Since 2021, the Portuguese Highway Code has prohibited motor homes from staying overnight in nature, but the habit has persisted and continues to leave traces.
The disorderly practice of wild ‘caravanning’ is emptying the campsites of the Southwest Alentejo and the Costa Vicentina. Entrepreneurs say this may have been the worst summer ever for the sector and are calling for more enforcement.
The intention is to stay as close to the beach as possible and at zero cost, even if that means breaking the law. Amado beach, in Aljezur, is just one example of what happens all along the coast, from Sagres to São Torpes, where dozens of camper vans stay overnight.
In the case of Joaquim, who owns a campsite, the month of July was already showing signs of slowing down and after the peak in bookings in August, it was downhill all the way. Since 2021, the Portuguese Highway Code has prohibited motor homes from staying overnight in natural areas, but the habit has persisted and continues to leave traces.
Last year at this time, 80 motor home owners were fined in Aljezur and Vila do Bispo in a single enforcement action. Business owners and mayors agree that it’s not enough to intervene from time to time, but the lack of GNR personnel doesn’t always help compliance with the law.
Overnight stays or camping outside designated areas are punishable by a fine of between 60 and 300 euros. In natural park areas, penalties can range from 120 to 600 euros.