The international certification “highlights the exceptional natural beauty of Serra da Estrela, it's rich biodiversity and geodiversity, and its commitment to sustainable tourism practices, placing it among the main mountain destinations in the world”, highlighted RUDE – Rural Development Association, in a press release sent to Lusa news agency.

The certification resulted from an application led by RUDE, with the support of the municipalities of Serra da Estrela, the Intermunicipal Community of Beiras and Serra da Estrela, Estrela UNESCO Global Geopark and Turismo do Centro.

The recognition “solidifies Serra da Estrela’s position as a mountain and nature destination and reinforces the region’s commitment to sustainable tourism, balancing tourism promotion with environmental preservation”.

The distinction was announced at the International Conference on Mountain Tourism and Nature Sports, which is taking place in the Chinese province of Guizhou.

According to the president of RUDE, Carlos Pinto, quoted in the note, the certification will raise the profile of Serra da Estrela as an excellent destination for nature tourism, benefiting both the environment and local communities.

“It is expected that the ‘World Famous Tourism Mountain’ certification will increase international interest in Serra da Estrela, attracting more visitors, especially those interested in nature tourism, but also in the history and culture of this territory”, he stressed.