Inauguration of Marmelete Campervan Service Area
A new campervan service area, Asa de Marmelete, has been inaugurated in Marmelete, Monchique, marking the eighth facility in the Algarve's Serrana Campervan Route. This project is funded by European funds managed through the CRESC ALGARVE 2020 Operational Programme, under the PADRE – Action Plan for Endogenous Resource Development.
Managed by the Marmelete Parish Council with support from the Monchique Municipality, the investment totals €361,300 in eligible costs, with €252,910 in approved funding. This initiative strengthens the network of campervan support facilities in the Algarve's interior, promoting sustainable tourist mobility, enhancing the appeal of low-density areas, and encouraging visits linked to natural and cultural heritage.
With this addition, the route now connects eight interior Algarve locations: Alcoutim, São Brás de Alportel, Ameixial, Salir, São Bartolomeu de Messines, São Marcos da Serra, Alferce, and Marmelete. It offers an integrated network of campervan service areas for both residents and visitors.
The Serrana Campervan Route aims to create and coordinate various service and reception areas to meet the growing interest from national and international tourists in campervan travel. In Marmelete, visitors now have access to a modern, well-equipped facility designed to support campervan stays and promote exploration of the unique resources of the Monchique Mountains, complemented by funding from Turismo de Portugal.
This project goes beyond infrastructure development; it's an invitation to discover the authentic offerings of the Algarve's interior. Through the online platform of the Serrana Campervan Route, developed by Associação In Loco with support from AMAL, CCDR Algarve, and Turismo do Algarve, travelers can plan itineraries, discover local products, crafts, gastronomy, accommodation, heritage, commerce, and events in each area.
The opening of Asa de Marmelete represents another step in expanding the route's territorial coverage, broadening service offerings, and contributing to a more diverse, inclusive, and year-round attractive Algarve.
The inauguration ceremony included the presence of the Algarve Campervan Association and symbolized the culmination of a demanding journey, overcome through collaborative efforts among local authorities, associations, and communities. The President of Monchique Municipality emphasized the project's importance and thanked all participants, highlighting the crucial role of CCDR Algarve in supporting and realizing the initiative.
José Apolinário, President of CCDR Algarve and the Managing Authority of PR Algarve 2030, stated that the Serrana Campervan Route is "an example of how European funds can enhance the resilience of interior territories, promoting their attractiveness and attracting conscious visitors interested in more sustainable tourism." He also advocated for the integrated and joint promotion of natural and cultural values along National Road 124 (from Porto de Lagos to Alcoutim) and National Road 267 (from Aljezur to Monchique and São Marcos da Serra).
Under the ALGARVE 2030 Regional Programme, the new PADRE II call for proposals is now open, aimed at supporting initiatives that value the region's endogenous resources and strengthen the sustainable development of low-density areas, offering an opportunity to consolidate and expand the Algarve's Serrana Campervan Route.
More information is available at: Aviso PADRE II – Algarve 2030
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