SUSTAINABLE in

www.spain.info Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism Published by: © Turespaña CONTENTS Created by: Lionbridge Introduction 3 NIPO: 086-18-006-3 Sustainable destinations in Spain 5 FREE COPY

The content of this leaflet has been created with 100% sustainable experiences 22 the utmost care. However, if you find an error, How to be a sustainable traveller 29 please help us to improve by sending an email to [email protected] Sleep in sustainable Front Page: Garajonay National Park, La Gomera. accommodation 30 Back: Basque Country. Sustainable transport 31

2 INTRODUCTION Spain is a haven for lovers of sustain- Sunshine and beach destinations are a able tourism, a concept based on the unique opportunity to relax and enjoy responsible use of natural and cultural the seaside in idyllic natural surround- resources and which helps improve the ings. Come and spend a few unforget- social and economic conditions of the table days on one of the best coastlines local inhabitants. in Europe: as a result of the cleanliness Over a quarter of Spain's territory is of their waters and excellent environ- dedicated to the preservation of na- mental education programmes, over ture. Come and see for yourself! Feel 500 Spanish beaches have been au- the beauty and the magic of woods, thorised to fly the Blue Flag. rivers and mountains that you've never Come and enjoy our cultural attractions even dreamt of. Spain has been recog- in spectacular natural surroundings. nised by the UNESCO as the country with the most biosphere reserves in the world and the second highest num- ber of geoparks. As a result of its efforts in the preservation of this legacy, UNESCO has declared 44 World Heritage Sites bb PLAYA DE LA FRANCESA ISLA DE LA GRACIOSA, in Spain, 6 of them in natural areas.

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aa ATLANTIC ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK

Spain is top of the list in Europe, with Institute (RTI) and the Ecotourism 44 Protected Natural Areas which Club in Spain. These non-profit organ- comply with the European Charter isations are a guarantee that your visit for Sustainable Tourism (ECST), where will contribute to the preservation of protection of the natural environment . is essential. In addition to the imple- Get about responsibly and reduce your mentation of different environmental carbon footprint. Spain has a National management systems in accordance Railway Network (RENFE) which uses with UNE-EN ISO 14001, Ecolabel electrical energy generated to a great and EMAS requirements, many pub- extent from renewable sources. Walk, lic companies and administrations are take a bicycle or rent an electric vehi- promoting tourism which respects the cle. All these means of transport con- environment. tribute to preserving the environment. Throughout Spanish territory you'll find Explore Spain, a country full of history, a large number of experiences and des- culture and surprising natural surround- tinations acknowledged by pioneering ings. Come and breathe clean air and initiatives like the Responsible Tourism experience sustainability to the limit.

4 SUSTAINABLE DESTINATIONS IN SPAIN Some of the most fascinating places in Spain have adopted good practices which comply with the requirements for environmental, social and economic preserva- tion. These are destinations which make responsible use of natural and cultural resources, while supporting local craftsmen and products.

EL HIERRO CANARY ISLANDS

EL HIERRO (CANARY ISLANDS) The smallest of the Canary Islands is of El Hierro being declared a Biosphere a haven of sustainability thanks to the Reserve in 2000. Since then, visitors revolutionary implementation of renew- have been invited to discover the nat- able energies, innovative recycling pro- ural delights whilst respecting and pre- grammes and the promotion of electric serving the environment. vehicles. The flagship for their efforts to be- The extraordinary contrast between come a global benchmark is the Gorona the volcanic landscapes, lush forests del Viento wind/hydro-electric ­power and wonderful seabeds led to the island station, which is a combination of

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­energy generated by wind turbines and that produced by a waterfall between two artificial reservoirs. This innovative plant has already been able to satisfy the island's total demand for electricity during prolonged periods of time. Come and visit it, you'll be really surprised. Their zero waste policy, harvesting and producing "bio" products and a trans- port plan based on replacing fossil-­fuel vehicles with electric vehicles have made it a true pioneer. El Hierro is an true laboratory for clean energy and ecological awareness cam- paigns. This commitment to self-suf- ficiency and searching for innovative solutions is a part of the history of the island's inhabitants, who since time im- memorial have worshipped the Garoé tree, which collects water from the mists which frequently settle over the island. At the San Andrés Visitor Centre you can learn all about the phenome- non of horizontal rain and all the mys- teries surrounding this amazing place.

