A centuries-old forest in Portugal has joined one of the world’s most exclusive wellness groups. Buçaco National Forest, known locally as Mata Nacional do Bussaco, officially became a certified therapeutic forest on July 17.
It is the first forest on the Iberian Peninsula and one of only four worldwide to receive the international designation. Until Buçaco joined the list, every internationally certified healing forest was located in Austria or Germany.
It recognizes forests that meet specific standards for structured therapy programs, including quiet surroundings, clean air, accessible paths and services from trained professionals.
Located near the town of Luso in central Portugal, the forest covers approximately 260 acres. Its combination of biodiversity, historic buildings and peaceful walking paths has attracted visitors for centuries.
Buçaco joins only three other certified forests
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The official Municipality of Mealhada Facebook post shared the announcement and images from the certification ceremony. Municipal officials said Buçaco’s certificate remains valid through July 17, 2031. The ceremony included the unveiling of a marker for the forest’s therapeutic trail and an immersive activity that introduced participants to the surrounding environment through their senses.
The forest joins three previously certified locations in Austria and Germany. The International Certification Office Healing Forest maintains a separate list of forests designated under German state law, but those are not part of the same international certification program.
Buçaco spent several years working toward the designation. The forest’s certification required document reviews, an on-site inspection, and evaluations by forestry and medical-therapeutic experts.
A healing forest must meet specific requirements
The certifying organization’s standards require a relatively natural forest that can reduce noise and provide protection from wind. It must also have paths with different difficulty levels, designated areas for relaxation or therapeutic activities, and regular access to trained forest therapists or other qualified professionals.
Forest therapy is intended to complement conventional care, not replace medical treatment. Depending on the program, activities may include guided walks, breathing exercises, sensory activities and quiet periods spent focusing on the natural surroundings.
The concept is related to the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, commonly translated as forest bathing. However, certified forest therapy is more structured and can involve programs tailored to people with specific health needs.
Visitors can explore more than 250 plant species
The Mata do Bussaco Foundation says the forest contains approximately 250 species of trees and shrubs, making it one of Europe’s most notable collections of woody plants.
The site’s history dates back to 1628, when Discalced Carmelite monks founded the Convent of Santa Cruz. Visitors can still explore the convent along with historic gardens, lakes, walking trails, the Valley of the Ferns and the Palace Hotel do Bussaco.
The forest is open year-round except on Christmas Day. According to the foundation’s visitor information, entry on foot or by bicycle is free, while visitors arriving by vehicle must pay an entrance fee.
The forest is generally open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. between June and September and from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the winter. Travelers hoping to participate in a guided therapeutic activity should check the foundation’s event schedule before visiting, as the certification does not guarantee a therapy session is available every day.