An exciting wave of new hotel developments is set to shape the tourism scene across Spain, with projects from the Costa del Sol to the Canary Islands, enticing visitors with modern accommodations and unique experiences. Among the most notable is the recent launch of the Fairmont La Hacienda Costa del Sol, which aims to blend luxury with local culture and caters to various types of travelers.
Located just one hour from Málaga and thirty minutes from Marbella, the new resort, Fairmont La Hacienda Costa del Sol, is the result of collaboration between Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, Millennium Hospitality Real Estate, and Odyssey Hotel Group. With its Andalusian-inspired design, the hotel offers stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea alongside 311 guest rooms, suites, and private villas, all featuring bright and airy interiors. The villas come with their own pools and terraces, making them ideal for families and guests seeking privacy.
Fairmont’s CEO, Omer Acar, emphasized the hotel’s commitment to the region, stating, “Fairmont has always been present in some of the world’s most iconic locations, creating spaces where guests and communities come together to celebrate life’s special moments. It is an honor to now be part of this story – preserving its heritage and creating new memories for generations to come.” Visitors can also indulge in culinary delights from the resort’s signature restaurant led by Michelin-starred chef Benito Gómez, who highlights local ingredients.
Beyond Andalusia, unique travel options are also blooming. The Canary Islands continue to draw hikers seeking less crowded experiences, especially on smaller islands like La Gomera. Here, travelers can extend their adventures with self-guided walking holidays, exploring paths through lush forests and diverse landscapes all the way to charming seaside villages. Many visitors choose eco-friendly options like the new Bancal hotel, promising sustainability through solar power and homegrown produce.
The regional tourist offerings don’t stop there. Jerez de la Frontera is gaining attention for its vibrant horse fair, where traditional Andalusian culture shines through parades and events from May 17-24. Visitors can immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere, enjoying flamenco performances and sampling local sherry, making it a noteworthy addition to the Spanish cultural calendar.
Meanwhile, Castilla-La Mancha is preparing to reopen its first parador hotel this May, situated near the second largest castle in Spain. Its design aims to harmonize with the region’s stunning landscapes, likely enhancing interest for visitors exploring historic sites around provinces like Guadalajara.
Across the culinary scene, Alicante has emerged as this year’s Spanish Capital of Gastronomy, inviting food enthusiasts to savor the local rice dishes and wines. An influx of foodie festivals throughout the year promises to attract even more visitors eager to discover authentic Spanish cuisine.
Further north, Catalonia is also set to shine with its appointment as the World Region of Gastronomy for 2025, launching initiatives for travelers to experience the region’s diverse offerings of food paired with nature exploration, as seen with Inntravel’s new hiking and culinary trips.
Despite the flurry of positive developments, concerns around local over-tourism and sustainability arise among established residents and businesses. Cor Vandenhoek, resident of the picturesque Torrox Costa, lamented the impacts of “van lifers” on local beauty spots, highlighting issues of littering and improper waste disposal.
“I wanted to retire and have a quiet life here, but I have never seen such chaos,” he stated, referencing the influx of camper vans crowding local areas. Issues of inappropriate behaviors and waste disposal by some travelers have led to tension between tourists and locals.
Experts suggest regulation and facilities for caravaners could mitigate the negative effects, much like successful models seen abroad. Catalan Caravaners Union representative Cesar Semarro shared, “If these rules are followed, you should be welcomed by locals with open arms.”
Nonetheless, with approximately 350,000 motorhomes traveling across Spain and growing, solutions must be sought to harmonize the interests of local communities with visitors to maintain Spain’s reputation as a prime tourist destination and preserve its rich heritage.
The summer season 2025 is already shaping up to be significant with improvements to travel infrastructures, such as the relaunch of the Spain Rail Pass, allowing international travelers convenient access to numerous destinations. Such adaptations signal the country’s readiness to welcome back tourists, fostering relationships between locals and visiting travelers drawn to Spain’s diverse cultures, culinary delights, and stunning landscapes. The push for sustainable development and thoughtful tourism continues to guide Spain’s path forward.