Do you like diving? You'll feel just like Jacques Cousteau in the Punta de La Restinga Marine Reserve, at the southeast end of the island. There you can discover a unique undersea landscape which is full of life resulting from its singular volcanic features and the social and ecological awareness of El Hierro's inhabitants and fishermen.

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PLAZA DE LA VIRGEN BLANCA VITORIA-GASTEIZ Photo: pabkov/123rf.com pabkov/123rf.com Photo:

VITORIA-GASTEIZ (ALAVA) The clean air and the abundance of green spaces in the capital of the Basque Country/Euskadi provide a good exam- ple for other cities. There is a magnifi- cent historical old town, officially -rec ognised as a Monumental Complex in 1997, which has preserved its medieval layout and is home to a great selection SALBURUA WETLANDS VITORIA-GASTEIZ of bars and restaurants. In 2012 it was declared the Green Capital of Europe as a result of 30 years promoting re- original visitor centre located in a unique spect for the environment and adopt- wooden and glass building which blends ing sustainable development policies. into the environment. Take a stroll through the Anillo Verde There is surprising public commitment or Green Ring and explore the natural to the environment and town planning beauty. The project managed to recov- has developed so that the whole pop- er and join up the parks around the ulation lives less than 300 metres from periphery of the city. This has resulted a green . in 79 km of urban pathways which are easily accessible from the city centre, be that on foot or by bike. In 2016, Vitoria was awarded the The results from this initiative are Biosphere Responsible Tourism self-evident in places like the Salburua Wetlands, a breeding ground for nu- certificate, which recognises it as merous species of birds. Learn about a sustainable tourist destination. the area's biodiversity in Ataria, a highly

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derful hiking routes. Climbing up to the peaks of the Santa Margarida and Croscat volcanoes, and walking through oak and beech forests are unforgettable experiences for any nature lover. There is a voluntary commitment by the individuals and companies responsible for protected natural areas to adopt the principles of sustainable tourism. Those places are so designated not only because of their extraordinary environmental value, but also because they provide excellent, sustainable ser- vices and facilities. The municipal districts in the area have aa CROSCAT created a brand name Sustainable Management of La and El LA GARROTXA (GIRONA) Collsacabra (CGS), which they use to recognise companies which take envi- ronmental preservation into account La Garrotxa has the honour of and promote ecological awareness. being the first in Spain to implement the European GIRONA Charter for Sustainable Tourism (ECST) and is the model for its application both in our country and in the rest of Europe.

In the interior of the () you'll find this unique place: a nature reserve full of volcanoes, cra- ters and basalt lava flows covered by dense vegetation. In the north, in the area called Alta Garrotxa, the landscape is steeper and more rugged. Delightful medieval towns like Olot are the access points to this surprising countryside which abounds with won-

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FAGEDA D’EN JORD NATURE RESERVE GIRONA SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN SPAIN

LA PALMA (CANARY ISLANDS) Atmospheric conditions on the island of This distinction means you can spend La Palma make it one of the best places whole nights observing the celestial in the world for watching the stars. vault like never before. Climb up to the El Roque de los Muchachos Observatory to enjoy an The absence of light incredible experience. As the sun goes pollution and the inherent down, a blanket of clouds surrounds the island below the mountain peaks climatic and atmospheric which gives you an amazing feeling of conditions led to its walking in the sky. declaration as the world's first Starlight Reserve.

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ROQUE DE LOS MUCHACHOS OBSERVATORY LA PALMA LA CALDERA DE TABURIENTE NATIONAL PARK LA PALMA

SUSTAINABLE DESTINATIONS IN SPAIN

LA CALDERA DE TABURIENTE NATIONAL PARK LA PALMA

The environmental characteristics on La Palma are unique. That is why it was recognised by the UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve.

