, you’ll go through Padrão de Légua, Vila Nova de Telha, and Labruge to reach Vila Chã.
Vila Chã has a municipal albergue called Municipal Albergue de S. Mamede.
Camino Portugues – the Litoral WayCamino Portugues – Coastal Route
Vila Chã -> Póvoa de Varzim = 9.3 miles (15 km)
On your way to Póvoa de Varzim, you’ll have a nice walk parallel to the coast with plenty of cafes to stop by. At one point, you’ll switch to a rather inland route, passing through Vila do Conde.
Póvoa de Varzim -> Esposende = 12 miles (19 km)
From Póvoa de Varzim, head toward Praia Estela, Praia Apúlia, and Praia Fão to reach Esposende.
Esposende -> Viana do Castelo = 13.7 miles (22 km)
The walk from Esposende to Viana do Castelo is a bit tiring because of the hills, but the scenery is undoubtedly worth it, as well as the historical center of our destination!
Once in Viana do Castelo, you can stay at the Albergue de Santa Luzia.
Viana do Castelo -> Vila Praia de Âncora = 15 miles (24 km)
Some pilgrims prefer walking past Vila Praia de Âncora, but we recommend stopping here for the night if you feel tired or aren’t experienced with such long walks.
The road from Viana do Castelo to Vila Praia de Âncora is quite pleasant, taking you through various places along the Atlantic coast while heading North.
Vila Praia de Âncora -> A Guarda = 8.6 miles (14 km)
And here we are, crossing the border to Spain! Today’s trip is quite beautiful with nice views and historical and authentic villages.
On your way to A Guarda, you’ll have to cross the Minho River by boat.
Once you’re in Spain you can, yet again, pick one of the two routes – the Litoral Way or the official Coastal Route. The Litoral Way is a bit longer but definitely worth it thanks to the stunning views and the pleasant breeze. The Coastal route takes you from A Guarda North through an inland route.
The Portuguese Camino through Spain
Portuguese Way – the Coastal Route
Let’s continue our Camino Portugues through Spain:
A Guarda -> Viladesuso = 11 miles (18 km)
Yet another walk along the Atlantic coast with plenty of nature to enjoy and sunshine to bathe in.
You can also take the inland route, which takes you through several villages and forests. However, it’s worth noting that this part doesn’t have too many shops or cafes, especially if you take the Litoral Way.
Viladesuso -> Baiona = 8.6 miles (14 km)
From Viladesuso, you can again pick a route – either along the shore or the official Coastal Route, which is a bit farther away from the Atlantic coast. There’s no big difference between them in terms of distance.
Once you reach Baiona, you can stay at one of the several albergues in the town.
Baiona -> Vigo = 13.7 miles (22 km)
Once again, you can pick the Litoral Way or the Coastal Route or combine the two. It’s worth noting that the Coastal Route takes you through industrial areas, and it’s slightly longer, so you may have to choose the Litoral Way if you prefer quiet walks and peaceful views.
In Vigo, you can stay at the Public Albergue de Vigo.
Vigo -> Redondela = 8.6 miles (14 km)
This short walking trip is filled with breathtaking views. However, it has a disadvantage – there are few restaurants and shops along the way. But it’s not a long or tiring walk, so we’re sure you’ll reach your destination safely!
In Redondela, you can stay at the Public Albergue de Redondela.
Portuguese Camino – Redondela to Santiago the Compostela
Redondela -> Pontevedra = 12 miles (19 km)
The route from Redondela to Pontevedra will mainly take you through forests, but there are still plenty of coffee shops along the way.
In Pontevedra, you can stay at the Public Albergue Virgen Peregrina or the Albergue Nacama Hostel Pontevedra.
Pontevedra -> Caldas de Reis = 14 miles (23 km)
Make sure to have breakfast before you begin today’s trip, or pack some snacks. The only cafes and restaurants are 6.2 miles (10 km) from Pontevedra.
Once in Caldas de Reis, you can stop at Albergue A Queimada or Albergue Agarimo.
Caldas de Reis -> Padrón = 10.5 miles (17 km)
On your way to Padrón, you’ll pass through peaceful forests with several cafes. When you reach Padrón, you can go for a walk along the Padrón promenade – it’s a true delight!
In Padrón, you can stay at Albergue Corredoiras, Hostel & Rooms O Albergue da Meiga, or at the public albergue.
