The Freguesia of Esmolfe was the stage, on October 11th, for the XXX Bravo de Esmolfe Apple Fair. Promoted by the Municipal Chamber of Penalva do Castelo, in partnership with the Parish Council of Esmolfe and with the support of FELBA, the initiative took place at the DOC Products Exhibition Center, reaffirming itself as a crucial event for the valorization of the region's endogenous products.
The day began with the celebration of the Eucharist in the Chapel of Santo Ildefonso, presided over by parish priest José António, highlighting the historical link between the community and its religious tradition. Subsequently, the Municipal Sports Office organized the 3rd edition of the Trail Maçã Bravo de Esmolfe, which attracted over six hundred participants across the Walk, Short Trail, and Long Trail, demonstrating the event's capacity to gather athletes, families, and visitors.
The fair featured entertainment by the Musical and Recreational Band of Penalva do Castelo, which paraded through the grounds, accompanying the traditional visit to the present Bravo de Esmolfe apple producers. The official session was attended by various entities, including Nuno Marques (President of the Parish Council of Esmolfe), Marco Almeida (Vice-President of CIM Viseu Dão Lafões), José Laires (President of the Municipal Chamber of Penalva do Castelo), and José Ribau Esteves (President of CCDR Centro).
Nuno Marques, President of the Parish Council of Esmolfe, opened the ceremony, emphasizing pride and unity, and thanking all involved. He stressed that the fair is “much more than a commercial celebration,” being “the mirror of our identity, our resilience, and the deep love we have for our land.” He addressed the challenges facing the agricultural sector, such as climate change, citing IPMA which recorded September as the hottest month in the last 95 years. Despite difficulties, he highlighted the value of the Bravo de Esmolfe Apple, recognized as the “fourth best in the world,” and pledged to continue supporting producers and promoting this product as an economic and cultural driver.
Marco Almeida, Vice-President of CIM Viseu Dão Lafões, emphasized the fair's importance in territorial valorization and the Bravo de Esmolfe Apple as “one of the unique products in the country.” He praised Penalva do Castelo as “one of the beacons of our community” and mentioned the tourism growth of CIMVDL, which was the fastest growing in the country in 2025 and 2026, attributing it to the valorization of local products and joint efforts. He also highlighted the role of the executive secretary of CIMVDL, Dr. Nuno Martins.
José Laires, President of the Municipal Chamber of Penalva do Castelo, recalled the officials who contributed to the fair's 30 years and praised the resilience of the producers. He addressed structural issues such as the apple's annual nature and the high costs of agricultural insurance, advocating for differentiated measures to protect identity products. He also highlighted the fair's growth, the impact of the Trail, the “Delícia de Maçã de Esmolfe” contest, and the role of associations and volunteers.
José Ribau Esteves, President of CCDR Centro, highlighted the new stage of regional development with CCDRs assuming integrated responsibilities. He stated that “virtue lies in the center, and in the center of the center is Penalva, is the Bravo de Esmolfe Apple,” advocating for the pooling of capacities among entities to strengthen regional competitiveness.
After the speeches, the stalls featuring crafts, Penalva do Castelo wine, cured meats, and IPSS were visited, accompanied by the Grupo de Concertinas do Dão. In the afternoon, awards were presented for the X Contest “Delícia de Maçã de Esmolfe,” won by Restaurante Fleur de Sel, followed by the Irmandade da Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Penalva do Castelo and Sweet Cakes Sanda F. Musical entertainment was provided by Tiago Maroto.
The Municipality of Penalva do Castelo reinforces, through this event, its territorial marketing strategy, promoting local products and stimulating the economic and tourist development of the county. The Bravo de Esmolfe Apple continues to be a symbol of regional identity and an attractive driver for the territory.
