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Secretaria Regional do Turismo, Mobilidade e Infraestruturas
Berta Cabral defends that Sustainability Charter symbolises strategic commitment to modernisation and development of the Azores
Berta Cabral defends that Sustainability Charter symbolises strategic commitment to modernisation and development of the Azores
Secretaria Regional do Turismo, Mobilidade e Infraestruturas
Diversification of Regional Network of Hiking Trails qualifies destination and decentralises tourist flows, says Berta Cabral
Diversification of Regional Network of Hiking Trails qualifies destination and decentralises tourist flows, says Berta Cabral
Secretaria Regional do Turismo, Mobilidade e Infraestruturas
New Azores Tourism portal provides tourists and investors with easier access to tourist information
New Azores Tourism portal provides tourists and investors with easier access to tourist information
March 31, 2025
Berta Cabral defends that Sustainability Charter symbolises strategic commitment to modernisation and development of the Azores
February 21, 2025
Diversification of Regional Network of Hiking Trails qualifies destination and decentralises tourist flows, says Berta Cabral
November 13, 2024
New Azores Tourism portal provides tourists and investors with easier access to tourist information
News
Nota de Imprensa
March 31, 2025
Berta Cabral defends that Sustainability Charter symbolises strategic commitment to modernisation and development of the Azores
The Regional Secretary for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures, Berta Cabral, stated that the Azores Sustainability Charter reiterates the Azorean Government's firm commitment "to promoting and enhancing sustainability in the Region." Berta Cabral spoke Friday at the opening of the Forum "Progress of the Azores Sustainability Charter" at Nonagon - São Miguel Science and Technology Park in Lagoa, São Miguel Island. According to her, the Charter was conceived with a pioneering vision, aimed at transforming challenges into specific opportunities. "Since its launch, the pillars of cooperation, transparency, leadership and governance have guided the signatory organisations. This project, strongly backed by government investment, symbolises a strategic commitment to modernisation and sustainable economic development, which combines competitiveness with the preservation of our precious natural resources," she said. The Regional Secretary recalled that this strategic commitment is also acknowledged internationally, with the Gold Certification of the Azores as a sustainable destination by EarthCheck, a milestone that positions the Region as a global benchmark in reconciling economic development and environmental preservation. According to Berta Cabral, the Azores have grown in a sustained and sustainable manner when it comes to tourism, with an increase in revenue much higher than the growth in overnight stays and guests, representing more quality than quantity. As for the Azores Sustainability Charter, she noted that this "has also been consolidated year on year, and already includes 295 entities, including signatories and declarations of interest, with 14 of these being municipalities." The Regional Secretary highlighted all the work carried out, such as the promotion of 59 events and the training of more than 1,100 people, emphasising that these figures evidence "a collective commitment that grows and strengthens, demonstrating the transformative power of cooperation." She also emphasised the launch of the Regional Sustainability Award in November 2024, which consolidates the Regional Government's commitment to promoting corporate responsibility and innovation practices. "The 12 applications received and carefully assessed prove the positive impact of this initiative." The Azorean Government “is fully committed to encouraging and recognising the best examples of sustainable management, demonstrating that everyone's participation is essential for the transformation and modernisation of the regional economy.” As she stated, the Regional Sustainability Award reflects this goal and the foundations of the Charter (Leadership, Governance, Collaboration and Transparency) "reflect a strong commitment to sustainable practices." Berta Cabral thanked the Jury (João Ferrão, Teresa Tiago and Laetitia Arrighi) for their collaboration in selecting and analysing the applications. The selection was based on a "careful analysis using strict criteria regarding the technical quality, impact on the 2030 Agenda, integration into the Charter, innovation in processes and business models, and the establishment of partnerships." This ensured that the award winners stand out in the various dimensions of sustainability, and are a clear reflection of the collective effort and best practices they are promoting. She also thanked the signatories for their active and committed participation, which is fundamental to the success of this project. "The ongoing dialogue and close collaboration between the Government, through the Destination Sustainability Management Structure - DMO, and these entities reflects a shared commitment to sustainability and excellence in management," she said. The government official also emphasised the DMO's initiative and action and the Regional Directorate for Tourism in designing and conducting the entire process, which resulted in the Gold Certification of Destination Azores and the Regional Sustainability Award. It was a collective endeavour and a partnership between the Government and the private sector that evidences the individual effort and the joint efforts that "have the power to build a more resilient, innovative and sustainable future," stressed Berta Cabral. She concluded: "Our outlook for the future is marked by optimism and the determination to continue investing in sustainability. This event is another privileged space for sharing experiences and constructive debate. It symbolises the continuity of our political commitment to transforming current challenges into opportunities for growth and improvement for all citizens."
