The beginning of June signaled the starter of the bathing season in virtually every beaches of Portugal. A few weeks before the beaches began to have surveillance of salvator swimmers, the list of are already ranging from the recognized Blue Flag, a symbol of environmental quality and safety. The list is public and there is a Portuguese beach that remains the only one in the world to never have lost this distinction.
In an unparalleled feat worldwide, Mira Beach, located on the center of Portugal, is once again standing out for its environmental excellence. For the 39th consecutive year, this beach was recognized with the Blue Flag, being the only beach on the planet to keep this award every year since the creation of the program in 1987.
Oeiras officialized award
The assignment was formalized on April 30, in a ceremony that took place at the Vasco da Gama Aquarium in Oeiras. The Blue Flag Association of Environment and Education (ABAAE) was responsible for the announcement, reinforcing the environmental commitment of Praia de Mira with the sustainability and preservation of its natural heritage.
In addition to the distinction of this beach, the municipality of Mira saw another sand to be valued at the ceremony. Poço da Cruz Beach was also distinguished again, conquering its 19th consecutive year with blue flag. A result that consolidates the image of the municipality as a national example in environmental management and responsible tourism promotion.
Recognition of a joint effort
Fresh Arthur, Mayor of Mira, highlighted the symbolism of the moment, underlining the active involvement of the local population. “Mira beach is today a reference both nationally and international. This 39th consecutive award is a historical feat that reflects the collective effort of the municipality, local entities, our employees and, above all, our community.”
The mayor also, which made a point of praising the environmental consistency of Poço da Cruz Beach, noting that “there are 19 years followed by distinction that reflects our commitment to the preservation of the coast, respect for the environment and our commitment to local identity”.
Environmental rigor as a criterion
Water quality, safety, accessibility and promotion of environmental education are among the criteria that allowed this achievement. Mira Beach continues to comply with excellence the requirements of the Blue Flag International Program.
With origins linked to an ancient fishing community known by the Mira Pares, the place has evolved without losing its character. Currently, the region’s ethnographic museum preserves the memory of these times, receiving visitors in a carefully recovered haystack.
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Bathing essence with history
The transformation of Mira beach into a bathing resort came to streamline the region. Its gold sands, accompanied by dunes and bathed by the Atlantic, are now a meeting point for surfers and nature lovers, while the National Forest welcomes the Barrinha Lagoon, where activities such as candle, canoeing and windsurf can be performed.
Located between Aveiro, Figueira da Foz and Coimbra, Mira belongs to the Gândara region, a territory that preserves traditions in gastronomy, landscape and local culture, passed from generation to generation.
Nature and adventure of ‘hands’
In addition to the rewarded beaches, the county also offers conditions for nature tourism. With more than 20 kilometers of cyclopedonal roads and six signposted pedestrians, visitors can safely discover a landscape rich in lagoons, forests, fields and ria zones.
Traditional cuisine is another of the region’s business cards. Douts, such as grilled fish with potatoes and fresh fish stew illustrate the strong connection between the community, the sea and the earth.
Culture and Sport all year
The calendar of cultural and sports activities is vast and takes place throughout the year. From the BTT Rota das Lagoas and Athletics Tests, to popular parties and New Year’s Eve RFM at Mira Beach, there are many options for those who visit the municipality of Mira.
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