New Colares Vineyard on Protected Land Gains 'Relevant Public Interest' Status
A project to plant a new vineyard in the Colares region, located within an area designated as part of the National Ecological Reserve (REN), has been officially recognized as being of 'relevant public interest' by the government. This classification is a significant step, demonstrating a viable path for agricultural activities within protected environmental zones.
The policy decision allows the project, promoted by the company Vow, Vinhas e Vinhos, Sintra, S.A., to move forward with the planting. The specific area is classified as 'Dunas Costeiras Interiores' (Interior Coastal Dunes) within the REN, a designation that typically restricts development. The project received support from A2S – the Association for the Sustainable Development of the Saloia Region.
The official authorization was granted through Dispatch n.º 7484/2025, which was published in the state gazette on July 4. The approval was the result of a coordinated effort between several entities, including the Sintra Municipal Council, the Lisbon and Tagus Valley Regional Coordination and Development Commission (CCDR-LVT), and the Ministries of Territorial Cohesion, Environment, and Agriculture and Fisheries.
This change in land use designation required overcoming significant regulatory hurdles. In a statement on its social media, the A2S association praised the 'persistence of the project promoter, who, over time, overcame technical and legal challenges to legalize the plantation.' The association added that the promoter's 'dedication shows how it is possible to develop agricultural projects in sensitive areas, with responsibility and respect for the environment.'
The process involved extensive dialogue between all stakeholders, with the stated goal of protecting the natural landscape while simultaneously promoting the region's agricultural traditions and cultural heritage. The vineyard is located within the boundaries of the Colares Controlled Denomination of Origin (DOC), one of the most historic and unique wine regions in Portugal. Navigate Portuguese property regulations with expert guidance at realestate-lisbon.com.