March 31, 2025
Berta Cabral defends that Sustainability Charter symbolises strategic commitment to modernisation and development of the Azores
The Regional Secretary for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures, Berta Cabral, stated that the Azores Sustainability Charter reiterates the Azorean Government's firm commitment "to promoting and enhancing sustainability in the Region." Berta Cabral spoke Friday at the opening of the Forum "Progress of the Azores Sustainability Charter" at Nonagon - São Miguel Science and Technology Park in Lagoa, São Miguel Island. According to her, the Charter was conceived with a pioneering vision, aimed at transforming challenges into specific opportunities. "Since its launch, the pillars of cooperation, transparency, leadership and governance have guided the signatory organisations. This project, strongly backed by government investment, symbolises a strategic commitment to modernisation and sustainable economic development, which combines competitiveness with the preservation of our precious natural resources," she said. The Regional Secretary recalled that this strategic commitment is also acknowledged internationally, with the Gold Certification of the Azores as a sustainable destination by EarthCheck, a milestone that positions the Region as a global benchmark in reconciling economic development and environmental preservation. According to Berta Cabral, the Azores have grown in a sustained and sustainable manner when it comes to tourism, with an increase in revenue much higher than the growth in overnight stays and guests, representing more quality than quantity. As for the Azores Sustainability Charter, she noted that this "has also been consolidated year on year, and already includes 295 entities, including signatories and declarations of interest, with 14 of these being municipalities." The Regional Secretary highlighted all the work carried out, such as the promotion of 59 events and the training of more than 1,100 people, emphasising that these figures evidence "a collective commitment that grows and strengthens, demonstrating the transformative power of cooperation." She also emphasised the launch of the Regional Sustainability Award in November 2024, which consolidates the Regional Government's commitment to promoting corporate responsibility and innovation practices. "The 12 applications received and carefully assessed prove the positive impact of this initiative." The Azorean Government “is fully committed to encouraging and recognising the best examples of sustainable management, demonstrating that everyone's participation is essential for the transformation and modernisation of the regional economy.” As she stated, the Regional Sustainability Award reflects this goal and the foundations of the Charter (Leadership, Governance, Collaboration and Transparency) "reflect a strong commitment to sustainable practices." Berta Cabral thanked the Jury (João Ferrão, Teresa Tiago and Laetitia Arrighi) for their collaboration in selecting and analysing the applications. The selection was based on a "careful analysis using strict criteria regarding the technical quality, impact on the 2030 Agenda, integration into the Charter, innovation in processes and business models, and the establishment of partnerships." This ensured that the award winners stand out in the various dimensions of sustainability, and are a clear reflection of the collective effort and best practices they are promoting. She also thanked the signatories for their active and committed participation, which is fundamental to the success of this project. "The ongoing dialogue and close collaboration between the Government, through the Destination Sustainability Management Structure - DMO, and these entities reflects a shared commitment to sustainability and excellence in management," she said. The government official also emphasised the DMO's initiative and action and the Regional Directorate for Tourism in designing and conducting the entire process, which resulted in the Gold Certification of Destination Azores and the Regional Sustainability Award. It was a collective endeavour and a partnership between the Government and the private sector that evidences the individual effort and the joint efforts that "have the power to build a more resilient, innovative and sustainable future," stressed Berta Cabral. She concluded: "Our outlook for the future is marked by optimism and the determination to continue investing in sustainability. This event is another privileged space for sharing experiences and constructive debate. It symbolises the continuity of our political commitment to transforming current challenges into opportunities for growth and improvement for all citizens."
