Alentejo launches 18 Stay Cool climate refuges

The Stay Cool climate refuge network has launched with 18 certified locations across five municipalities in the Alentejo region of Portugal. These sites are distributed among Almodôvar (7), Cuba (7), Mourão (2), Arronches (1), and Castelo de Vide (1).

These refuges, which can be public or private indoor and outdoor spaces, provide free access to amenities designed to protect residents and visitors from extreme heat. Key features include controlled thermal environments, drinking water, and rest areas.

The initiative is part of the ‘Stay Cool’ program promoted by Turismo de Portugal. The regional tourism entity (ERT) aims to expand the network to other municipalities in the Alentejo and Ribatejo regions to increase destination competitiveness during summer months. A one-million-euro budget has been allocated through the ‘Crescer com o Turismo’ program to support the creation and qualification of these sites, offering non-reimbursable incentives that can cover up to 80% of eligible expenses for municipalities and local councils.