The Pied Piper Award celebrates festivals that not only implement meaningful sustainability strategies, but also communicate them effectively, inspiring audiences and industry peers alike. 

The award follows the recent renewal of Sonidos Líquidos’ three-star certification (out of four) from A Greener Future, reaffirming its status as one of Europe's most sustainable festivals. 

Through detailed environmental reporting, traceable, reusable cup systems, public sustainability metrics, and audience education initiatives, Sonidos Líquidos has positioned sustainability not as a backstage operation, but as a central narrative of the festival experience. 

“We believe sustainability must be visible, measurable and shared,” said Neftalí Acosta, founder and director of Sonidos Líquidos. “Communication creates awareness, and awareness creates change. If we want festivals to evolve, we must tell the full story —  transparently and honestly.” 

By receiving the Pied Piper Award, Sonidos Líquidos strengthens its international profile as a festival that leads not only in environmental performance, but also in responsible communication practices within the global music industry. 

Lanzarote itself plays a fundamental role in this vision. It has been recognised internationally as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the island has long embraced a model of development rooted in environmental protection, landscape conservation, and harmony between tourism and nature. This shared commitment to sustainability creates the perfect ecosystem for initiatives like Sonidos Líquidos to thrive, aligning the festival's values with Lanzarote's long-term strategy for responsible and regenerative tourism. A representative from SPEL - Turismo Lanzarote attended the awards ceremony in London to show their support and highlight the island's commitment to sustainable cultural events. 

Sonidos Líquidos is organised by Arenao Producciones with the support of the Cabildo de Lanzarote, Turismo de Islas Canarias, SPEL - Turismo Lanzarote (under its product brand Lanzarote Music Festivals), Centros de Arte, Cultura y Turismo, Ayuntamiento de Yaiza, the Regulatory Council of the D.O. Vinos de Lanzarote, and Lava Live Fest. Collaborating partners include Grupo Chacón, Relaxia Resorts, Sonora, Lumar Mantenimiento, and Tickety. 

For more information on Spain as a tourist destination, visit https://www.spain.info/en/

For all press enquiries contact Jessica Harvey Taylor on Jessica.harvey@tourspain.es or the Spanish Tourist Office’s PR agency LOTUS on spain@wearelotus.co.uk

Download images here

The Spanish and British travel industries were united in the second edition of ‘Spain Sustainability Day’ which took place both in person at The Conduit, London, on 18 April 2024 and via live streaming.  

Manuel Butler, director of the Spanish Tourist Office in London, officially opened the event, outlining the special relationship between the United Kingdom and Spain and the objective of creating dialogue between the two countries to transfer knowledge in the field of travel and sustainability. He outlined Spain’s tourism ambitions of season extension; with peak season visits dropping 1% year-on-year from 45% to 44%, and geographical diversification, with Spain’s Northern regions driving a larger tourism share in 2023 (up 23% year-on-year).

The dual language conference, moderated by Richard Hammond, director of Green Traveller productions and sustainable travel writer, included speakers from across Spain and the UK’s travel and transportation industries with panel sessions on circular economy, biodiversity and accessibility.

The event was sponsored by Visit Benidorm, part of the Region of Valencia, and the Balearic Island of Mallorca. Leire Bilbao, director of Visit Benidorm outlined the city’s 18% reduction in water-usage over the last 25 years, despite a 40% population growth, whilst Susana Sciacovelli, director of tourism (demand and hospitality) at Mallorca Council showcased the island’s responsible tourism pledge and roadmap towards transformation.

Circular Economy

The first panel featured Gabriel Llobera Ramis, marketing and communications manager at Garden Hotels, Nadine Pinto, global sustainability manager at The Travel Corporation (TTC), Carol Rose, head of sustainability at ABTA, and Coralía Pino, head of Sustainability at ITH (Instituto Tecnológico Hotelero).

The session stressed how now is the time to adjust our mindsets and employ disruptive thinking. Carol Rose reiterated the need to keep products in the industry for longer and touched on the impact of the hotel industry contributing not just to food and energy waste but also to textile landfill which accounts for a total of 92 million tonnes of waste per year.

Coralia Pino discussed Spain’s initiatives within the hotel industry outlining how the 2008 crisis forced hotels to look at energy efficiencies. She reminded delegates that food and energy expenditure are the second and third largest cost areas of all hotel operations, therefore emphasising how circular economy is vital, both for business and the environment. Likewise, Nadine Pinto discussed the impact of hotel merchandise and making bolder choices around in-room amenities.

