Motorhome overnight rules in Portugal: ASA, fines and restrictions

Portugal's Law No. 66/2021 restricts motorhome parking in protected areas and coastal zones, but three inland municipalities still offer free parking. Arouca provides 10 spaces (6 in the town centre, 4 in Espiunca) with free 48-hour parking, except on fair days. Castelo de Paiva and Cinfães also offer free parking with no time limit, though Castelo de Paiva prohibits parking on fair days, and Cinfães has 8 spaces in Souselo park and a paid campsite in Mourilhe. Violating rules in protected areas results in fines of €60 to €600.

Before a long motorhome trip, a technical check is essential. Bruno Gomes, technical director of ACP Assistance, recommends a test drive and inspection of oil and coolant levels, tire pressure and condition, air conditioning, and water system leaks. Special attention should be paid to water circuits, gas systems, skylights, and antennas, as their failure can cause serious risks. Due to the vehicle's weight, tire changes are best left to roadside assistance; for electric motorhomes, incorrect jack placement can damage the battery pack.

A British couple bought an abandoned caravan park in Portugal and turned it into a tourist accommodation complex. The project involved restoring infrastructure and creating camping spots.

On Friday, the National Republican Guard (GNR) conducted an operation against illegal camping on Ermal Island in Vieira do Minho. Numerous tents and motorhomes were removed, and beaches near the island were also inspected. The operation uncovered unlicensed establishments with illegal water and electricity connections, as well as traces of campfires, which are banned due to fire risk. Ermal Island, once known for a music festival, attracts hundreds of visitors despite a camping ban on its river beaches.

The Labour Court of Leiria has ordered the Leiria City Council to hire four workers from the Pedrógão Beach Campsite who lost their jobs after the council took administrative possession of the municipal complex and the company that employed them lost its concession.

The organization Counting Stars, specializing in astronomical experiences, invites campers to the fifth edition of Star Camp on August 8, 2026, in Fafe, next to the Casa do Penedo. Participants can observe stars and planets through telescopes, attend an astrophotography workshop, have dinner, camp overnight, and enjoy breakfast at sunrise. Prices: €85 for adults, €149 for couples, €22 for children aged 7–12, and €68 per person for groups of three or more. Participants must bring their own camping gear.