Algarve’s only Blue Flag river beach raises prestigious flag

A Blue Flag was officially raised on Wednesday, July 1, at Odeleite River Beach, making it the only river beach in the Algarve to hold the internationally recognised environmental distinction.

Located at the Odeleite Reservoir Nautical Activities Centre in the municipality of Castro Marim, the freshwater bathing area received the award in recognition of its standards for water quality, environmental management, accessibility, safety and visitor services, the Municipal Council of Castro Marim said in a statement.

The bathing area – which just opened last week – features floating swimming pools, a beach bar with a terrace, shaded leisure areas, toilets and parking, while the surrounding reservoir also offers opportunities for nature-based recreation.

The municipality also hopes the Odeleite Nautical Activities Centre will develop into a year-round destination. Now that the reservoir’s management plan has been approved, the council aims to expand sporting activities at the site and attract European canoeing teams for training camps outside the summer season.

The Blue Flag distinction makes Odeleite unique in the Algarve, where all other award-winning bathing areas are located along the coast.

Michael Bruxo

Journalist for the Portugal Resident.