Algarve Caravanning Route RAARA launched in December 2015
End of 2015 a route of campsites, service areas and rural camping parks aiming at motor homers has been launched
Sunday, 27 December 2015 | Tourism
As The Portugal News reports, the network comprises 22 infrastructures in total including 11 campsites, six service stations and two rural camping spots. Named the Home Network for Motor-Caravanning in the Algarve Region (RAARA) the route was unveiled a few days ago at the Espiche campsite in Lagos and culminated in the handing out of plaques to the participating founding entities. Others can still sign up.
Figures estimate that eighty percent of the country’s motor homers flock to the Algarve, and ninety percent of those are foreigners. The increasingly numerous presence of motor homes in the Algarve has long been a bone of contention among locals. While some praise the seasonal visitors for buoying local economies during slower seasons, others criticise the campers for setting up in non-authorised spots, accusing them of being an eyesore and taking advantage of the Algarve’s resources.
Describing motor homing as “a factor of economic development”, Desidério Silva, head of the Algarve Tourism Board (RTA), added it brings “people to the Algarve for its climate and security.” He stressed the activity’s importance for the region’s low-seasons, explaining “these people consume culture, cuisine, crafts, wines, and contribute greatly to the local economy, especially in autumn, winter and spring."
“The network has been created, now it’s up to each of us to do our job!” the head of the RTA urged.