Gabriel Llobera Ramis from the Balearic-based Garden Hotels showcased the group’s pioneering organic waste management and compost production, as well as the need for public policy with the Balearic Island archipelago recently initiating its ‘law of circularity’ for all hotels across the islands.

Biodiversity - impacts and Interventions

The second panel featured Terry Brown, destinations programme manager at The Travel Foundation, Dylan Walker, wildlife tourism expert at Wildlife Heritage Areas, Blanca Pérez Sauquillo, SG marketing at Turespaña, José Marí Olano, Councillor for large projects, Valencia Green Capital and Zina Bencheikh, managing director at Intrepid

The panel discussed biodiversity in tourism and how tourism is critical in terms of connectivity and education. The emphasis was on community in wildlife tourism and creating respectful bonds between wildlife and visitors with valuable initiatives, such as MEET (Mediterranean Experience of EcoTourism), creating a network of protected areas that are collaborating to engage communities locally in nature conservation.

Blanca Perez Sauquillo discussed the need to also educate the conscious consumer with digestible and effective messaging, while Zina Bencheikh, Managing Director of Intrepid said “it’s about doing the right thing and educating our customers.  They don’t always know the right choice until we offer it.”

From a more urban context, José Mari Olano discussed Valencia’s status as Green Capital 2024 and how cities can adapt their tourism proposition and urban planning to benefit both residents and visitors.

Accessibility & Inclusivity

The third and final panel was moderated by Meera Dattani, senior editor at Adventure.com and travel and culture writer and included Angus Drummond, CEO at Limitless Travel, Alberto Gutiérrez Alberca, Valladolid traffic and mobility executive, Miguel Carrasco, director of tourism at Impulsa Igualdad and Susan Deer, director of industry relations at ABTA.

The session started with an inspiring Spanish welcome from Spain’s ‘Spain for All’ ambassador and special guest, Ade Adepitan, who has lived, worked and travelled throughout Spain. 

Quoting the World Health Organisation figures, Adepitan highlighted how 1.3 billion people worldwide (or 16% of the global population) have some kind of disability. He said, “whilst not all of these people want or have the means to travel to Spain, even if we’re only talking about a small percentage, this is still a vast number of people that should be given the opportunity to enjoy what millions of non-disabled people enjoy every year, the beauty of taking a holiday.”

Angus Drummond, CEO of Limitless Travel, talked eloquently about his own personal travel experiences which inspired him to subsequently set up Limitless Travel. He said, “ultimately people with disabilities are the same as other consumers, whilst yes, they may need an adapted bathroom, they also want a great travel experience, a great bar and essentially the same as every other customer.”

Alberto Guitierrez from Valladolid talked about the progress being made within urban transportation, and the need for digital accessibility, whilst both Miguel Carrasco from Impulsa Igualdad and Tur4All, and Susan Deer, head of Industry Relations at ABTA stressed the importance of information, transparency, and training.

Keynotes

Keynote speeches were delivered by Nejc Jus, Director of Research at the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and Charlie Cotton, Founder of Ecollective Carbon

Nejc Jus showcased the WTTC’s latest tourism data with the 2023 global indicators putting the tourism sector’s worth at 9.9 trillion US dollars and 1.63 trillion visitor-spend. Forecasting ahead over the next ten years, the WTTC expects tourism to represent 11.4% of the global economy and 12.2% of all jobs. The data also looked at environmental and social factors from across 185 countries indicating that in 2019 when tourism was at its peak, the tourism sector contributed 8.1% to Greenhouse Gas emissions with transport accounting for the largest part of these emissions.  

The final keynote hosted by Charlie Cotton from Ecollective started with the carbon impact of tequila, beer and wine and looked at reduction through design, taking into consideration our transport, food and hotel choices. His motto ‘progress over perfection’ was an important takeaway as well as his recommendation is to “get obsessed with your number”.

Manuel Butler, director of the Spanish Tourist Office (UK) says:

“Thank you to everyone who has played a part in this important event. We were delighted to touch on so many important topics within our sector and hear from so many experts in the field. It really is a fantastic opportunity to share important learnings from across the sector with a specific focus on these two major travel destinations”

The afternoon conference was followed by Spain’s Media Awards opened by the Spanish Ambassador and recogising the best travel content by UK writers showcasing themes which correspond to Spain’s sustainable tourism pillars.  

