Flag returns

An official ceremony was held recently to award the European Community Blue Flag for environmental excellence to Vale do Lobo beach. Following the shock decision in 2003 not to award the Flag after 15 consecutive years, chairman of the Vale do Lobo Group of Companies, Sander van Gelder, is delighted the flag is now back in its rightful place. Mr van Gelder commented: “Vale do Lobo has always been at the forefront of responsible beach management and we are proud of the measures we take to ensure the beach is in prime condition for the 700,000 visitors who enjoy it annually. These efforts extend beyond daily cleaning carried out in peak season, clean water practices and the provision of excellent facilities to co-financing beach refurbishment schemes with the State to save the beach. Vale do Lobo is, in fact, the only company working with the State in schemes such as this.” Mr van Gelder concluded: “Tourism is a pillar of Vale do Lobo and the Blue Flag has always been a testament to our success. While I maintain the Environmental Authorities’ decision not to award the Blue Flag to Vale do Lobo beach in 2003 was unfounded, I am glad to close the door on this matter and hope our visitors enjoy the fantastic beach this year and for many years to come.”