A major new adventure park, São João da Mata, could be established in the Castanheira de Pera region of central Portugal, with local authorities proposing a significant £10 million investment. This ambitious project aims to enhance the area's appeal as a tourist destination, building upon its existing reputation for natural beauty and recreational facilities. The proposed development is set to cover 45 hectares and introduce a range of attractions designed to draw a wider array of visitors.
Among the key features planned for the São João da Mata adventure park are a substantial zipline, an engaging treetop adventure course, and an exhilarating alpine coaster. Further attractions envisioned include rock climbing facilities, free-jumping trampolines, and a dedicated go-kart circuit tailored for younger children. These additions are expected to provide diverse entertainment options for families and adventure seekers alike, complementing the region's current offerings.
A critical component of the proposal is a 1,000-metre-long cable car. This infrastructure project is intended to link the town directly to the new adventure park, offering both convenient access and panoramic views of the surrounding forest landscape. Crucially, the cable car would also provide direct access to Praia das Rocas, which is already celebrated as Portugal’s largest wave pool. This existing attraction offers a variety of water sports, including canoeing, paddleboarding, paddle surfing, and cable wakeboarding, ensuring a comprehensive leisure experience for visitors.
António Henriques, the Mayor of Castanheira de Pera, has emphasised that the new theme park would be developed with a strong focus on environmental, economic, and social sustainability. He anticipates that the project will generate considerable positive impacts across the central region, including the creation of both direct and indirect employment opportunities. Furthermore, the Mayor expects a revitalisation of the local hospitality sector, encompassing hotels, restaurants, and various local businesses, as tourism numbers increase.
While the local authorities are hopeful that the São João da Mata adventure park will significantly boost Castanheira de Pera's competitiveness as a tourist hotspot, a definitive opening date for the facility has not yet been announced. The project represents a substantial effort to diversify and strengthen the region's tourism infrastructure, offering new reasons for both domestic and international visitors to explore central Portugal.