Much-loved attraction near famous Portugal beach introduces new tourist rules

A POPULAR hot spot near a famous beach in Portugal has introduced new rules for tourists.

One of Portugal’s most Insta-famous spots, the stunning Benagil Caves, has just slapped down a strict new set of rules – and tourists better take note if they want to avoid a hefty fine.

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From today, the picturesque Benagil Caves in the Algarve are off-limits for swimming and sunbathing inside.

Tough new regulations aim to protect the area’s natural beauty and prevent overcrowding.

The caves, known for their jaw-dropping skylight that opens up to the heavens, have long been a hotspot for holidaymakers.

But now, even thinking about paddling over without a guide or dropping anchor in the sandy cove could see you in hot water – literally and financially.

In a bid to keep the area safe and sustainable, the new rules – officially rolled out on July 30 – ban private and commercial vessels from disembarking inside the caves.

Swimming and using floaties to reach the caves are also now totally forbidden.

And if you’re planning to kayak, you’d better book a tour – hiring a kayak without a guide is no longer allowed.

The new guidelines also limit the number of boats and kayaks allowed inside the caves at any one time.

Kayak tours must now stick to a strict ratio of one guide for every six visitors, ensuring a more controlled experience.

Boat operators flouting the rules could be hit with fines up to a staggering £184,600 (€216,000).

This isn’t just a simple slap on the wrist.

The Benagil Caves Working Group, set up last August, means business – and they’re not messing around when it comes to protecting this natural wonder.

But it’s not just the Benagil Caves that are feeling the pinch of new rules.

Portugal’s getting serious about its booming tourist industry – and it’s not all sunshine and selfies.

Last year, the Portuguese government laid down the law with a fresh batch of measures to tackle the country’s housing crisis.

One of the most controversial moves was the ban on new licenses for Airbnbs and other short-term holiday rentals.

With rents soaring by 37 per cent and wages lagging far behind, locals have been priced out of their own homes.

Prime Minister Antonio Costa warned that the crisis was hitting every family, not just the most vulnerable, and something had to give.

The government’s housing package sparked fierce debate – and it’s clear the country’s relationship with tourism is shifting.

And for those hoping to snap up a Golden Visa, Portugal’s set to pull the plug on the programme that offers EU passports to non-EU nationals.

Critics have slammed the scheme, saying it’s only driven up property prices even more.

So, If you’re planning a trip to Portugal, keep your ear to the ground and follow the rules – or risk having your dream holiday turn into a costly nightmare.

The sun, sea, and sand may be waiting, but from the caves of Benagil to the bustling streets of Lisbon, things are changing fast.

It’s not just Portugal introducing controversial travel rules.

A travel shake-up is on the horizon for Brits heading to Europe next year, with new rules set to make your holiday plans a bit more complicated.

Brits face a travel warning as new Europe entry rules are set to be introduced next year.

Meanwhile, this popular tourist destination is also planning to increase its daily tourist charge.

And this UK seaside town became the first to tax tourists this year.