Mallorca

In the region of Calvià, Finca Galatzó Public Estate lies in the breath-taking UNESCO-listed Serra de Tramuntana. An oasis of protected mountain terrain, centuries-old olive groves and traditional dry-stone buildings dating back to Mallorca's Islamic period, here restored walking routes lie within a carefully preserved environment. To support responsible tourism, €2.1million from the Sustainable Tourism Tax has been dedicated to refurbishing the estate's Ses Porqueres building as an environmentally responsible mountain refuge. Offering 52 beds, shared facilities and multifunctional spaces for educational and cultural events, hikers and nature enthusiasts can rest easy in the tranquil countryside. The estate has also undergone a major restoration of endangered native flora and fauna, including the finca's first Mallorcan-breed calf named 'Torro', reinforcing Galatzó's role as an exemplary model for sustainable tourism.

ITS funds have also been invested into a new Mallorcan network of bicycle touring routes linking seven towns in the Raiguer region. The project connects Alaró, Binissalem, Consell, Inca, Lloseta, Marratxí and Santa Maria del Camí through a series of carefully planned cycling routes designed to be safe, clearly signposted, and accessible for active visitors, young and old. These routes will also link with existing trails in nearby areas, granting visitors access to even more countryside, vineyards, and traditional villages on two wheels. Designed to promote year-round travel, the initiative encourages Brits to soak up beautiful scenery, immerse in local culture, and experience a uniquely quieter inland landscape beyond the coastlines.

Formentera

In Formentera, funding from the Sustainable Tourism Tax has enabled the creation of a new water sports centre at Estany des Peix, bringing activities such as sailing, kayaking and diving together in one carefully managed location to help safeguard the area's vulnerable marine environment. As part of a broader strategy to attract visitors beyond the busy summer season and reduce pressure on local communities, the project is designed to lower environmental impact while providing better facilities for residents and travellers alike. Backed by just over €1 million from the sustainable tourism fund, the new centre features modern, accessible infrastructure built to meet increasing demand while remaining meticulously integrated into its environmentally sensitive surroundings. Set against a backdrop of crystal-clear turquoise waters and calm Mediterranean conditions, Formentera's unspoiled coastline, hidden coves, and rich marine life make it perfect for family exploration by boat, paddling along the shore, or diving to discover vibrant underwater ecosystems.

Ibiza

To incentivise travel outside of the summer months, Ibiza has launched a €2.2 million project to restore some of its most iconic heritage sites and turn them into attractions open all year round. Funded through ITS investment, the plan includes the restoration of the Pep Joan windmill, the Portinatx defence tower, and a new museum space at the s'Olivera archaeological site, where remains from the Punic and Roman periods can be explored. By bringing these historic places back to life and creating new interpretation centres, the island is giving its visitors more opportunities to experience Ibiza's rich culture both beyond its infamous beaches and at a more relaxed pace. Whether exploring restored landmarks or stepping into local exhibitions, travellers are invited to discover a different side of the White Isle, where history, nature, and everyday island life blend together to offer a deeper and more rewarding travel experience.

Menorca

Across Menorca, a series of exciting heritage and landscape restoration projects are being brought to life through the Sustainable Tourism Tax initiative. In Mahón, the Rambla defence tower, a protected Spanish site of cultural interest and 18th-century British military structure, has been stabilised and restored so it can be safely preserved as an outdoor museum feature within the natural park landscape. In Ferreries, urgent conservation work has been completed on the Medieval Castle of Santa Àgueda, where a damaged section of the wall was rebuilt using original materials to prevent collapse and protect the remains of one of the island's most important Islamic-period fortifications. The programme also includes the public acquisition of Sa Marina de s'Ermita estate, a rural area of high ecological value which has been restored as a green space for community, educational, and environmental use. Together, these projects give travellers even more reasons to explore Menorca beyond its beaches, offering the chance to discover historic landmarks, protected landscapes, and cultural sites that can be enjoyed year-round while experiencing a more authentic and sustainable side of the island.