More than a third of the island is made up of protected natural areas. Much of the landscape is dominated by shades of black and red, presided over by an enormous 8 kilometre glacial de- pression, the Caldera de Taburiente National Park. The ancient pine for- ests make for surprising trails on foot or on horseback. Look out to a horizon which looks like a different planet a huge sea of lava which reaches right to the seashore. This Canary Island treasure is part of Spain's Ecotourism Club, a pioneer- ing initiative providing travellers with ­experiences with an environmental commitment. LLwww.starsislandlapalma.es www.soyecoturista.com

11 SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN SPAIN Photo: Francisco Javier Gil Oreja/123rf.com Gil Javier Francisco Photo:

URDAIBAI BIOSPHERE In the heart of the Basque Country, RESERVE (VIZCAYA) bathed by the Cantabrian Sea, you'll

aa EUSKADI BIODIVERSITY CENTRE find this magnificent Biosphere Reserve, TORRE MADARIAGA, VIZCAYA consisting of the mouth of the Oka River.

This is a wetland with numerous eco- features like the Urdaibai Bird Centre systems which is home to species of (in the district of Gautegiz-Arteaga), animals and vegetation which are very where you'll find all the information important for the area's ecological bal- you could possibly need on the numer- ance, like the osprey, the spoonbill and ous bird species you'll be able to see. the bittern. Another interesting place to visit is the Make a tour of the reserve and get a Euskadi Biodiversity Centre, located closer look at the region's four basic in the Madariaga Tower. Apart from ecosystems, surrounded by fishing vil- learning all about the indigenous flora lages and the green Basque country- and fauna, you can also climb up to the side: Cantabrian oak forest, Atlantic lookout point and get a fantastic view prairies and woods, marshland and of the Isla de Izaro, the Playa de Laida open sea. The route has information panels along the way, through real- and the marshland. ly beautiful countryside, with amazing LLwww.turismourdaibai.com

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FORMENTERA () There is a secret treasure hidden un- If you come in October you can join in der the turquoise-blue waters around the Save Posidonia Project festival, a the Balearic Islands: the fields of po- meeting point for new projects to de- sidonia oceanica seagrass, declared a fend and promote sustainability and World Heritage Site by the UNESCO. respect for the environment which This indigenous Mediterranean plant includes sports competitions, musical (said to be the oldest living being on performances, yoga, photography, film, earth, around 100,000 years old) cov- workshops... ers 7,650 hectares around the Island of As dropping anchor here is severely re- . stricted, the best way of enjoying this Posidonia is responsible for the trans- incredible underwater forest is snor- parency and colour of the water, and kelling from one of the island's idyllic it is a key factor in oxygenating and beaches, like Ses Illetes and Llevant. maintaining the quality of the marine A truly unforgettable experience. ecosystem. In this habitat, in the and Formentera Ses Salines Nature Reserve, 400 species of plants and 1,000 species of marine animals feed and reproduce.

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FORMENTERA SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN SPAIN

DELTA DE L'EBRE NATURE RESERVE () The largest wetland in Catalonia harbours a wealth of natural features, as well as incredible landscapes and idyllic beaches. Take a walk through the park's rice fields at sunset, explore the maritime fluvial island of Buda by bicycle or take a kayak to discover the delights of such a special place as this.

aa DELTA DEL NATURE RESERVE TARRAGONA

The environmental wealth of the Ebro surroundings. The whole region is really Delta has led to its designation as a flat, so a bicycle is ideal. UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and in You can learn about their unique cul- 2009 it was awarded the European ture and traditions, like how they plant, Destination of Excellence prize (EDEN). weed and reap the rice in Deltebre, It is also a member of the ECST, which is a guarantee that its 320 square kilo- where they have revived the tradi- metres remain an ideal habitat for more tional way of cultivating one of the than 300 species of birds, including the prominent ingredients in the exquisite exotic flamingo and Audouin's gull. Mediterranean cuisine. Here you can also visit the Ecomuseum and learn You should visit the Balsa de la about the Ebro Delta ecosystem. Encanyissada, the largest lagoon in the Delta, and enjoy the magnificent natural LLwww.terresdelebre.travel

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SIERRA ESPUÑA (MURCIA) This sanctuary for active tourism is species like grey herons, little grebes, the largest forest mass in the Region mallards and stilts. of Murcia. This regional park complies One of the region's most unusual fea- with the ECST and is firmly committed tures are the snow wells, 16th centu- to sustainability, adopting all kinds of ry structures where snow was kept to initiatives to protect the lushest envi- then be used in the summer, an ancient ronment in southeast Spain. tradition which already took the sus- Ravines, streams and springs will ac- tainable use of natural resources into company you through this Special account. Protection Area for Birds (SPA) with ex- traordinary contrasts. Near to Alhama As far as local culture is concerned, pot- de Murcia you'll find the protected tery has always been an essential part landscape of Barranco de Gebas, a of the lives and customs of the villages semi-arid area that looks rather like surrounding the Sierra Espuña moun- the moon. There, the area around the tains. The purchase of local handicrafts Algeciras Reservoir is a nesting site for will help them endure into the future.

