The Cabildo de La Palma is implementing a new tourism strategy to attract visitors interested in “experiences without overcrowding” while prioritising sustainability and preserving the island’s natural charm. The initiative, led by Councillor for Tourism Raquel Rebollo and consultant Manuel Luis Hernández, was presented in a meeting with key stakeholders from La Palma’s tourism sector, where the vision and goals of the strategy were outlined.
Rebollo emphasized that the focus of this new plan is to foster tourism that values spending at the destination over sheer visitor numbers. She explained that the strategy seeks a “comprehensive and intelligent development” of tourism, promoting sustainability and balance to avoid the overcrowding challenges faced by other popular destinations.
Manuel Luis Hernández highlighted La Palma’s unique appeal for tourists who appreciate nature and local culture, offering a more authentic, less conventional experience. A notable aspect of the plan includes a tourism management model that encourages collaboration between local suppliers, private sectors, and municipalities to streamline project execution and foster community engagement.
The strategy also proposes expanding activities that create memorable tourism experiences. Stargazing, for instance, is an underutilized offering that currently attracts only 15% of visitors, despite La Palma’s status as one of the world’s best locations for astronomical observation. In addition, the strategy will promote other activities centered on biodiversity and cultural heritage, aiming to strengthen the local economy and increase job opportunities across the island.
