It was in the summer of 2019 that an emblematic tourist train in Portugal ceased activity, ending a path that lasted six decades. Since then, the rails have been covered with sand and vegetation, and the carriages have stopped transporting the usual summer to the beach. Stored in a hangar, they now wait for a new opportunity to circulate again. The scenario may change soon, with concrete plans for its recovery.
Project led by French investor
Transpraia connected Costa da Caparica beach to the source of the Telha, in a nine kilometers, twenty stops. Gregory Bernard, a French citizen and current owner, met the train shortly before his closing. Producer of film and investor, moved in 2017 to Caparica in search of a more serene and close life of the sea. The passion for surfing and emotional connection to transpraia motivated him to acquire the train after his disablement.
It refers to the message from Lisbon that since 2023 have been due to the recovery works of infrastructure and carriages. Interventions include the analysis of historical archives and the repair of sections affected by time and natural conditions. The goal is to return to transpraia its functionality, respecting the original identity. According to Gregory, the initial investment was less than one million euros, but it will be necessary to complete the project.
Technical tests mark advancement in the process
Currently tests are being performed with the train in sections of the line, in order to evaluate its performance and state of conservation. These essays are part of a preliminary phase that precedes the possible reopening of the service. “We are taking testing with the train in some parts of the lines to understand how it works,” says the owner to the same publication. The forecast points to a demonstrative operation in 2025, if there is official approval.
In order for transpraia to be effective, it will be necessary to authorize the competent entities, such as the Almada City Council. In addition, the execution of the project depends on partnerships between the public and private sector. The responsible team works with the goal of reactivating the service in the summer of 2026. Until then, the technical studies and the institutional contacts need to make their viability continue.
Bureaucratic challenges condition reactivation
The bureaucracy associated with the project has hindered expected progress. Gregory points out the lack of clarity in processes as one of the greatest barriers. Contacted by, the Chamber of Almada claimed to have no news to add. However, previous statements by President Inês de Medeiros reveal the municipality’s interest in modernizing and expanding transpraia, with the possibility of connecting it to the Trafaria, creating a connection with the Belém river station.
The shift of the Transpraia Terminal in 2007 to a zone further from the center of Caparica was pointed out as one of the factors that contributed to its fall. With this change, service revenues fell about 60%, according to statements by former administrators. The new proposal intends to correct this removal, rapporting the train from the urban center and other transport infrastructure.
Sustainability at the center of the new proposal
Among the project objectives is the transition to a more sustainable mobility model. The progressive electrification of the train is under analysis, with different cost scenarios for conversion from one to four compositions. “We will make a transition to make the trains more sustainable,” Gregory tells the same source. Despite the modernization, the intention is to maintain the classic image of transpraia, respecting its history and connection to the community.
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Expansion plans also include the possibility of extending the line to the center of Caparica or to the metro network. However, these proposals remain just ideas, without agreements signed with local authorities. Gregory expresses the desire to see advances in the coming months. The balance between tradition and innovation has been a constant concern throughout the rehabilitation process.
Studies point to impact on mobility
The Transpraia team conducted internal studies on the effects of reactivation of the service on local mobility. Conclusions point to a possible 10% reduction in automotive traffic and about 20% in illegal parking. This impact will be particularly relevant in the summer months, when the number of visitors increases significantly and the pressure on road roads is higher.
There is not yet an official table for ticket prices, but there is the intention of practicing accessible values for residents and visitors. They are being considered modalities, such as daily passes and summer passes. Gregory also revealed the interest in integrating the service into the region’s public transport system. This integration would allow more wide and more articulated use with other means of transport.
Community support has been fundamental
Community involvement has been one of the pillars of the Transpraia reactivation project. The Friends of Transpraia Association has organized various fund promotion and raising activities. Through exhibitions, events and solidarity campaigns, members of the association have contributed to keep the train’s memory alive and raise awareness of the importance of their recovery.
Between May 29 and June 9, the Association promotes an art exhibition and a solidarity sale, with the participation of local artists and figures such as vhils. The raised funds will be destined to the continuation of the restoration work. “Since we made public the purchase of transpraia, we have received huge support from people. It is a unanimous feeling, where everyone wants transpraia to return to life,” Gregory says in statements to the Portuguese capital portal.
Transpraia is not just a means of transport: it represents affective memories for many Caparica residents. “From a young age I remember the train. It’s an asset,” shared a local salesperson, who preferred to keep anonymous. Another resident adds: “gives more life to the coast.” These opinions reinforce the symbolic importance of the train’s return to the identity of the area.
Return with strong emotional burden
Gregory Bernard admits the personal impact that the reactivation of transpraia will have for himself. “I will be the first client and I will cry for joy, if I can be on the first trip back,” he said.
The realization of this project also depends on several technical and administrative factors, but the team’s determination and the support of the community keep the dream alive. The return of Transpraia could mark a new stage for Costa da Caparica.
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