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

The programs, supported by European Next Generation funds, will introduce renewable energy systems, advanced water-saving technologies, and resource monitoring solutions. In the Canary Islands, €11.2 million will go toward cutting energy use and CO₂ emissions, while Catalonia’s €45 million plan focuses on ecological transition through efficient water management and sustainable upgrades in accommodations. Additionally, Valencia will invest €21 million in projects such as solar panel installations, and Asturias will dedicate €11.2 million to insulation improvements and energy optimisation.

These efforts underline Spain’s commitment to responsible tourism, ensuring its destinations remain competitive while protecting the country’s natural resources for future generations.

Ahead of travelling to Spain and its islands, visitors should check the requirements of the European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) which is gradually being implemented across the destination: 

https://travel-europe.europa.eu/ees  

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 

The tourism model used by Seville's Smart Tourism Office is included in the European body's mission of '100 smart and climate-neutral cities by 2030'.

Seville is working on urban planning and digitalization plans as well as promoting sustainable tourism through ambitious projects such as a scheme that will measure the flow of tourists in the most visited areas of the city. The system, currently being tested in the popular Barrio de Santa Cruz, will use thousands of data readings which will allow decisions to be made in real time to redirect tourist flows to other areas in orderto combat cases of overcrowding.

https://www.visitasevilla.es/en/official-webguide-seville

Green Spain has secured funding from the Spanish Government to become the largest ecotourism corridor in Europe. This initiative will make it possible to establish a network of agents within the regions, provide training to tourism companies as well as design and create experiences, products and services based on green and sustainable models. More than 10 associations and 250 tourism companies, located in the protected natural areas of Green Spain, will be able to participate in training courses and obtain ecotourism certifications. The funding will go towards promoting responsible tourism throughout the year 2023.

For more information, visit https://www.ingreenspain.es/en/home-en.html

Cultural heritage projects such as the construction of the new headquarters of the Balearic Islands’ symphonic orchestra in Palma as well as the restoration of the San Diego convent in Alayor, Menorca, which houses a new Menorcan Gastronomy Centre, have been completed this year. 

Formentera has also been able to construct a multi-disciplinary water sports centre, which aims to promote travelling sustainably and off-season travel.

The sustainable tourism tax is currently funding 108 active projects across the islands of Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera, with a total budget of 52,207,177 euros. These projects will aim to offset the impact of tourism. Other standout initiatives that are set to finish this year include the transformation of an eco-friendly mountain refuge for hikers and the improvement of bird observatories within the Nature Parks of s’Albufera (Mallorca),  S’Albufera d’Es Grau (Menorca), and Ses Salines (Mallorca).

Information on every project funded by the sustainable tourism tax can be found at Illessostenibles.travel

Sierra Espuña Nature Park and its surrounding area have launched six new sustainable tourism experiences. These have been designed with visitors of all different ages and physical conditions in mind, offering distinctive ways in which to enjoy the fresh air and direct contact with nature. 

The six ecotourism experiences will allow visitors to uncover the historic forest full of traditions, culture, and flavours. Itineraries with the following themes have been created: Adventure; Among Birds; On Wheels; Panoramic Moment; Flavour Route; and Paths. These provide something for everyone, whether it is taking in the breathtaking views of the park while paragliding or sampling local organic produce.

  www.murciaturistica.es

The #SlowTravelSpain campaign, will highlight sustainable forms of travel in Spain and its islands, recognising the importance of forming a connection with local people and cultures when travelling whilst also lessening harmful impact on communities and the environment. The campaign will focus on geographical diversification and aim to showcase low-impact activities and journeys that fit within the slow travel theme. 

Taking part in low impact activities, exploring quieter routes and travelling with seasonality in mind will provide visitors to Spain with a more authentic experience of the country. In the upcoming months Spain’s social channels will showcase different forms of slow travel through its regions, encouraging lovers of the country to explore its lesser-travelled paths.

Making the choice to slow travel through Spain could mean choosing to travel along the well-connected network of trains, a sustainable yet rewarding option, giving the opportunity to see the lush landscape pass by and discover parts of the country not reached by plane. Alternatively, it could mean participating in responsible activities; From cycling through the mountains of la Sierra Nevada and exploring the Pyrenees in the summer sunshine to hiking through one of the 16 National Parks and diving in the Biosphere Reserves along its coastline.