Prior to the media awards, a ‘Special Recognition Award’ was presented by Lyn Hughes, founding editor of Wanderlust Magazine to Luis Gallego Martín, CEO of International Airlines Group (IAG), for his part in creating the roadmap to becoming the first global airline group to commit to becoming net zero by 2050 and the first European airline group to set the target of 10% Sustainable Aviation Fuel by 2030. Further details and a full list of winners and runners-up are available here.

The Spanish Tourist Office (UK) has confirmed the shortlist for Spain’s Sustainable Media Awards 2024.

The awards will be held at The Conduit (6 Langley St, London WC 2H 9JA) in Covent Garden on Wednesday 17 April 2024, following Spain’s Sustainability Day which features important discussion and debate on key issues relating to the travel industry and sustainability.

The awards will celebrate the best travel content about Spain by UK writers showcasing themes which correspond to Spain’s sustainable tourism pillars such as seasonal or geographic diversification, forming a connection with local people and cultures, visiting lesser visited areas and taking part in low-impact activities such as cycling and walking, as well a travelling by train and other forms of public transport.

The judges of Spain’s Sustainable Awards are:
 

• Carol Rose, Head of Sustainability at ABTA 
• Thomas Power, CEO of Pura Aventura 
• Richard Hammond, Founder of Green Traveller
• Zina Bencheikh, Managing Director of Intrepid Travel
• Manuel Butler, Director of The Spanish Tourist Office in the UK

The shortlists for each category in Spain’s Sustainable Media Awards 2024 are as follows:

Consumer National Newspaper Sustainable Tourism Feature of the Year (print) 

Annie Bennett – The Spanish region of Asturias has it all (and just got easier to reach) (The Telegraph)

Chris Haslam - I made the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela by rail. This is why (The Times)

Marti Buckley - Hidden Spain: Tiny wine regions (Decanter)

Sarah Gordon - The exhilarating road trip around Spain’s most underrated region (The Times)

Consumer Magazine Sustainable Tourism Feature of the Year (print) 

Eddi Fiegel - Written in Stone (Wanderlust)

Ross Clarke - Myths, monoliths and markets: JRNY Magazine (JRNY Magazine)

Ross Clarke - A cup of Canary: P&O Moments magazine (P&O Moments Magazine)

Stephen Phelan - Hike the Highlands (National Geographic Traveller)

Trade Tourism Feature of the Year (Print/Online)

Charlotte Cullinan - How an Iberostar Majorca fam showcased the impact of sustainability (TTG)

Robin Murray - An e-bike tour shows the Spanish city’s less-visited natural side, finds Robin Murray (Travel Weekly)

Online Consumer Sustainable Tourism Feature of the Year

Emma-Louise Pritchard - I chose a 33-hour ferry over a 2-hour flight to Spain for a slow trip all about nature (Country Living)

Helen Ochyra - There is a secret side to Tenerife that most visitors are blissfully unaware of (The Telegraph)

Isabella Noble - How Spanish islands like Ibiza and Mallorca aim to become a model of sustainable tourism (Lonely Planet)

Meera Dattani - What a slow trip to northern Spain really looks like (Wanderlust)

Content from a Content Creator

Danielle Leigh - Teruel, Spain – Discovering The Forgotten Kingdom Of Aragon (Travelling Jezebel)

Joanna Nemes - Everything You Need to Know About Visiting the Cordoba Patio Festival – Fiesta de Los Patios (Andalucia in My Pocket)

Naomi Spaan - Electric Road Trip Basque Country (Probe Around the Globe)

Simon Parker - The Guide to Cycling in Mallorca: Exploring Beaches, Coves, and Mountains | Times Travel (Times YouTube)

Manuel Butler, director of the Spanish Tourist Office says:

“Following the success of the inaugural Sustainability Awards last year, we are delighted to welcome back UK media to celebrate this year’s impressive entries showcasing important sustainability initiatives in Spain. Sustainable travel is at the heart of our strategy here at the Spanish Tourist Office and we are impressed by the level and quality of the submissions addressing key responsible tourism topics”.

The awards ceremony will also feature one special award, presented by Wanderlust Magazine.

