EU expats regenerating abandoned rural areas in Portugal

A university study has established that expat incomers from other EU countries are rejuvenating abandoned areas along Portugal’s Spanish borders.

A study by the University of Coimbra’s Centre for Geography and Land Planning Studies has revealed immigrants from elsewhere in Europe have successfully regenerated formerly deserted rural areas along the country’s border with Spain. The study examined migratory patterns, establishing that incomers from central and northern Europe have played a major part in the development of the border regions, thus preventing them from becoming totally abandoned.

Author of the investigation Fatima Velez de Castro pinpointed the settling of expats from the UK, Holland and Germany in the Serra de Sao Mamede over the past decade, saying the region had experienced sizeable positive changes involving renovation and preservation of precious natural and man-made landscapes. Describing the settlers, she explained not all were pensioners, as many expats with high spending power had opted to settle in less populous areas and invest in new businesses promoting local produce.

According to Fatima, rural tourism, wine and olive oil manufacture, farming and fishing businesses owned by incomers are now stimulating the local economy and drawing more expats and tourists to the newly dynamic region. She believes the unspoiled, rural aspect of the area is the initial attraction for immigrants escaping from city life and the stress of Western business, with the less wealthy also arriving to take up jobs in the building trade or agriculture. Interestingly, she states the areas along Portugal’s border with Spain are now home to expats from 164 diverse nationalities.

Formerly, Portugal was seen simply as a haven for retired Britons, most of whom settled along the coastal strip and rarely ventured into the border regions. The investigation centered on seven different areas in Alto Alentejo and was carried out over a five-year period. It also included two Spanish regions, Badajoz and Albuquerque. For expats looking to renew their lives and make a difference, these regions offer a fresh start for incomers of all ages and financial situations in a truly beautiful rural setting.