The Algarve rolled out the red carpet on Saturday (September 27) in honour of those who have helped the region’s tourism sector reach new heights.
The celebration, held at the Vilamoura Casino, gathered more than 200 guests, marking World Tourism Day as well as the 55th anniversary of the Algarve tourism board (RTA).
Local mayors, business leaders, cultural figures, and partners from across the industry came together for an evening that aimed to recognise leading figures in the region’s tourism sector through the Tourism Medals of the Algarve – the highest honours given by RTA.
Created in 2003, these awards spotlight individuals and groups whose work has boosted tourism and reinforced the Algarve’s reputation. They are divided into two categories: the Tourism Merit Medal and the Gold Tourism Medal.
Here are the winners of the Tourism Merit Medals and the reasons why they were handed out, according to RTA:
- Portuguese Cycling Federation – The federation has played a key role in the promotion of the Algarve as a sports tourism destination, namely through the ‘Volta ao Algarve’ cycling competition, which has helped put the Algarve on the international map.
- AFPOP – Association of Foreign Residents in Portugal – AFPOP has been the go-to support network for foreign residents for decades, helping them settle into life in Portugal. Its flagship event, the BLIP Fair (Better Living in Portugal), not only connects communities but also draws investment and reduces seasonal tourism.
- Hélio Ramos – Through his lens, the Algarve’s landscapes, traditions and people have reached audiences far and wide. His work has provided an “incalculable contribution” to the Algarve’s promotion efforts.
- Tertúlia Algarvia – Since 2006, this cultural and culinary hub has championed local gastronomy. From promoting the iconic cataplana dish to highlighting the Mediterranean diet, Tertúlia Algarvia has helped showcase the best of what the region has to offer.
- AGIGARVE – Association of Certified Guides in the Algarve – With highly trained guides, AGIGARVE has been essential in improving the quality of the tourist experience in the Algarve, providing cultural and linguistic mediation which helps visitors feel closer to the identity and heritage of the Algarve.
- Loulé Criativo – The Loulé-based program has turned creativity into a calling card. By involving artisans and cultural players, Loulé Criativo has given new life to crafts and traditions, while joining the global Creative Tourism Network.
- Via Algarviana – Stretching nearly 300 kilometres, this walking route has transformed the Algarve interior into a must-see destination. Created by Almargem Association and managed alongside local councils, the trail links villages, landscapes, and traditions, attracting hikers and nature lovers year-round.
- Grupo Pestana – Pestana is described as one of the biggest motors of regional tourism. Known for its resorts and golf courses, the group has created jobs, invested heavily in the region and helped promote it abroad, as well as championed sustainability and efficient water management.
- João Leal – A tireless promoter of the Algarve, João Leal has long worked to strengthen tourism through dedication and close ties to local communities. His efforts have shaped the region’s distinctive character as a high-quality destination.
- Lavrar o Mar – This theatre and performance project has brought culture into the heart of towns like Aljezur and Monchique, bringing locals and tourists together while promoting cultural diversity, environmental sustainability and economic development.
- Rota Vicentina – With more than 750 kilometres of trails linking the Algarve to the Alentejo, Rota Vicentina brings together over 200 partners, from local companies to public entities and tour operators from several countries using an innovative cooperation model.
- Orquestra do Algarve – Founded in 2002, the Algarve Orchestra has become one of the region’s biggest artistic institutions. With musicians from 14 countries, it has brought classical music to schools, communities, and major concert halls, representing the Algarve internationally.
RTA also awarded several Gold Tourism Medals:
- Paulo Pinheiro (posthumous) – As CEO of the Algarve International Racetrack, Pinheiro became one of the most visionary figures of tourism and motorsports in Portugal. He helped put the Algarve on the map, attracting major international events to the region.
- Elidérico Viegas (posthumous) – A long-time voice of the Algarve’s hotel sector, Viegas was a passionate advocate for tourism and the hotel sector. His leadership at AHETA, the regional hoteliers’ association, led to a sustainable development of the sector.
- Luís Filipe Madeira – In 1983, Madeira became the first democratically elected president of the Algarve tourism board, helping improve the legitimacy of the institution. He also participated in several key projects which helped the Algarve grow.
- Reinaldo Teixeira – An entrepreneur with a strong presence in real estate, tourism, and sports, Teixeira has been a driving force in promoting the Algarve.
- Isolete Correia – Described as one of the most impactful figures in nautical tourism in the Algarve, Correia is the CEO of Vilamoura Marina, which she has helped transform into one of Europe’s top marinas. Her leadership positioned the Algarve as a nautical tourism hotspot.
- Pedro Lavia – Founder of the Algarve’s Zoomarine theme park in 1989, Lavia combined entertainment with education and conservation, establishing Zoomarine as a leading theme park in Europe, often voted as one of its best. The park attracts millions of visitors every year while advocating for and promoting marine life preservation.
- Alberto Mota Borges – As director of Faro Airport since 2015, Borges has overseen passenger growth from 6.4 million to nearly 10 million annually. His vision modernised services and strengthened the Algarve’s global connectivity.