bb RAMBLA DE ALGECIRAS RESERVOIR MURCIA

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LANZAROTE (CANARY ISLANDS) The island of volcanoes is a unique as the Lanzarote and Chinijo Islands moonscape. It's covered with craters, Geopark and it is a member of Spain's ravines and valleys of solidified lava. Ecotourism Club. Over time a spectacular natural envi- The volcanic origin of the archipela- ronment has been created which has go becomes evident when you vis- been declared a Biosphere Reserve. it the ­Timanfaya National Park. From The natural treasures and tranquillity the natural lookout point of Montaña will make you feel like you're on anoth- Rajada the surrounding landscape is er planet. a blur of fire, ash and rock. The pure Lanzarote was the first destination in beauty of this red and jet black soil has the world to be declared a Biosphere remained unspoiled by human activity. Responsible Tourism Destination. The In the Nature Reserve of the Pool of unique geological heritage of this island Los Clicos there is an extraordinary led to its recognition by the ­UNESCO green lake over a volcanic crater.

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aa TIMANFAYA NATIONAL PARK LANZAROTE

Discover the relationship between the inhabitants and their unique natural environment and explore the footprint left by the architect César Manrique on the island and the significance of his ecological message. Most of his works are to be found in Lanzarote, in- cluding the renowned César Manrique Foundation. Discover the perfect har- mony between and the landscape, where respect for the environment is what is most important..

aa CHARCO DE LOS CLICOS LANZAROTE 17 SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN SPAIN

PROVINCE OF LEÓN With seven biosphere reserves, one of the highest concentrations in the world, the province of León leads by example in the preservation and protection of biodiversity. A good starting point for exploring the region is the little town of Caín, in the Valdeón Valley. This is the start of the iconic Cares Route, a fascinating trail through what is known as the "divine gorge" to Poncebos (). It is in the heart of the Picos de Europa National Park, one of the most beautiful natural surroundings in mainland Spain. The mountainous profile of the region defines an environment which is ideal for hiking through beech and oak for- ests, kayaking down rivers and gaz- ing at the Milky Way from up in the mountains. You're likely to come across chamois goats, golden eagles and ot- ters who inhabit natural havens like the Alto Bernesga, the Omaña and Luna Valleys, Babia, Laciana, los Ancares in León and Los Argüellos. There are really extraordinary geolog- ical formations like the Valporquero Caves, with magical stalactites and sta- lagmites, and trails ideal for walking or cycling like the Laciana Green Route, along what used to be the railway be- tween the towns of Caboalles de Arriba and Villablino. The unspoiled countryside, the abun- dant flora and fauna and local commit- ment to environmental preservation make this region an ideal destination VALPORQUERO CAVES for ecotourism. LEÓN

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A stronghold of unspoiled nature where you are invited to enjoy an environment which has remained unchanged over the centuries.

aa SOMIEDO NATURE RESERVE ASTURIAS SOMIEDO NATURE RESERVE (ASTURIAS) This beautiful part of Asturias features Spain's most significant plantigrade high peaks, lakes, forests, mountain mammal. This is an ideal place to book pastures and meadows and is an ideal a guided tour. You can follow the Bear habitat for species in danger of extinc- Route on foot or by bike as you cross tion like the brown bear, the wolf and mountains and gorges in Asturias the Cantabrian grouse. where you'll discover the natural wild See how the countryside changes with habitat of a protected species. the seasons and the important meas- In the area around Somiedo there is ures being taken now this Biosphere another protected area, the Muniellos Reserve complies with the ECST. Biosphere Reserve, a member of the This paradise for hikers has interesting Ecotourism Club and located in the features like the park's Visitor Centre, Narcea, Degaña e Ibias Nature Reserve. located in Pola de Somiedo, an educa- They show an exemplary commitment tional and leisure area displaying the to the environment, as can be seen region's natural and ethnographic re- in places where human beings live in sources. The Brown Bear Foundation harmony with the flora and fauna, like also has a Visitor Centre dedicated to the Muniellos Forest and the Hermo this important refuge for the north of beech forest.