The island of Gran Canaria, one of the Canary Islands, has been certified as a Biosphere Sustainable destination as of 2024, following three years of demonstrating its proven commitment to improving its sustainability practices.  

The prestigious Biosphere certification, part of the Responsible Tourism Institute (RTI), is awarded to destinations with verifiably sustainable practices being carried out correctly. The certification guarantees that the destination is complying with the commitments it has made to sustainability and conservation. Biosphere certification not only addresses a destination’s environmental and economic commitments, but also its commitment to socio-economic sustainability, making the accreditation a holistic indicator of a destination’s dedication to being as sustainable as possible. 

Since December 2021, Gran Canaria has been working to demonstrate its commitment to becoming a more sustainable destination, aligning itself with three pillars of sustainability: socioeconomic, environmental and territorial. Three years on, in December 2023, Gran Canaria passed an audit, which examined the island’s work against the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals and 169 goals of the United Nations Agenda 2030. Gran Canaria was one of the top 15 European destinations with the most accommodations with sustainability certifications. At least 38 companies on Gran Canaria are certified for their sustainable practices, with many more in the process of obtaining certification. 

ON 25 January 2024 at FITUR in Madrid (one of the world’s leading travel trade shows), the Secretary General of RTI awarded the Biosphere distinction to the president of the Cabildo of Gran Canaria, Antonio Morales, and the councilor of Tourism of Gran Canaria, Carlos Álamo. 

Gran Canaria is characterised by its distinctive volcanic landscape and for its exceptional biodiversity, which is most densely concentrated at the Gran Canaria Biosphere Reserve, alongside being the home of the UNESCO-listed cultural site of Risco Caido and the Sacred Mountains of Gran Canaria, where there has been found evidence of pre-Hispanic settlements.  

 For more information on Biosphere companies and travel in Gran Canaria, visit here. 

 For more information on visiting Gran Canaria, visit here. 

On 19 October 2023, World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) announced its list of Best Tourism Villages 2023. Villages are listed annually, and those who are selected have proven their use of tourism to promote local development, their integration of sustainable tourism practices, and their accredited cultural and natural assets.

Villages are selected and evaluated under the below key areas:

1. Cultural and Natural Resources
2. Promotion and Conservation of Cultural Resources
3. Economic Sustainability
4. Social Sustainability
5. Environmental Sustainability
6. Tourism Development and Value Chain Integration
7. Governance and Prioritization of Tourism
8. Infrastructure and Connectivity
9. Health, Safety, and Security

Three villages from Spain were included on this year’s list, each celebrated for their exceptional and unique cultural heritages and their sustainable approach to local tourism: Cantavieja, Oñati and Sigüenza.

Cantavieja:

This extraordinary Aragonese village, the historic capital of Alto Maestrazgo (a Medieval region), is situated high up on a steep rocky outcrop and is full to the brim with monuments from the Medieval and Aragonese periods and beyond. Declared a historical-artistic site since 1981, Cantavieja’s historic quarter is designated with a Property of Cultural Interest title, and with good reason: the town is a treasure trove of fascinating buildings, including historic hermitages, the ruins of a castle destroyed during the I Carlist War, the Levantine-Gothic church of San Miguel and the old Baroque hospital of San Roque.

Travellers to Cantaviejo are able to immerse themselves in local culture and support the local community by staying in one of the many rural accommodations, including La Tarayuela, Casa Vidal, Casa Sara and 40 de Mayo. By day, visitors can hike or mountain bike in the surrounding countryside, spotting wildlife and taking in panoramic vistas of the Aragonese countryside and, by night, guests can enjoy a traditional local meal at one of the town’s many family-run restaurants.

Oñati:

Located in the Basque Country of northern Spain, Oñati is surrounded by lush countryside and mountains and dates back to the Medieval period. Its name in Basque references its scenic location, translating as “place with plenty of hills”. Historically a centre of learning and faith, Oñati is home to one of the oldest and most beautiful university buildings in Spain, alongside the more recent Sanctuary of Arantzazu, a key church in the region with works from artists such as Eduardo Chillida, Jorge Oteiza and Nestor Basterretxea. Amongst Oñati’s many extraordinary historical highlights include the 16^th-century monastery and hospice of Bidaurreta, the Renaissance university, and the Gothic church of San Miguel, with its Baroque tower.