How you can get involved

In the upcoming months the Spanish Tourist Office will be monitoring the hashtag #SlowTravelSpain on its Facebook (Spain.info.gb) and Twitter (Spain_inUK) accounts to track the posts of people's slow travel experiences across Spain, and to award spot prizes to some of the most impressive entries. When posting photos and videos of low impact activities, quieter routes or other slow travel related topics in Spain, please use the hashtag #SlowTravelSpain to share your content.

How brands, bloggers and influencers can get involved

The Spanish Tourist Office is also looking for brands, bloggers and influencers who have recently visited or are planning a trip to Spain and would like to get involved with this campaign. The aim of the campaign is promote slow travel experiences in Spain and engage current followers with the sustainable and responsible travel options in Spain. The campaign would also seek to create new shareable content across multiple digital channels (blogs, YouTube) to be shared on Spain’s channels. To register your interest in receiving support from the Tourist Office for your content please complete the following registration form.

Spain’s tourism strategy looks to address the challenges of the climate crisis, endangered biodiversity and sustainable consumption and production. Social sustainability has been outlined as a key focus helping to drive both environmental and economic ambitions. Many of Spain’s regions and cities are also showcasing their commitment with a range of initiatives:

MAINLAND SPAIN

BENIDORM ADDS 134KM OF BIKE LANES AND IMPROVES CITY’S WATER EFFICIENCY
Benidorm continues to work towards an even more efficient model of sustainability for the city. By the end of 2021, the city aims to have added 134km of bike lanes and more than 9 km of pedestrianized areas, promoting public transport and the rental of electric bicycles, among other goals. Benidorm has also developed a more effective water management system, renovating, and expanding the drinking water treatment station to supply more of its population with high quality water. This will mean that the city’s water consumption, in comparison with figures from 25 years ago, will be reduced by 18%; a significant figure considering that the population, including tourists with overnight stays, has increased by 44% since that time. It aims to lay the foundations for the transformation of Spanish tourism whilst creating a sustainable growth model that allows it to maintain its position as a leader in global tourism. www.visitbenidorm.es

VALENCIA CALCULATES CARBPN AND WATER FOOTPRINT OF TOURISM ACTIVITY
Valencia is amongst the first cities in the world to acknowledge, verify and certify the carbon and water footprint of the tourism activity in the city. Global Omnium and Visit València organised a study to measure 10 different sources of greenhouse gas emissions and how they then impact the environment. This included transportation, restaurants, activities related to tourism and water management among others. At the beginning of 2021, Valencia committed to a sustainable tourism strategy for the city in which it declares that it will achieve carbon-neutral tourism activity by 2025. This will involve Valencia converting to using renewable energies, having only electric powered transport and creating more green spaces to absorb CO₂ emissions. They have also set out to develop proximity labelling which will make tourists more aware of the impact that the produce they are buying has in terms of sustainability, safety and health.https://www.visitvalencia.com/en/news-room/valencia-becomes-first-city-world-verify-and-certify-carbon-footprint-its-tourist

CAMPO DE MONTIEL JOINS EUROPEAN REWILDING NETWORK
Campo de Montiel is a region in central Spain that is made up of a variety of land types and vegetation. The area is home to iconic species such as the Iberian imperial eagle, the Iberian lynx, Montagu’s harrier and the great bustard.
Due to many threats from development and urbanisation, hunting, and mining projects, the area has joined forces with the International Foundation for Ecosystem Restoration (FIRE), a Spanish NGO on a rewilding initiative. The goal is to increase wildlife populations and create new opportunities for the residents of the area. The NGO will be supporting reforestation, creating opportunities for charities and businesses in the region and supporting wildlife rehabilitation through nature-friendly agricultural practices. https://rewildingeurope.com/news/spanish-landscape-scale-rewilding-initiative-joins-european-rewilding-network/