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PYRENEES

SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN SPAIN

In Spain there are so many areas where nature and its preservation are a prominent feature that it is re- ally difficult to choose. Here are just a few of them, with different ecosys- tems and places of interest.

SIERRA NEVADA NATIONAL PARK

SIERRA NEVADA NATIONAL PARK SOBRARBE GEOPARK Between Granada and Almería, the In the heart of the Aragón Sierra Nevada National Park, also you'll find theSobrarbe Geopark, the a Biosphere Reserve, is an ideal en- only one in this mountain chain in vironment for enjoying ecotourism. the northeast of Spain. It has a rich If your hobby is photographing na- geological heritage. This can be seen ture, here you have high mountains in places like the frozen grotto of and desert like the Veleta and the Casteret, a cave with really beautiful Mulhacén, (two of the highest peaks ice formations. Apart from peaks and in Spain) and the Alboloduy ravine. a unique mountain landscape, the re- You'll also see Iberian mountain goats gion enjoys an extraordinary ecologi- which are an indigenous species. cal and cultural heritage. LLwww.ecoturismosierranevada.com LLwww.geoparquepirineos.com

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SUSTAINABLE DESTINATIONS IN SPAIN

GARAJONAY NATIONAL PARK Small in size but with so many VILLUERCAS‑IBORES-JARA GEOPARK ­attractions. That is how you'll find CÁCERES La Gomera, a Biosphere Reserve in the Canary Islands. It's like a garden VILLUERCAS‑IBORES-JARA with valleys full of palm trees, enor- GEOPARK mous ravines, a coastline ideal for div- In the Villuercas‑Ibores-Jara Geopark, ing and forests of an intense green. located in Cáceres (Extremadura), Explore the island on foot and visit the there's a mountain range where ero- Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO sion has left a unique geological lega- World Heritage Site. This wonderful- cy, with numerous trails through geo- ly preserved subtropical laurel forest logical sites like the La Villuerca cliffs is unique in the world and represents and the "Espejo de Falla" or fracture half the extension of this type of for- in the Cancho de las Narices. est in the whole archipelago. LLwww.geoparquevilluercas.es

SIERRA DE LA CULEBRA To find out all about the Iberian wolf and learn about the traditional way of life and customs which still ex- ist alongside those of today, you should visit the Sierra de la Culebra (Zamora). Here you'll find the highest concentration of wolves in Spain and

one of the highest in Europe, while GARAJONAY NATIONAL PARK there are also an important number LA GOMERA of deer and wild boars. In the town of Robledo (Puebla de Sanabria, Zamora) Other interesting features of this you'll find the Félix Rodríguez de la National Park are the great diversity Fuente - Castile and León Iberian of indigenous species (especially in- Wolf Centre, where a number of vertebrates) and spectacular geologi- these animals live in semi-freedom cal monuments like Los Roques. From and can be seen from observation the lookout point you can see over towers distributed around the area. the whole island.

21 SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN SPAIN Photo: Ernesto Jiménez Lucas/123rf.com Jiménez Ernesto Photo: aa LYNX BIRD WATCHING Take your binoculars and enjoy the 100% incredible variety of landscapes and birds. Spain is located right in an impor- SUSTAINABLE tant migratory corridor which count- less birds choose each year and come EXPERIENCES here to breed and to rest. You'd be Explore Spain's unspoiled nature, discover amazed how easy it is to observe birds its incomparable biological diversity and of prey and forest and aquatic birds in learn about the preservation initiatives almost any part of Spain, a haven for adopted to minimise the human footprint bird-watchers. on the environment. Learn all about our Some of the best areas are the Trasmiera­ most iconic and threatened wild animals, Ecopark, in Arnuero (), a true attend ecological festivals and sample the open-air . You can take a guid- local cuisine and products. ed tour through the Joyel marshlands,