Padron – Santiago de Compostela = 14 miles (23 km) (or split the distance between two days)
And here we are – on the last part of our Camino Portugues! The distance is indeed a bit longer today, and the walk is slightly difficult because the second half has many ascents and descents. However, if you think it’s too much for you, you can split this trip into two days – there’s no rush anyway!
In Santiago de Compostela, you can stay at Albergue Seminario Menor or Santiago KM-0.
Tips for Your Camino Portugues Coastal Route
Photo by Karina Skrypnik (Unsplash)
Here are some tips that can help you along the Camino Portugues Coastal Route:
You can combine the Litoral Way and the official Coastal Route in a way that suits you best.
Prepare approximately 25-40 EUR per person daily, depending on your accommodation and food choices.
You can use apps like Buen Camino or Wise Pilgrim on your trip.
You can use backpack delivery services – they are way more developed on the route from Porto to Santiago de Compostela than from Lisbon to Porto – to deliver your backpack to your next accommodation.
The stops we’ve shared are just recommendations. You can stay in different cities and split the stops depending on your hiking/walking experience.
Camino Portugues – The Central Route
Now that we’ve covered all the stops on the Coastal Route, let’s move to the Central Route. Although it was once preferred by most pilgrims, it is now slightly overshadowed by the Coastal Route.
Nonetheless, the Central Route of the Portuguese Camino is still the best choice for those interested in historical or cultural landmarks. In addition, it’s best to take the Central Route if you’re walking the Camino Portugues in, let’s say, April or October. You certainly don’t want to get trapped on a beach during a rainstorm.
The Central Route differs from the Coastal Route up until reaching Redondela. From Redondela to Santiago de Compostela, it’s the same route. Therefore, we’ll only outline the first half of the journey.
The Central Route – Porto to Redondela
Camino Portugues – Central Route
Porto -> Vilarinho das Cambas = 18 miles (29 km)
It’s quite a long walk but easy nonetheless. It takes you through various residential areas, forests, and small towns.
Vilarinho has a private albergue where you can stay.
If today’s trip is too long, you can stop in Trofa and continue your journey the next day.
Vilarinho -> Barcelos = 13.7 miles (22 km)
The first half of today’s walk is mostly through towns. The second half, however, changes the view completely as it takes you through a large forest. Once you reach Barcelos, you can check its historical center – a pleasant reward for such a long trip!
There’s an albergue in Barcelos, so you can check if they have any available rooms.
Barcelos -> Aborim = 7.5 miles (12 km)
On your way to Aborim, you’ll walk through forests and fields. There are also several restaurants and bakeries along the way.
Check out the Casa de Santiago Albergue in Aborim.
If the trip is too short, you can continue to Ponte de Lima – it will amount to 34 km.
Alternatively, you can walk from Barcelos to Vitorino dos Piães (13.6 mi or 22 km) and from there, to Ponte de Lima (7.5 mi or 12 km).
Aborim -> Ponte de Lima = 13.6 miles (22 km)
Ponte de Lima is a charming city – one of the most popular on the Portuguese Way.
There are plenty of hotels in Ponte de Lima where you can stay.
Ponte de Lima -> Rubiães = 11 miles (18 km)
This part can be quite tiring because there aren’t too many cafes and shops on the way to Rubiães, so you’ll have to pack water and snacks beforehand.
Rubiães has a municipal albergue, so you’re covered if you manage to find a room.
Portuguese Camino, the Central Route
Rubiães -> Tui = 12 miles (19 km)
It’s time to cross the border to Spain – in other words, we’re getting nearer and nearer to our destination!
Make sure to stop by the Valença Fortress!
Once in Tui, you can check in at a public albergue if it has any available rooms.
Tui -> Porriño = 9.3 miles (15 km)
The road from Tui to Porriño can be rather crowded – the thing is that many pilgrims walk only from Tui to Santiago de Compostela, as it’s the minimum required distance to get the Compostela certificate.
There are several private albergues in Porriño.
Porriño -> Redondela = 10 miles (16 km)
From Porriño, you’ll head to Veigadaña and the beautiful town of Mos. From there, you’ll walk through a forest to reach Redondela.
In Redondela, you can stay at the Public Albergue de Redondela.
From Redondela, head to the stops we’ve mentioned above (see the Coastal Route heading: Pontevedra, Caldas de Reis, Padron, and Santiago de Compostela).