EXTREMADURA PROMOTES UNESCO ENVIRONMENTAL CORRIDOR
Extremadura is home to some of the most diverse and best-preserved nature in southern Europe, with more than 50 protected areas. Extremadura has recently promoted the creation of the UNESCO Environmental Corridor, made up of three Biosphere Reserves (Monfragüe, Tajo Internacional and La Siberia) and the Villuercas-Ibores-Jara Geopark. The area unites landscapes and habitats and ensures that a high level of biodiversity is maintained. The UNESCO Environmental Corridor is an ideal way of reconnecting with nature, observing birds during the day and stars at night, practicing ecotourism and geological tourism, savouring authentic gastronomy and discovering its abundant historical heritage, including the World Heritage site, the Royal Monastery of Guadalupe, and the second most important pilgrimage site in Spain. https://www.turismoextremadura.com/en

LAUNCH OF EXTREMADURA GOURMET WITH THREE NEW SUSTAINABLE GASTRONOMY ROUTES
Extremadura Gourmet is an initiative in which public institutions, local producers and tourism companies collaborate to promote the iconic gastronomy of Extremadura in a sustainable way, as well as helping to preserve local customs and traditions. This cooperation has led to the creation of three sustainable gastronomy routes that offer dozens of experiences, such as guided tours, tastings, and master classes to try a variety of locally sourced produce. For example, the Extremadura Cheese Route is a collaboration of more than 110 companies, from livestock farms and cheese factories to accommodation suppliers, restaurants and shops. The new gastronomy route of one of the most iconic products of Spain, Iberian acorn-fed ham, features more than 80 local companies whilst the Extremadura Oil Route, features nearly twenty oil mills as well as restaurants, accommodation suppliers and museums. The tours are led by local experts that will explain everything needed to know whilst guests enjoy the gastronomy of Extremadura. https://www.turismoextremadura.com/en

21 SPANISH RESTAURANTS AWARDED MICHELIN GREEN STAR
Spain is already well established as a visitor destination for its excellent gastronomy but now 21 restaurants in Spain have been awarded a MICHELIN green star as part of the 2021 guide, thanks to the sustainable efforts being made within this sector. This title recognises restaurants and chefs that are at the forefront of their industry and are making an outstanding effort to make their practices sustainable, advocating for a better world.
Ethical and environmental standards are made top priorities when creating their dishes and they work closely with farmers and fishermen to source local produce. They often use innovative methods to assure that plastics and non-recyclable materials are removed from their supply chains and make environmental and ethical commitments to assure that they contribute to local or national charitable and educational projects. Guide.michelin.com

THE SPANISH ISLANDS

BALEARIC ISLANDS SUSTAINABLE TOURISM TAX
One of the most important measures adopted by the Balearic Islands to support sustainability has been the levying of a tax for overnight tourist stays. This ‘sustainable tourism tax’ has been charged to guests overnighting in tourism establishments since July 2016 with funds being directed towards sustainable tourism initiatives. The purpose of the tax is to mitigate tourism’s negative impact and to redistribute some of its economic benefits across the whole of society with six key funding pillars which include: the environment, sustainable tourism, historic heritage, scientific research, training and employment and social housing (which includes the acquisition and rehabilitation of homes for social housing with specific energy sustainability criteria). Since 2016, over €261 million has been raised and invested into 165 projects. The website has been set up to provide residents and visitors with details of how the funds are distributed and the progress of specific projects. http://www.illessostenibles.travel/en/home-en

PALMA DEVELOPS APP TO CONTROL TOURISM FLOW DURING PEAK SEASONS
The city of Palma in Mallorca has developed an app to successfully control the tourism flow of visitors during peak periods. The app was originally used to manage the flow of cruise passengers around the city and links to heat sensors that monitor the amount of human activity in specific tourism zones. During the pandemic, this was adapted to control the capacity on Palma’s surrounding beaches. In real time, the app displayed which beaches were crowded so that visitors and residents could make informed decisions and choose another option. The app was available for visitors via android and IOS and called “SafeBeaches”. In 2022 and beyond, the Palma tourism authorities look to develop this concept further, incorporating additional AI and data to monitor and successfully manage tourism flow in the city. This technology forms part of a wider tourism strategy which promotes geographical and seasonal diversification. https://www.visitpalma.com/en/