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aa COLONY OF BLACK VULTURES IN MONFRAGÜE EXTREMADURA

on the migratory route for thousands plains reach their maximum splendour of birds like the spoonbill and the cur- in spring and in summer when seabirds lew. In the region there are still numer- come here to feed and breed. ous "tidal mills", a renewable energy Meanwhile, the Monfragüe Biosphere technology which was formerly used to Reserve is one of the natural gems of take advantage of tidal power. the province of Cáceres, a natural haven Located on 's Atlantic Coast, declared a Special Protection Area for the Doñana National Park is one of the Birds (SPA). Go up to the Roquedo de natural areas with the greatest biodiver- Peña Falcón, one of the lookout points sity in Europe. There are a wide variety overlooking the Tagus River, and watch of ecosystems to be explored on foot the largest bird of prey living in Europe, or on horseback: Mediterranean game the black vulture, as it glides through reserves, the arid landscapes of the the sky . At night, the blanket of stars mobile dunes and the natural wealth over the light-pollution free Monfragüe of the marshlands. These freshwater sky will leave you speechless.

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aa CABAÑEROS NATIONAL PARK TOLEDO

HIKING FOR YOU TO ENJOY AND LEARN Put on your walking boots and set out on one of the trails through Spain's natural treasures. These routes are ideal for promoting awareness of the need to protect places and environ- ments where we would otherwise end up losing their valuable biodiversity. There are countless possibilities, like the Understand and Preserve routes in , and the trails through the ­Sierra de Guadarrama (between and Segovia). Your guide will be a highly experienced biologist and en- vironmental expert who will explain all about the region’s flora and fauna.

GEOBOTANICAL ROUTES If you'd like to learn more about the relationship between vegetation and the natural environment, this experi- ence will help you understand places like the Tabladillo Valley (Segovia), the Cabañeros National Park (Toledo and Ciudad Real) and the area surround- ing Cuenca. On the way you'll discover karstic springs, Neolithic caves and me- dieval bridges on amazing routes taken by experts in .

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__ SIERRA DE GUADARRAMA NATIONAL PARK MADRID 100% SUSTAINABLE EXPERIENCES

VISIT THE NATIONAL PARKS ON FOOT, BY BICYCLE OR ON HORSEBACK

Discover Spain's natural treasures on horseback. Gallop across meadows and valleys, visit medieval towns...

Choose one of the organised bridle trails in our national parks and enjoy the freedom of riding on horseback. There are a large number of riding schools near some of the most beautiful and out-of-the-way corners of Spain. These regions can also be visited on hiking, bicycle and mountain bike routes, a great way of feeling in direct contact with nature.

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ECOTOURISM IN THE BALEARIC ISLANDS , , Ibiza, Formentera and the Cabrera archipelago have a broad network of natural areas and almost a quarter of the territory is part of the European Natura 2000 Network.

Explore wetlands, mountain areas, dune systems and little islands where you can enjoy numerous environment-friendly activities.

26 SIERRA DE TRAMUNTANA MALLORCA

100% SUSTAINABLE EXPERIENCES

aa MAHÓN CHEESE MENORCA

Culture and the preservation of traditional handicrafts are also an important part of ec- otourism. Explore the Mediterranean coun- tryside as you visit wine-cellars and oil mills, where wines and oils of the highest quality are produced, as well as ancient farm estates where they still manufacture delicious local honey, cold-meat products and honey. Photo: artesiawells/123rf.com Photo:

You'll find unique Balearic Island spe- The eight marine reserves permit the cies like the Balearic lizard and the effective management of fishing re- ferreret­ or indigenous toad which lives sources. There you can snorkel for fun in the torrents in the spectacular Sierra and explore the incredible seabeds, al- de Tramuntana (Mallorca). though you will first have to request authorisation on the following website: LLwww.caib.es/seucaib/es/tramites/ tramite/1139905

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EXPERIENCE SUSTAINABLE GASTRONOMY Seasonal green vegetables and fruit, Try agrotourism, a holiday which in- dried and dehydrated fruit, seeds, le- cludes agricultural and livestock ac- guminous vegetables... Local products tivities. You can take part in the daily play a leading role in the numerous farm work, help harvest the grapes in eco-markets which have appeared all a vineyard or learn how to make olive over Spain. Spain also features events oil. Activities like this are available in like BioCultura, a fair focusing on or- many types of accommodation, from ganic products and responsible con- hotels to hostels, houses, villas and sumption. There is also a wide - selec farm-schools for children all over Spain. tion of festivals relating to sustainable A good example are the agrotourism gastronomy, one of the most important estates in the Balearic Islands. being "Cómo como" (How I eat), which LLSearch for a suitable destination is held in and includes inter- and activity on: esting features like show-cooking, con- www.soyecoturista.com certs, workshops and conferences. www.biospheretourism.com

