Story perspectives

Buçaco National Forest Becomes Portugal’s Fourth Therapeutic Forest

8/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Buçaco National Forest was certified as Portugal’s fourth therapeutic forest, first in the Iberian Peninsula, until 2031.
Certification requires near-natural state, therapeutic zones, varied paths and trained therapists.
Fundação Mata do Buçaco reported 250 plant species and 56 animal species, some rare or endangered.
President Gonçalo Breda Marques said the status gives forest recognition and responsibility, citing studies that forest bathing lowered cortisol in 2019 and reduced urban stress in 2022.

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Story summary

Buçaco National Forest was certified as Portugal’s fourth therapeutic forest, first in the Iberian Peninsula, until 2031.
Certification requires near-natural state, therapeutic zones, varied paths and trained therapists.
Fundação Mata do Buçaco reported 250 plant species and 56 animal species, some rare or endangered.
President Gonçalo Breda Marques said the status gives forest recognition and responsibility, citing studies that forest bathing lowered cortisol in 2019 and reduced urban stress in 2022.