Visitors to Oñati are warmly welcomed to share in the local culture, which thrives to this day. On the Medieval festival of Corpus Christi Day, processions and traditional dances take place throughout the city. Active travellers are able to take to the hills on foot or by bike to discover the many trails in the vicinity, and even to discover the Aizkorri-Aratz national park, which stands out for its majestic mountains, awe-inspiring wildlife and ancient churches and roads. Guests can stay in charming locally-owned hotels and hostels, each of which display the warm, rural hospitality for which the region is famed.

Sigüenza:

The ancient town of Sigüenza is located in the lesser-explored region of Castile-La Mancha and can trace its routes back to the Roman colony of Segontia. The town has been occupied under Roman, Visigothic, Moorish and Castilian rule and its architecture and culture plays vivid testimony to the tapestry of influences that make up this unique city. The town was declared a Historic-Artistic site in 1965, with highlights for visitors including the majestic Gothic cathedral (which possesses its very own El Greco painting), the castle with roots stretching all the way back to the fifth century AD, and the 12^th-century church of St James. The town can also boast a Medieval university, the University of Sigüenza, and a variety of historic monasteries, churches and religious buildings.

After visiting the town’s cultural and architectural gems, visitors can explore the impressive landscape that surrounds Sigüenza, with multiple options for excursions, hiking and cycling. Travellers can dine in one of the many restaurants situated in historical buildings throughout Sigüenza, and support the development of the local tourism economy by staying overnight in one of the town’s various ‘casas rurales’.

The awards were announced at a ceremony at The Conduit, London on Wednesday 26 April 2023, following Spain’s first ‘Sustainability Summit’ which featured important discussion and debate on key issues relating to the travel industry and sustainability. 

The awards recognise the best travel content by UK writers showcasing themes which correspond to Spain’s sustainable tourism pillars such as seasonal or geographic diversification, forming a connection with local people and cultures, visiting lesser visited areas and taking part in low-impact activities such as cycling and walking, as well a travelling by train and other forms of public transport.

Prior to the media awards, Wanderlust Magazine presented a special ‘Spain Sustainability Champion Award’ to Gabriel Escarrer, Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Meliá Hotels International, for being a pioneer and driver of sustainable tourism not only within Spain, but globally; working to inspire and innovate across the hospitality industry to minimise its environmental impact and generate a global net positive impact.

The winners and runner-up for each category in Spain’s Sustainable Media Awards 2023 are as follows:

Sustainable Blog, Vlog or Podcast of the Year 

RUNNER-UP: Teresa Gomez - A 5-day Northern Spain itinerary trip (Brogan Abroad)

WINNER: Jodie Dewberry - How to enjoy sustainable tourism in Mallorca: 21 ecotourism experiences for every traveller to enjoy (Alajode)

Online Consumer Sustainable Tourism Feature of the Year 

RUNNER-UP: Vincent Crump - Beach-hopping along Menorca’s ancient walking trail (thetimes.co.uk)

WINNER: Manni Coe – A lesson in slow travel: walking the Camino de Santiago with my brother (The Guardian)

Consumer Magazine Sustainable Tourism Feature of the Year (print) 

RUNNER-UP: Chris Fitch - Bears in mind (Geographical Magazine)

WINNER: Jessica Vincent - Dine out in Galicia's Unofficial Restaurants (Food by National Geographic)

Consumer National Newspaper Sustainable Tourism Feature of the Year (print) 

RUNNER-UP: Xenia Taliotis - Spain's greenest Sierra (The Sunday Times)

WINNER: Chris Haslam - We're going on a bear hunt (The Sunday Times)

The judges of Spain’s Sustainable Awards were:

·       Carol Rose, Senior Sustainability Manager at ABTA

·       Thomas Power, CEO of Pura Aventura

·       Richard Hammond, Founder of Green Traveller

·       Manuel Butler, Director of The Spanish Tourist Office in the UK.

Manuel Butler, director of the Spanish Tourist Office says:

“Sustainable travel is at the heart of our strategy here at the Spanish Tourist Office and we are delighted to see the variety and quality of the pieces submitted for our inaugural media awards. I would like to congratulations everyone that made the shortlist and we thank the UK media for illustrating such important topics.” 