The Spiritual Way – Camino Portugues
There’s another route you can take once you’re in Pontevedra – the Spiritual Variant. You’ll have to walk 50 miles (74 km) on foot and cross 17.4 miles (28 km) by boat. It is believed that the remains of Santiago reached the Iberian Peninsula through this route, which is why some pilgrims choose it.
It’s worth noting that the Spiritual Variant is a bit longer than the Central Route but totally worth it thanks to the spiritual enrichment and the picturesque setting!
In short, here’s how the Spiritual Variant differs from the Central Route:
Pontevedra -> A Armenteira = 13 miles (21 km)
Armenteira -> Vilanova de Arousa = 11 miles (18 km)
Vilanova de Arousa -> Padron = 18.7 miles (30 km), of which most are on the pilgrims’ boat
From Padron, you’ll continue your journey to Santiago de Compostela like other pilgrims.
Camino Portugues – the Spiritual Variant
About the Credencial and the Stamps
Let’s not forget about the Credencial or the so-called Pilgrim’s Passport. Without it, you won’t be able to stay at the albergues or pilgrim’s hostels. Without it, you won’t receive the Compostela certificate either, so take great care of it!
In order to get the Compostela certificate, you have to walk at least 100 km. You’ll have to collect at least two stamps daily for your Credencial. You can stop at churches or town halls for the stamps. Once you reach your destination, you’ll have to show your Credencial to apply for the Camino Compostela certificate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to walk the Portuguese Camino?
The best time of the year to walk the Portuguese Camino is May, June, and September. The weather is best during those months. By contrast, April and October are quite rainy, July and August are extremely hot. The months between November and April are cold, rainy, and windy, and many albergues are closed.
How long does it take to walk the Portuguese Way?
It takes approximately 25 – 30 days to walk the Portuguese Way from Lisbon and 12 – 15 days to walk the Portuguese Way from Porto. It takes 5 – 7 days to walk the Portuguese Way from Tui.
Is the Portuguese Camino Difficult?
Without a doubt, the Portuguese Camino isn’t for beginners. It requires preparation and training because, ultimately, you’ll walk approximately 25 km a day for 15 – 30 days depending on the chosen route. If you’re an experienced hiker, this route isn’t challenging at all – besides the fact that it’s hilly here and there, the route is quite easy. You may also want to consider that Portugal has many stone-paved roads, so you’ll need suitable shoes.
Where does the Portuguese Way start?
You can start the Portuguese Way either in Lisbon or Porto. Some pilgrims prefer to start their journey to Santiago de Compostela in Tui.
Which Camino is best in Portugal?
You can choose one of the several routes of the Portuguese Camino. First, you can start in Lisbon, head to Porto, and then to Santiago de Compostela. Secondly, you can begin your Portuguese Camino de Santiago in Porto and choose one of the three routes: the Litoral Way, the Coastal Route, or the Central Route. You can also start your journey in Tui and walk 100 km to Santiago de Compostela. The most popular routes in Portugal are the Coastal and the Central Routes. However, there is no best route – just pick the one that suits your preferences and hiking experience.
What is the difference between the coastal and central Portuguese Camino?
The coastal Portuguese Camino is closer to the shore, while the central Portuguese Camino takes you through inland Portugal. Ultimately, your choice should depend on your preferences and hiking experience. It’s also worth noting that although the Coastal Way is usually less crowded than the Central Route, it has become incredibly popular in recent years, so you may still “share your journey” with many other pilgrims. In addition, don’t forget about the weather – if you walk the Portuguese Camino in April or October, you should prepare for strong winds and rainstorms.
What is the most scenic part of the Portuguese Camino?
The Litoral Way (Porto – Redondela) is the most scenic part of the Portuguese Camino.
This week was a good week for the Portuguese Olympic Team. Three more medals (two silver and one gold) were added to Patrícia Sampaio’s bronze in judo. The first was won by the cyclist Iúri Leitão in the omnium (cycling category), the second by David Pichardo in the triple jump, and the third by Iúri Leitão and Rui Oliveira in Madison (another cycling category).
Before the beginning of the Paris Olympics, Iúri Leitão, the 26 year-old Portuguese cyclist from Viana do Castelo, in the north of Portugal, said that he would be happy to win an Olympic Diploma, which is awarded to the top 8 cyclists. This was supposed to mean that he would be happy with 8th place. However, on Thursday, Leitão’s first race turned much better than he expected. The omnium champion of the world finished second because he chose not to finish first. When Benjamin Thomas fell, Iúri, like a true champion, chose not to attack and allowed the French to keep his gold medal.
