Rural Tourist Accommodation Classification

The Rural Tourist Accommodation Classification project, created and developed by the Casas Açorianas – Rural Tourism Association, aims to reward the accommodation units with the best services.

As such, the association has developed an internal norm to which members abide by, namely in what concerns:

- Quality of service;
- Development of environmental protection policies;
- Implementation of safety policies;
- Good hygiene practices.

The classification varies according to the degree of compliance with the norm. Hence, the accommodation units of all members have been evaluated in accordance with the following chart:

 

Gold

Excellent

Very Good

Good

 

In order to carry out a qualitative, conclusive and impartial evaluation of the accommodation units, they are audited annually. Given that this is a continuous process of improvement, the classification of a unit may change with upcoming audits, which are unannounced (surprise visits) to guaranty an effective compliance with the norm by the members on a day to day basis.

Types of Rural Tourism

Rural Tourism is characterised by the hospitality of the rural house owners, but there are several types of rural accommodation.
On this page you can learn more about the different types of rural tourism.

 

	Agritourism Agritourism involves welcoming farmers who are willing to share their way of life with city dwellers. Regardless of their agricultural activities, the farmers still offer quality services, valuing and respecting the environment and the local culture.
	Country Houses This type of tourism involves private houses or houses that, given their architecture and other features, are well inserted into the rustic environment that surrounds them.
	Country Hotels Country Hotels are located in rural areas and their architecture and interior equipment respect the characteristics of the region where they are located.
	Village Tourism As the name suggests, Village Tourism corresponds to tourism in villages with a recognised architectural importance.
	Self-catering Tourism Self-catering Tourism corresponds to tourism in manor-houses, palace houses or other houses with a recognised architectural importance.
	Rural Tourism Rural Tourism corresponds to tourism in rustic houses that feature typical characteristics of the rural environment in which they are located.