As reported by Correio da Manhã, the Prime Minister spent part of Thursday at Garrão Beach, near Almancil in the municipality of Loulé, accompanied by his wife, Carla Montenegro, and other family members.

The presence of PSD parliamentary leader Hugo Soares, who was with his own family, was also noted.

According to the newspaper, the two senior Social Democratic Party figures were seen talking by the shoreline but did not enter the water.

The group reportedly left the beach before 7pm and later travelled to the hotel where the Prime Minister is said to stay during visits to the Algarve.

Official duties

This sighting comes after Luís Montenegro publicly indicated in July that he would not be taking a conventional summer break.

Instead, he said any time off would be limited to occasional weekends or isolated days, provided his official schedule allowed it, stressing that he intended to remain in Portugal to oversee government activity and coordinate the executive’s work.

Earlier this year, opposition parties criticised his attendance at Portugal’s FIFA World Cup matches in the United States while several parts of the country were facing heightened wildfire risk and civil protection authorities had placed regions on alert.

The episode prompted renewed debate between official duties and personal engagements during periods of national concern.

Strategic region

Montenegro has frequently referenced the Algarve as a strategic region for the country, particularly on issues including water security, infrastructure and economic development.

During previous visits to the region, he defended long-term investment in water management projects, arguing that improving water infrastructure is essential for the Algarve’s future resilience.

His appearance on the Algarve coast has therefore drawn attention because it contrasts with his earlier assurances that this summer would be characterised by a limited period of rest and a continued hands-on role in government affairs.

Neither the Prime Minister’s office nor the Government has indicated that he would be taking a holiday in the region at the time of publication.