THE ALGARVE is the region in Portugal with the highest number of beaches awarded with a Bandeira Azul (blue flag) this year. Boasting a grand total of 48, five further beaches have been awarded with a blue flag since 2004.
Those added to the list are Praia da Cordoama (Vila do Bispo), Olhos de Água (Albufeira), Duna (Loulé), Manta Rota (Vila Real de Santo António) and Alagoa-Altura (Castro Marim). With five marinas distinguished this year as well (one more than last year), the Algarve also leads the way here, having the most to bear the flag of quality.
The list of beaches that will proudly display a Bandeira Azul this year has been released by the Associação Portuguesa Bandeira Azul and includes 191 of Portugal’s beaches, 29 more than last year.
The flag is a symbol of quality and is awarded annually to those beaches and marinas that comply with a series of strict criteria under the following topics: environmental quality (includes water and cleanliness), safety, bathers’ comfort, environmental awareness (includes litter management) and information.
The increase in the number of Algarve beaches being distinguished with a blue flag serves to further reflect the region’s vocation for tourism. Two hundred kilometres of coastline, 3,000 hours of sunshine every year and pleasant temperatures, all combine to make the Algarve region a ‘sun and sea’ holiday destination of excellence.
For more information about Portugal’s blue flag beaches, visit Associação Bandeira Azul da Europa’s website www.abae.pt