On Friday, Pedro Pichardo, the Olympic champion in Tokyo three years ago, stayed two centimeters away from the gold. The Portuguese athlete was able to reach a mark of 17.84 meters but still lost to the Spanish Jórdan Diaz, who had already beat him at the European Championship in Rome.
On Saturday, Iúri Leitão finally took home the gold and became an icon of Portuguese cycling and Olympic history. Leitão along with Rui Ribeiro, a 27 year-old cyclist from Vila Nova de Gaia, made history and became the first two Portuguese athletes to win an Olympic gold outside of athletics. Cycling as a team, the two athletes won the final of Madison, another category of cycling, in epic fashion. Their perfectly executed plan was a true testament to bravery, cooperation, perseverance, and unity. As one, the two athletes won the 6th Olympic gold for Portugal.
With these medals, Pichardo and Iúri become the sixth and seventh athletes in the history of Portugal to reach the Olympic podium twice, bringing Portugal to a grand total of 32 Olympic medals in 31 editions of the Olympic Games. Portugal’s medals in four events in Paris tie with their results in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics – the most they have received in a single Olympic Games. If we count Iúri Leitão and Rui Oliveira’s medals individually, Portugal will bring home five medals from Paris.
The Portuguese wine company, Sogrape, will hold the Sogrape Impact Hack competition on September 19 which challenges students to present ideas and solutions that can reinvent the wine industry.
Sogrape Wines is a family-owned company focused on the production of quality wines, innovation, and the development of Portuguese brands. Even though it is family-owned, it is the biggest Portuguese wine company and has a strong international presence.
Taking place at Caves Ferreirinha in Vila Nova de Gaia, the Sogrape Impact Hack competition is a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation. Participants will have 12 hours to transform ideas into concrete solutions, leveraging innovative approaches in two key areas – direct to consumer and wine tourism.
The goal is for students to create innovative solutions that enable them to reinvent the wine industry by contributing to the construction of a more impactful and sustainable sector that is focused on attracting consumers, creating products, and implementing sustainable practices.
Participants can apply until September 11, and Sogrape will award the best three projects with 1,500, 1,000, and 500 euros, respectively. Winners will also have the opportunity to build and implement their projects within the company’s group, which holds several well-known wine brands, such as Mateus Rosé, Barca Velha, Esteva, Sandekan, and Porto Ferreira.
Sogrape was founded in 1942 by Fernando Van Zeller Guedes and is now managed by Fernando Cunha Guedes, a member of the third generation of the founding family. It has a presence in more than 120 markets globally and owns more than 1,600 acres of vineyard distributed between Portugal, Spain, Chile, Argentina, and New Zealand. Last year’s edition of the Impact Hack competition had more than 100 participants.
A financial aid package of 2.5 million euros will be created and used to train immigrants to work in the tourism sector.
On July 4, as part of the Accelerate the Economy program, the Portuguese Government announced that 2.5 million euros from the budget of the government entity, Tourism of Portugal, will be used as an aid package to create and deploy a program to integrate immigrants and refugees.
In its first phase, this new program is estimated to be able to provide help to 1000 people, so that they can get the necessary training to work in the tourism sector.
Even though there are still no official dates, the communication states that the training will include two phases. The first phase will consist of educational training (both theoretical and practical) provided by the network of hospitality and tourism schools belonging to Tourism of Portugal, which will also finance the first phase. The second phase, on the other hand, will consist of a professional internship at one of the hospitality and/or tourism companies that choose to adhere to the program and will be paid for by the company in question.
The program will “welcome professionals and non-professionals, for a training/integration project that aims to contribute to the improvement of the conditions of integration of refugees and migrants in Portugal.” Due to the current state of the hospitality and tourism sector and the shortage of well-trained professionals, the program will benefit both migrants and the country’s economy.
The objectives of the program include the development of “strategic partnerships for the qualification and integration of young people” in the countries belonging to the CPLP (Community of Countries of Portuguese Language), which is a multilateral organization formed by the nine countries that have Portuguese as an official language (Angola, Brazil, Cabo Verde, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Mozambique, Portugal, São Tomé e Príncipe, and Timor Leste).
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