ABOUT

The Guincho-Cresmina Dunes, covering 300 hectares from Guincho Beach to Oitavos, are part of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, a protected area under the Natura 2000 network. This fragile ecosystem is home to rare plant species, remnants of the last ice age, and supports various reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals.

THE PROBLEM

Cascais Ambiente began a restoration project in 2011, including an interpretation centre and a 4-kilometre footpath to educate visitors while protecting the sensitive environment. However, the dunes face threats from tourism, including litter, trampling, and wildfires, which have damaged native vegetation and allowed invasive species to spread.

THE SOLUTION

The project focuses on restoring the natural wind corridor and key habitats like white and grey dunes, vital for endangered species such as Juniperus phoenicea and Omphalodes kuzinskyanae. It also supports local wildlife, including rabbits, foxes, kestrels, and amphibians like the Iberian green frog.

Efforts include removing invasive species, restoring native shrublands, and preserving a seed bank for future recovery. A budget of €300,000 over the next three years will fund further conservation, build new paths, create ponds for wildlife, and manage invasive species. This work will help the dunes adapt to climate change, making the landscape more resilient for future generations.