Porto Covo has just reached a historic milestone by receiving Biosphere Certification, becoming the first village in Alentejo to earn this international recognition as a sustainable tourism destination. This distinction strengthens Porto Covo’s position as a place committed to a balanced development model, where tourism grows in harmony with environmental preservation, local identity, and the active involvement of the community.
For Horto do Campo Grande (HCG), this recognition has a very special meaning. Porto Covo is “home” to the group’s hospitality projects, namely Monte da Bemposta, as well as Villa by the Sea, which also hold this certification. Tourism projects we have supported from the very beginning—from the study phase to the construction of the entire surrounding landscape—part of a portfolio we are proud of for its applied sustainability vision, across the territory and over time.
WHAT IS BIOSPHERE CERTIFICATION
Biosphere Certification is awarded by Biosphere Responsible Tourism, an international organisation that recognises destinations, organisations, and projects that demonstrate consistent sustainable practices aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
More than a label, it is a demanding process based on the ongoing assessment of environmental, social, cultural, and economic practices. The certification ensures that the commitments made are implemented in a concrete way, promoting responsible, conscious tourism with a positive impact on local communities.
PORTO COVO: A PIONEERING DESTINATION LEADING BY EXAMPLE IN SUSTAINABLE TOURISM
Porto Covo’s certification was officially awarded on January 13 and is the result of a pioneering project promoted by the Alentejo and Ribatejo Regional Tourism Board, in partnership with the Porto Covo Parish Council and the Municipality of Sines. This structured work made it possible to develop a sustainable management model that places Porto Covo at the forefront of responsible tourism, both regionally and nationally.
This distinction recognises consistent practices in resource management, protection of the territory, enhancement of cultural heritage, and the promotion of tourism that respects the landscape and those who live in it. It is also a clear sign that it is possible to preserve the authenticity of a fishing village, maintaining the balance between nature, the community, and visitors.
MONTE DA BEMPOSTA: AN HCG GROUP PROJECT WITH BIOSPHERE CERTIFICATION SINCE 2023
Porto Covo’s journey as a sustainable destination intersects directly with Monte da Bemposta, an HCG group project that was a pioneer in obtaining Biosphere Certification in 2023.
From the very first moment, the entire landscaping project for Monte da Bemposta was designed and developed by the HCG team, with an approach deeply integrated into the landscape of the Costa Vicentina. The intervention was based on respect for the territory, enhancing the enjoyment of the space, and the predominant use of native species, promoting natural regeneration and long-term sustainability.
Monte da Bemposta’s certification reflects a broad vision of sustainability, including the promotion of healthier lifestyles, the adoption of responsible and participatory management systems, and prioritising the consumption of local and sustainable products and services.
HCG watches this project grow and evolve with great affection, continuously supporting the maintenance of its green spaces, ensuring that the project’s original intention remains alive, cared for, and consistent with the principles that gave rise to it.
VILLA BY THE SEA JOINS BIOSPHERE CERTIFICATION
Alongside the renewal of Monte da Bemposta’s certification, Villa by the Sea now joins as well, becoming part of the group of spaces distinguished with Biosphere Certification. Located near Praia da Pedra Negra, this hostel stands out for its welcoming, relaxed atmosphere, offering an experience close to nature and local life, where contact with the sea, the village, and the community is part of every visitor’s experience.
Awarding this certification to Villa by the Sea reinforces a shared vision: to provide authentic, conscious experiences aligned with principles of environmental responsibility, contributing positively to the sustainable development of Porto Covo and the surrounding region.
For HCG, it is rewarding to be part of this journey, contributing knowledge, vision, and care to projects that help establish Portugal as a leading sustainable destination, today and for future generations.
© Companhia das Cores for Horto do Campo Grande