Spain's first Sustainable Media Awards. From left: Kate McWilliams, MD at LOTUS; Miguel Sanz, General Director Turespaña; Richard Hammond, founder of Green Traveller; Jessica Vincent,  travel writer; Liz Edwards, The Times; Xenia Taliotis, travel writer;  Thomas Power, CEO of Pura Aventura; Carol Rose, Senior Sustainability Manager at ABTA and Manuel Butler,  Director of the Spanish Tourist Office in the UK. 

Spain's first Sustainable Media Awards. From left: George Kipouros, CEO and editor in chief at  Wanderlust; Gabriel Escarrer,  CEO Meliá Hotels International; Miguel Sanz, General Director Turespaña and Manuel Butler,  Director of the Spanish Tourist Office in the UK.

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Thank you to our co-sponsors Visit Lanzarote and Menorca Tourist Board and our drinks partner Wine Shop Lanzarote. 

The city will run several events to celebrate this special announcement inviting visitors and residents to enjoy Sanlúcar’s delicious cuisine and unique wine. This programme seeks to showcase the region highlighting its high standards of quality-of-life thanks to its geographical location and climate, which provide a world-class sun and beach proposition for visitors. The city is rich with natural resources thanks to its proximity to the Guadalquivir River and the natural reserve of the Doñana National Park, which are both an inspiration for the city’s food culture and the legendary horse races that take place on a long stretch of beach in August.

Two elements of the food culture of Sanlúcar which have been highlighted in the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy celebrations are Sanlúcar king prawns and the region’s Manzanilla wine (straight from the heart of the Jerez Region). Sanlúcar’s king prawns are one of the most renowned gastronomic treasures of Andalucía and are farmed in the mouth of the Guadalquivir River adjacent to the Doñana National Park. This prawn carries an intense and rich flavour mainly thanks to the characteristics of the waters in which it grows. At present, these delicate prawns have an official quality brand called Langostino de Sanlúcar (King Prawn of Sanlúcar) which recognises the prawns caught on the coast of the lower Guadalquivir River. In 2020, 146,00 kilograms of these prawns were sold in the Sanlúcar de Barrameda fish market.

The celebrated counterpart, the Manzanilla wine, is a variety of fino sherry made around the port of Sanlúcar de Barrameda and is produced under the Spanish Denominación de Origen Protegida (DOP) of Manzanilla-Sanlúcar de Barrameda DOP since 1964. In Spanish, chamomile infusion is called "manzanilla", and thus this wine gets the name because of its flavour said to be reminiscent of such an infusion. The sherry is manufactured using the same methods as a fino and results in a very pale, dry wine.

Visitors looking to discover the city and its culinary scene during its year as Spanish Capital of Gastronomy should look out for its main gastronomic treasures:

• Tortillitas de camarones: This simple yet delicious tapa uses small fresh prawns to create fritters that are best served piping hot.
• Acedías and tapaculos: two of the city’s most famous fish best served fried and to be eaten by hand.
• Arroz con Pato: one of the lesser-known dishes that are popular among the locals of Sanlúcar. It is made from products sourced in the estuaries and areas bordering the river. The star is blue duck that is eaten in sauce or with rice hence the name ´Rice with Duck’.
• Guisos Marineros: seafood stews are especially famous in Sanlúcar de Barrameda. They come in many shapes and sizes made with cuttlefish, king prawns, monkish and many other delicacies caught just off the coast.
• Las Papas Aliñás: one of the most recognised potato dishes in Cádiz. Its main characteristic is that it is served "warm" and not cold like most potato salads. It is a type of potato salad that optimises simple, local ingredients.

The title of Spanish Capital of Gastronomy will be held by Sanlúcar de Barrameda from 01 January to 31 December. Huelva (2017), Leon (2018), Almeria (2019) and the region of Murcia (2020 and 2021) are among the Spanish cities that have previously held this annual recognition that celebrates food and tourism since its first edition in 2012.

The designation highlights Valencia for the quality of its Mediterranean design and marks the beginning of a series of cultural events aimed to consolidate this legacy of design focusing on six strategic hubs in which action can be taken via design: health and wellbeing; education; innovation and economy; heritage and identity; equality, inclusion and diversity; and sustainability.