28 HOW TO BE A SUSTAINABLE TRAVELLER Here are ten tips for you to help make your holiday destination a better place.

``Plan your trip. Choose suppliers who provide good quality, and re- spect human rights and the envi- ronment. ``Make careful use of natural ­resources like water and energy. Always re-use the towels and only use the air-conditioning where absolutely necessary. ``Try to generate as little waste as possible, especially plastics. Use reusable canteens and bottles. Make a habit of using bags made of cloth. ``You can always recycle even when you're on holiday. Always dispose ``Do not acquire protected flora of waste in a suitable place. and fauna or products derived ``Make sure the only footprint you from these species. It's a crime leave in a natural area comes from and you'll be contributing to their your footwear. extinction. ``When visiting sensitive ecosys- ``On your visit, take pleasure in tems, like protected natural are- discovering the culture, customs, as, find out how this can be done cuisine and traditions of the local causing the lowest possible im- people. Respect them and get to pact. know them, they have so much to ``When buying presents and souve- tell you. nirs, looking for something which ``Try to go on foot or by bike when- expresses the local culture. You' ever possible. ll be helping the economy of the places you visit and promoting cultural diversity.

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Photo: Photo: Allenden/123rf.com Ian SLEEP IN SUSTAINABLE ACCOMMODATION

There is a broad selection of hotels and accommodation in Spain whose con- cern for their impact on the environ- ment is certified. These establishments usually have a sign at the entrance accrediting their environmental com- mitment. Ceres Ecotur, Q for quality, Ecolabel, Ecotourism Club and Green Globe are the most frequent and pres- tigious labels. Glamour and comfort are not necessari- ly incompatible with respect for the en- vironment. Glamping in Spain is a new reality which offers numerous differ- ent solutions and can be found all over Spain. This unique accommodation is usually located in extraordinary natural surroundings, and includes luxury facil- ities to make your stay ideal. You could sleep in a beautiful, tree-top cabin or a candle-lit Berber tent. These are just two of the numerous options you could try. Each Spanish region has its traditional accommodation. Enjoy being surround- ed by the sea and the mountains in a mansion in Asturias or a country house in Galicia. Relax surrounded by olive groves or the aroma of orange blos- som in an Andalusian country estate, in a farm-workers dwelling. Stay in a traditional dwelling in a farmhouse in Euskadi or , or a country house in Catalonia or . There they will be delighted to explain all about their local customs and you'll be invited to sample their craft products. 30

__ GLAMPING SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORT Increased social awareness has brought about new options in urban . Apart from public transport (bus, metro, tram and suburban railway) there are now alternative ways to get about cleanly and comfortably. Not only in the large provincial capitals, there are now many towns and cities which have created bike lanes and public bicycle hire suitable for touring EXPLORE SPAIN their historical town centres and main BY TRAIN tourist resorts. Some examples of bi- cycle-friendly cities are Pontevedra, For long-distance travel the train is the Vitoria, San Sebastián, Valencia, Murcia, fastest and least contaminating option. , Córdoba and . 90% of Spanish trains are powered by electricity produced from renewable In places like Madrid, Barcelona, Ibiza, sources with the resulting reduction in Málaga and Granada there are also the carbon footprint. electric cars and bikes for hire by the hour, an ecological alternative which The Spanish National Railway Network is becoming popular all over the coun- (RENFE) links all the country's main try. These alternatives usually work cities and regions. The unquestionable via ­mobile apps which require prior stars of the system are the AVE high- registration. speed trains which serve 25 tourist destinations, with Madrid as their main hub. bb SEVILLE As an ecotourist we recommend the Renfe Spain Pass, valid on all the long and medium-distance AVE routes. The AVE network also has a Renfe-SNCF service that links Madrid and Barcelona with the main cities in and con- nects with the rest of the European rail- way network. You can purchase tickets and check timetables and routes on www.renfe.es LLwww.spain.info

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MINISTERIO DE INDUSTRIA, COMERCIO TURESPAÑA Y TURISMO

32 @spain @spain Spain.info /spain