Converting Old Buses into Motorhomes: From DIY to Professional Projects

A fire broke out at a motorhome dealership near Mar Shopping in Leça da Palmeira, Matosinhos, Portugal, on the night of June 24, 2026. Several vehicles were destroyed, explosions were heard. No injuries reported, traffic blocked.

The municipality of Ílhavo has applied to the Portuguese Environment Agency for a seasonal motorhome parking lot on a former sports field in Costa Nova. The project includes 90 spaces but faces local opposition.

In Maceira (Leiria), the company Your Caravan has been founded by Anton Gafarov (Russia), Dimitry Plaskunou (Belarus) and Dimitry Semeniuk (Ukraine). The business focuses on converting vehicles into motorhomes. Despite the war between their home countries, the partners stated they maintain friendly relations and work as 'one family'.

The Municipal Campground of Ortiga (Mação) celebrates its 24th anniversary on July 1, 2026. To mark the occasion, it launched a new Facebook page and a contest: participants must follow the page and email a description of their best camping moment by June 29. The winner gets two free nights. The site, located next to the Ortiga reservoir, has about 42 pitches for tents and caravans, free Wi-Fi, accessible toilets, and free hot water.

More Portuguese travelers are choosing motorhomes over hotels. A category B driving license (up to 3.5 tons) covers most rental models. Daily rental costs range from €70 to €350 depending on season and vehicle class. Overnight parking outside campsites is only allowed in designated areas, and deploying awnings or outdoor furniture may be considered illegal camping.

Portuguese manufacturer Casagaea has introduced the "Porto" tiny house on wheels, covering 36 square meters. The model accommodates up to six people with two sleeping areas, a kitchen with an oven, and a bathroom. The price has not been announced, but other Casagaea models range from €40,000 to €65,000. The house can be equipped with an off-grid power system.