First and foremost, let's talk about accommodations. Fortunately, Portuguese hoteliers have been at the forefront of sustainable practices for quite some time now. You'll find remarkable properties across Portugal that have embraced eco-friendly initiatives. Some have transitioned to solar power (fun fact: Portugal is a pioneer in renewable energy production), while others have organic local farms and farm-to-table restaurants. They've also implemented waste recycling programs and utilized sustainable building materials.
Now, Portugal may not immediately come to mind as a nature lover's paradise, but we have a national park and over 25 natural parks and reserves waiting to be explored. These breathtaking areas offer fantastic opportunities for hiking, biking, canoeing, and wildlife observation. The best part? You won't have to embark on strenuous journeys from the cities to reach these parks. For instance, you can reach Arrábida Natural Park in just an hour from Lisbon or make your way to the Peneda-Gerês National Park in 2 hours and 30 minutes from Porto!
But sustainable travel in Portugal encompasses much more. It's about immersing yourself in the local culture. Think dining at those charming restaurants tucked away in quaint little towns, where the owner is also the chef and the vegetables come fresh from their or their neighbor’s garden. It's about embarking on wine-tasting adventures at local wineries, some of which follow organic and biodynamic farming methods. It's about connecting with the local community, learning how to bake delicious pastéis de nata (custard tartlets) with a local, or venturing into the high mountains to master the art of traditional cheese-making at a family-owned factory.
And, of course, it's about reaching out to us for guidance on how you can contribute to sustainable tourism. We're more than happy to point you in the right direction and ensure your journey in Portugal aligns beautifully with your eco-conscious values!