Showcasing the charm and attractions of central Portugal in full glory
Boosting Sustainable Tourism in Central Portugal with €5.2 Million EU Funding
Central Portugal is set to benefit from a series of action plans aimed at promoting sustainable development, enhancing the region's endogenous resources, and boosting tourism potential. The three main action plans—Nautical Strategy for Central Portugal, Provere Explore: iNature & Centre Geoparks 2030, and Valorisation of Thermal Territories—have been approved and will receive €5.2 million in funding from Centro 2030, a regional component of the broader Portugal 2030 funding program.
The Nautical Strategy for Central Portugal, supported with €1.5 million, focuses on promoting sustainable tourism by creating certified, competitive nautical destinations at both national and international levels. This includes encouraging entrepreneurship and private investment in water sports and promoting natural sports experiences, boosting water sports centres and contact with nature.
Provere Explore: iNature & Centre Geoparks 2030 is part of the Provere programme aimed at economic development through sustainable resource use. It promotes nature tourism and the geoparks network, strengthening regional cooperation and innovation to valorize natural and cultural heritage. The plan integrates the iNature brand and focuses on the creation of innovative tourist packages, including trails, interpretive centres, local training, scientific experiences, and new digital promotion platforms.
The Valorisation of Thermal Territories, also supported within the same funding framework, aims to enhance the thermal waters sector to promote health and wellness tourism, improving regional attractiveness and sustainable economic growth in thermal territories.
Isabel Damasceno, president of CCDR Centro, emphasized that these nine action plans are in place. The plans aim to take advantage of the region's potential, boosting economic activity, and enhancing the attractiveness of the territories. They also mobilize partnerships between public institutions, associations, companies, and entities in the scientific and technological system, promoting cooperation and innovation in their respective strategic areas.
The nine action plans, in total, receive €19.5 million in European funding. The objectives for the Valorisation of Thermal Territories include enhancing tourist appeal, creating tourism products associated with well-being and health, increasing the average length of stay of visitors, creating thermal routes, and encouraging research in the area.
The Provere, Water Sports in Central Portugal, Explore: iNature & Centre Geoparks 2030, and Valorisation of Thermal Territories were signed by the Centro 2030 Management Authority and leading entities. The approval of the nine action plans for the Economic Enhancement of Endogenous Resources in the Central Region is complete.
With these action plans, Central Portugal is poised to become a national and international reference in thermalism, water-related sports, and nature tourism, contributing to sustainable tourism and regional socio-economic development.
- Central Portugal's lifestyle, culture, and natural resources will be showcased through a series of sustained tourism initiatives, aiming to boost the region's attractiveness and economic growth.
- The fashion-and-beauty and shopping sectors in Central Portugal might witness an influx of visitors seeking unique experiences, as the region positions itself as a national and international hub for sustainable tourism.
- Food-and-drink establishments in Central Portugal, offering local cuisine and wine, will have an opportunity to cater to new tourists, including those seeking wellness and health-related vacations.
- Home-and-garden enthusiasts may find inspiration from Central Portugal's landscapes and architectural heritage, which are being promoted through sustainable tourism action plans.
- Sports fans looking for natural outdoor experiences can anticipate venturing into Central Portugal, with a focus on nautical sports and geoparks as part of the region's increased branding as a sustainable tourism destination.
- As Central Portugal expands its tourism offerings, from thermalism and water sports to nature tourism and geoparks, the gaming enthusiasts might even find a casino or two in their travel itineraries, thanks to the region's commitment to sustainable development.