The “unanimous” decision from the WDO was based upon “the precision, rigour and professionalism” of Valencia’s candidature. Xavi Calvo, strategic co-director of the candidacy for Valencia, believes that design will ‘accelerate the processes of social transformation’ and hopes to embrace the opportunity in the fullest. Valencia has provided a plan and itinerary for their proposed projects that includes everything from industrial designs to stunning architecture. It will be in line with the city’s cultural agenda so that the public can be as involved with the works as much as possible.

Every month there will be one of four types of events taking place based upon a new theme: exhibitions, congresses, workshops, and conferences. The content of these events will be centred around pressing topics such as climate change, Mediterranean design, gender equality in design, the history of design, industrial development, design and nature, among others. Projects include DNA Ceramics, the Design Map, two projects entitled Lo por venir and Trampolín for the occupational inclusion of people with disabilities as well as many others that enhance the value of Valencian design heritage.

Having been placed at number 49, Azurmendi in the Basque Country feels as if visitors are entering the Spanish chef Eneko Atxa’s home. Eneko provide a gastronomic experience in which the flavour and the beauty of each preparation are always linked to the landscape and the culture that shaped it. azurmendi.restaurant

At number 20, the 12-course tasting menu at Diverxo in Madrid takes diners through innovative, Asian-inspired dishes such as Iberian pork dumplings filled with Spanish broth and Korean gochujang with grilled cuttlefish and yellow pepper pil-pil. With twists and surprises at every turn, having a meal at Diverxo is like stepping inside Dabiz Muñoz’s limitless imagination. diverxo.com

The chef, Aitor Arregui, of Elkano in Getaria, placed at number 16, says his father claimed that to buy the best fish, one has to look the animal in the eyes and see that it still retains the brightness that means it is fresh. Today, his son and family run one of the most prestigious grills in the Basque Country and Spain. restauranteelkano.com

Mugaritz, San Sebastian, number 14 on the list, is exciting, avant garde and highly innovative. The creative dining experience developed by chef Andoni Luis Aduriz aims to open minds; his plates are designed to be more about providing a unique experience rather than being enjoyed by diners – a fine example of this is the gelatinous pork tendon that arrives mid-way through the experience. mugaritz.com

The contemporary techniques, daring combinations and the drive to surprise diners are among the features that Disfrutar, Barcelona, the restaurant placed at number five, embrace. Oriol Castro, Mateu Casañas and Eduard Xatruch create dishes such as panchino (a fluffy bun) stuffed with caviar and sour cream, or multi-spherical pesto with tender pistachios and eel, are designed to ‘please, surprise and excite’. disfrutarbarcelona.com

The top Spanish restaurant on the list, at number three overall, is Asador Etxebarri, found in the lush foothills of the Spanish Basque Country. It has been housed in the same rustic stone building since the 1990s. With sprawling views of mountains and grazing cattle visable from its terrace, where the welcome snacks are served, the restaurant is at one with history and nature. Victor Arguinzoniz is recognised with the Estrella Damm Chefs' Choice Award 2021. asadoretxebarri.com

Murcia is a corner of Spain with a deep-rooted gastronomical heritage thanks in large part to the outstanding produce on offer. Whether it is the broad range of high-quality fruit and vegetable from the fertile grounds of La Huerta de Murcia, fresh seafood from the Mar Menor or beautiful cuts of meat from inland farms. Murcia is among Europe’s largest producer of fruit and vegetables and this combined with agricultural and fishing techniques passed down through generations, influenced by the different cultures that occupied the lands, has given rise to a thriving modern food scene.

To drive local awareness and education on Murcia cuisine, activity includes a series of workshops for local chefs under the theme ‘La Huerta of 1001 Flavours’, ‘huerta’ referring to the fertile land where many of the region’s fruit and veg is grown. The programme also features ‘Gastrojueves’ (Food Thursdays), a series that will highlight healthy, Mediterranean cooking and will involve professional chefs running cookalongs allowing participants to cook Murcian specialities from the comfort of their own home (Spanish language only).

From May to December, Murcia will also be celebrating each week a different product emblematic of the region, many of which are protected by Denomination of Origin (D.O) recognising their specific qualities and characteristics. ‘Semanas de elaboraciones y de producto’ (Production and product weeks) will share typical recipes from the different municipalities of Murcia according to the produce being honoured that week.

More information on Murcia as the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy is available at www.murciacapitalgastronomica.es (Spanish language only). 

