AlgarvianRoots

AlgarvianRoots develops ecotourism experiences across the Algarve, aiming to diversify the region's tourism offer beyond its traditional sun-and-beach image. Based in Silves, the company organises guided hikes, e-bike adventures, birdwatching outings, full-day excursions, tailor-made trips, workshops, and farm stay accommodation, all designed to highlight the Algarve's fauna, flora, and cultural traditions. Guides lead visitors through iconic landscapes such as the Costa Vicentina Natural Park and the Seven Hanging Valleys, sharing knowledge of local biodiversity, traditional dry-farming practices (almond, fig, carob, and olive trees), and rural heritage. The company also runs cultural experiences, such as traditional Portuguese tile-painting workshops, and welcomes international groups, from students to tourism industry representatives. Founded and led by Francisco Simões, AlgarvianRoots positions itself as a champion of sustainable, low-impact tourism, actively raising awareness about the environmental degradation caused by mass tourism at popular natural sites. The team has publicly called on local authorities to improve management and conservation of over-visited areas, warning that unchecked visitor pressure threatens the fragile natural heritage that draws people to the region in the first place. Recognised by Turismo de Portugal and featured on platforms such as Visit Portugal, TripAdvisor, and GetYourGuide, AlgarvianRoots combines commercial tourism operations with a strong ethical stance on conservation, positioning ecotourism as both an economic opportunity and a tool for protecting the Algarve's unique landscapes for future generations.