Nota de Imprensa
February 21, 2025
Diversification of Regional Network of Hiking Trails qualifies destination and decentralises tourist flows, says Berta Cabral
Fourteen new hiking trails are being implemented, which will be part of the Regional Network of Hiking Trails shortly, along with three new trail proposals approved at the last meeting of the Hiking Trails Monitoring Committee (CAPP). The Regional Secretary for Tourism, Berta Cabral, defended that "these interventions fall within the destination qualification policy defined in the Strategic and Marketing Plan for Tourism in the Azores (PEMTA 2030), expanding and diversifying the Regional Network of Hiking Trails in the Azores." Currently, the Regional Network of Hiking Trails has 96 approved hiking trails, totalling 838 km signposted with internationally recognised marks and codes that ensure safety conditions for hikers and environmental protection in the areas where they are located. "For two consecutive years, we have been distinguished as the “Best Adventure Tourism Destination in the World” and these new routes allow us to continue the work of elevating the tourist experience and consolidating the Azores' position as a destination of excellence for this type of tourism - active, silent, nature and adventure tourism," stressed Berta Cabral. Two of the three proposals for new hiking trails are located in Terceira, and the other in São Jorge. On the island of Terceira, the proposal to create the Lagoa do Cerro Trail, 5.5 kilometres long, was approved by the Angra do Heroísmo City Council. It highlights the Lagoa do Cerro, which gives the trail its name, a wetland of great ecological interest and a privileged place for observing local and migratory birds. There is also the Ribeiras/Matas da Agualva Trail, about eight kilometres long, presented by the Agualva Parish Council. It features a rich historical and cultural heritage linked to the water architecture, with mills, "pulos" (waterfalls), gullies, stone sinks, washhouses and other interesting infrastructures that portray the historical connection between the community and the local water resources. On São Jorge Island, the Santo Antão Parish Council presented the Grutões Trail, which is around 6.5 kilometres long, taking visitors to the "Grutões" site and passing by Fajã de São João. This route provides a unique experience for experienced hikers, immersed in nature and local history, recalling the ancient crossings that connected people to the fajãs in search of milder climates during the winter. The promoters of these new approved trails will implement the routes by the beginning of next year. The Regional Directorate for Tourism will be responsible for the respective signposting as well as the installation of information panels and promotion on the Tourism Portal. The Regional Network of Hiking Trails in the Azores is systematically monitored, supervised and improved by the Support Centre for Nature Tourism Activities of the Regional Tourism Directorate. In 2024, 183 monitoring reports were produced, corresponding to more than 2,000 km travelled and inspected on the various trails that make up the network, which resulted in 85 remediation actions. At the end of the year, 8 routes were temporarily closed, mostly due to safety issues related to geomorphological instability. In addition, significant work was carried out on signpost maintenance, particularly on the islands of Pico and Flores, where the signs and trailheads were improved. This work is fundamental to ensuring the quality and safety of hiking trails, a pillar of sustainable tourism in the Azores. Berta Cabral recalled that "hiking trails continue to be one of the region's main tourist attractions, providing visitors and residents with the opportunity to explore the natural beauty, cultural richness and history of the islands by foot. This brings them into genuine contact with Nature and, often, with the Human nature" of the Azores. The Hiking Trails Monitoring Committee is composed of the following members: a representative of the Regional Directorate for Tourism, a representative of the Regional Directorate for the Environment and Climate Action, a representative of the Regional Directorate for Forest Resources, a representative of VisitAzores and a representative of hiking associations in the Region. It also includes a representative of the Association of Municipalities of the Autonomous Region of the Azores and a representative of the Regional Branch of the National Association of Parishes. This committee is responsible, among other things, for reviewing or revoking the classifications of hiking trails and issuing opinions on matters concerning hiking trails.