FORMENTERA DEVELOPS UNDERWATER CARTOGRAPHY TO PROTECT MARINE BIOLOGY
The smallest of the Balearic Islands, Formentera, is one of the Mediterranean’s best kept secrets. The clarity of Formentera’s turquoise waters is thanks to a high concentration of Neptune seagrass, Posidonia Oceanica, which is found growing around the Balearic Islands and believed to be one of the most important sources of oxygen in these coastal waters, creating a unique marine biodiversity. So much so that in 1999, the Posidonia was recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage site.
In 2017, a SavePosidonia initiative was launched to raise awareness of the value of the Posidonia meadows. Subsequently, the island launched a campaign to sponsor 1m2 of Posidonia for €1 which to date has protected over 250,000 m2 of the seagrass.
 In 2021 an underwater cartography of the Posidonia Oceanica was initiated. Once completed, the island plans to launch a new app, providing details of permitted anchoring areas (and indicating no-anchorage zones for boating vessels to prevent damage). Projects – Formentera (saveposidoniaproject.org)

THE MARINE AREA BETWEEN LA GOMERA AND TENERIFE NAMED EUROPE’S FIRST WHALE HERITAGE SITE.
The Whale Heritage Site between La Gomera and Tenerife, a designated Special Area of Conservation, has become a thriving whale watching destination given its unique population of pilot whales among a highly diverse variety of other whales and dolphin species. The area has received special recognition of the incredible work being done by a range of engaged stakeholders. The collective efforts of non-profit organisations, government departments, whale watching operators, the scientific community among many others, is an example of how collaboration and cooperation helps to make great strides towards the unified goal of protecting the whales, dolphins, and their habitats. https://whaleheritagesites.org/tenerife-la-gomera/

View the map in high resolution here

To help post-COVID visitors savour the best of Formentera, the island’s tourism board has launched a new slow food map, highlighting its traditional cuisine, local products and distinct flavours. The smallest of the Balearic Islands, Formentera, has long been recognised for its slow and laid-back way of life. Thanks to a great variety of fresh seafood, organic produce and sustainable agriculture being deeply rooted in the island’s traditions, Formentera has also obtained the ‘Arca del gusto’ (translated as ‘Ark of Taste’) status, granted by the International Slow Food Organisation.

The map locates a number of locally owned businesses across the island where visitors (and locals) will be able to buy organic produce, taste local flavours and learn more about slow food in Formentera. From fruit and vegetable markets to vineyards and producers of olive oil made of locally grown olives, the map highlights the great gastronomic heritage of the island and its reliance on local products which is a result of the relatively isolated location of the Pityusic islands.

WHAT TO TRY IN FORMENTERA

Cooked, grilled, stewed or fried; accompanied with rice or on its own, fish is one of the staple products on the island. Dried salted fish, known as Peix Sec, has in particular become a characteristic of Formentera’s cuisine. In a traditional way, handed down from the Phoenicians, the fish is first soaked in ‘sal morra’, a solution of water and salt, and then naturally dried in the sun and wind while hanging from juniper trees. Once dried, it is kept in glass jars and served on lettuce, with bell pepper, onion, and crispy bread, making it a simple, yet full of flavour dish.

Besides savoury dishes, such as a farmer’s salad (which features the Peix Sec), fried octopus (‘Frit de polp’) and a fish stew with potatoes (‘Bullit de Peix’), Formentera offers also a full range of local snacks and dessert. From ‘Flaó’ (cheesecake with a hint of mint) to ‘Les Orelletes’ (a sweet pastry made of aniseed) and ‘Greixonera’ (a bread pudding), there’s plenty of options to explore for visitors with a sweet tooth and savoury food lovers alike.

WHEN TO VISIT FORMENTERA

Although Formentera is known its slow vibe and relaxed way of life all year round, foodie lovers should consider visiting the island outside of the summer season. Every year*, during the first two weeks of May and October, Formentera holds its Gastronomic Weekends when the island’s best restaurants offer special menus at a set price. In addition to affordable prices, the event provides visitors to Formentera with a unique opportunity to taste traditional dishes with a modern twist.

Local restaurants, food markets and eateries across Formentera are adhering to COVID-19 safety protocols set out by the local government, ensuring that visitors remain out of harm’s way and able to enjoy the incredible culinary scene Formentera has to offer in 2021.

* Due to the evolving coronavirus situation, the 2021 events have not been confirmed yet.

For more information, please visit www.formentera.es