Blue Flag, Gold Quality, and Accessible Beach Banners Raised in Vila do Bispo
On July 3rd, the municipality of Vila do Bispo officially raised the Blue Flag, “Gold Quality Beach,” and “Accessible Beach – Beach for All!” banners at several of its coastal sites. The ceremony brought together members of the municipal executive, representatives from the Portuguese Environment Agency – ARH Algarve, the Maritime Authority, the Algarve Local Health Unit (ULS), Vila do Bispo Volunteer Firefighters, Quercus – the National Association for Nature Conservation, local parish council presidents, the president of the Algarve Tourism Region, and lifeguards.
The prestigious Blue Flag was awarded to the beaches of Burgau, Cabanas Velhas, Castelejo, Cordoama, Ingrina, Mareta, Martinhal, Salema, Tonel, and Zavial. This internationally recognized symbol of quality and excellence is granted by ABAAE – the Blue Flag Association for Environmental Education, based on strict criteria such as water quality, environmental information and education, environmental management, safety, and services.
In addition to these ten beaches, the shores of Barranco, Beliche, Boca do Rio, and Furnas also earned the “Gold Quality Beach 2025” distinction. This recognition, awarded by Quercus, highlights beaches with consistently high bathing water quality, relying exclusively on laboratory analyses conducted by the Regional Hydrographic Administrations.
Furthermore, Salema Beach was honored with the “Accessible Beach – Beach for All!” banner. Granted by the National Institute for Rehabilitation (INR), this award acknowledges beaches that meet accessibility standards and offer appropriate services for people with limited mobility. The moment was shared with young participants from the BBB Junior Summer Camp, an initiative promoted by the Budens Parish Council.
Overall, the ceremony underscored Vila do Bispo’s ongoing commitment to environmental quality, public safety, and inclusivity along its coastline.