THE FOODIE’S POCKET GUIDE TO MURCIA

For foodie’s looking to get a taste of the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy’s cuisine later in the year when travel resumes, the Costa Cálida – Region of Murcia has provided some must-try Murcian specialties and memorable restaurants fit for any culinary pocket guide.

Murcian Specialties:

Caldero del Mar Menor – a rice stew traditionally made by fishermen from the catch that was too small to sell at market. Cooked in a cauldron style pan, hence the name caldero, the stew includes ñoras (small dried peppers popular in Murcia), garlic, tomatoes, saffron and of course an array of seafood from the Mar Menor.

Ensalada Murciana – a traditional salad made with tomato, Cieza olives, onion, tuna and hardboiled egg. It is as healthy as it is refreshing and delicious.

Pastel de Carne – a Medieval recipe with a slight Muslim twist to it. The strict recipe is held in high regard with standards and processes laid down in 1695. The pastry is a puff pastry which envelopes meat, boiled egg ad chorizo.

Paparajotes – this is a traditional Murcian dessert consisting of battered and fried lemon leaves. It has the indulgent texture of a doughnut but be sure not to eat the whole package. Remove the leaves and enjoy the crisp, lemony dough casing.

Restaurants worth a visit:

El Sordo, Valle de Ricote – A family-run restaurant that has been in business for just over a century, but with a modern appearance. It has an extensive traditional menu serving specialities from the mountains, alongside a first-rate wine list featuring almost every wine from Murcia. www.elsordo.es

El Rincón de Pepe, Murcia (City) – A la carte restaurant based on Mediterranean cuisine and specialising in traditional Murcian cooking with a modern twist. Founded in 1925, the Rincón de Pepe Restaurant remains a culinary institution with over 80 years of history.

www.melia.com/en/hotels/spain/murcia/tryp-murcia-rincon-de-pepe

Magoga, Cartagena – Magoga is a one Michelin star restaurant run with great passion and enthusiasm. The menu seeks to rediscover the roots of local dishes through the maximum use of locally sourced seasonal products from the Mar Menor and the area surrounding Cartagena.

www.restaurantemagoga.com

La Pequeña Taberna, Murcia (City) – Located in the capital of Murcia, La Pequeña Taberna has an impressive display of vegetables. Guests can dine on the terrace, at the tapas bar or in the dining rooms enjoying a contemporary yet classic style. The artichokes de la abuela are a Murcian specialty served here. www.lapequenataberna.com

Restaurante Cabaña Buenavista, Murcia (City) – The two Michelin star restaurant, Restaurante Cabaña Buenavista, offers fine dining in a verdant setting. The restaurant is housed in a large conical hut with an African style thatch roof. The bright dining room overlooks relaxing gardens creating the perfect space to enjoy meticulously prepared cuisine. Certainly worth the trip from the Murcian capital! www.restaurantelacabana.com

Gastro tours in Murcia:

Gastronomic workshop of Tortada Murciana – This three-hour workshop teaches guests, together with an experienced local pastry chef, about the history of the Tortada Murciana, pastry techniques, its ingredients, how it is made and assembled. Participants will also learn how to make each of the elements that make up this cake, which can then be used in one's own dishes and desserts to surprise guests. After making this delicious cake, guests will be invited to taste this delicious Murcian delicacy. Priced from €100 per person. www.travelinmurcia.es

Gastronomic Workshop: Preparation of Murcian Meatloaf  - Foodies can enjoy Murcian gastronomy learning how to make the traditional meatloaf in a culinary workshop. This cookery class will be taught by an artisan pastry chef who talks participants through every stage of creating a dish symbolic of the city’s gastronomy. The class finishes up with a tasting session and is offered in both English and Spanish and is priced from €100 per person. www.travelinmurcia.es

Cartagena de Tapas - A combination of visiting the city’s most important monuments, while trying its most typical tapas. The tour visits the Teatro Romano, Puerto de Cartagena, the Grand Casino and many other sites while sampling delicious tapas and drinks. The tour is done on foot and lasts approximately three hours. www.planout.es/en

Murcia de Tapas - This tapas trail will cover four stops which are carefully selected to allow guests to take in sites around the city including the Centro de Murcia and other sites from its medieval origins. Whilst touring the city, four pit stops are made to try local tapas dishes with wine or other drinks. The tour lasts approximately two and a half hours. www.planout.es/en