February 21, 2025
Diversification of Regional Network of Hiking Trails qualifies destination and decentralises tourist flows, says Berta Cabral
Fourteen new hiking trails are being implemented, which will be part of the Regional Network of Hiking Trails shortly, along with three new trail proposals approved at the last meeting of the Hiking Trails Monitoring Committee (CAPP). The Regional Secretary for Tourism, Berta Cabral, defended that "these interventions fall within the destination qualification policy defined in the Strategic and Marketing Plan for Tourism in the Azores (PEMTA 2030), expanding and diversifying the Regional Network of Hiking Trails in the Azores." Currently, the Regional Network of Hiking Trails has 96 approved hiking trails, totalling 838 km signposted with internationally recognised marks and codes that ensure safety conditions for hikers and environmental protection in the areas where they are located. "For two consecutive years, we have been distinguished as the “Best Adventure Tourism Destination in the World” and these new routes allow us to continue the work of elevating the tourist experience and consolidating the Azores' position as a destination of excellence for this type of tourism - active, silent, nature and adventure tourism," stressed Berta Cabral. Two of the three proposals for new hiking trails are located in Terceira, and the other in São Jorge. On the island of Terceira, the proposal to create the Lagoa do Cerro Trail, 5.5 kilometres long, was approved by the Angra do Heroísmo City Council. It highlights the Lagoa do Cerro, which gives the trail its name, a wetland of great ecological interest and a privileged place for observing local and migratory birds. There is also the Ribeiras/Matas da Agualva Trail, about eight kilometres long, presented by the Agualva Parish Council. It features a rich historical and cultural heritage linked to the water architecture, with mills, "pulos" (waterfalls), gullies, stone sinks, washhouses and other interesting infrastructures that portray the historical connection between the community and the local water resources. On São Jorge Island, the Santo Antão Parish Council presented the Grutões Trail, which is around 6.5 kilometres long, taking visitors to the "Grutões" site and passing by Fajã de São João. This route provides a unique experience for experienced hikers, immersed in nature and local history, recalling the ancient crossings that connected people to the fajãs in search of milder climates during the winter. The promoters of these new approved trails will implement the routes by the beginning of next year. The Regional Directorate for Tourism will be responsible for the respective signposting as well as the installation of information panels and promotion on the Tourism Portal. The Regional Network of Hiking Trails in the Azores is systematically monitored, supervised and improved by the Support Centre for Nature Tourism Activities of the Regional Tourism Directorate. In 2024, 183 monitoring reports were produced, corresponding to more than 2,000 km travelled and inspected on the various trails that make up the network, which resulted in 85 remediation actions. At the end of the year, 8 routes were temporarily closed, mostly due to safety issues related to geomorphological instability. In addition, significant work was carried out on signpost maintenance, particularly on the islands of Pico and Flores, where the signs and trailheads were improved. This work is fundamental to ensuring the quality and safety of hiking trails, a pillar of sustainable tourism in the Azores. Berta Cabral recalled that "hiking trails continue to be one of the region's main tourist attractions, providing visitors and residents with the opportunity to explore the natural beauty, cultural richness and history of the islands by foot. This brings them into genuine contact with Nature and, often, with the Human nature" of the Azores. The Hiking Trails Monitoring Committee is composed of the following members: a representative of the Regional Directorate for Tourism, a representative of the Regional Directorate for the Environment and Climate Action, a representative of the Regional Directorate for Forest Resources, a representative of VisitAzores and a representative of hiking associations in the Region. It also includes a representative of the Association of Municipalities of the Autonomous Region of the Azores and a representative of the Regional Branch of the National Association of Parishes. This committee is responsible, among other things, for reviewing or revoking the classifications of hiking trails and issuing opinions on matters concerning hiking trails.
