


Benidorm / 25 February 2026
The Valencian Community is consolidating its position as a benchmark for sustainable tourism through co-governance, tourism intelligence and a regenerative development model, according to Regional Secretary for Tourism José Manuel Camarero.
Speaking at the 1st Working Committee of the International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO), held in Benidorm, Mr Camarero said the region is advancing “a tourism model that integrates shared governance, innovation, data-driven decision-making and environmental regeneration as strategic pillars to guarantee competitiveness and territorial well-being.”
He took part in the opening panel on governance and sustainability alongside Benidorm Mayor Toni Pérez.
Co-governance and local collaboration
Mr Camarero highlighted the role of Tourism Sustainability Plans in Destinations (PSTD), financed through both ordinary regional funding and EU Recovery (MRR) funds. These plans are designed to support transformative projects in tourist municipalities through direct collaboration with local authorities.
He also underlined the importance of the new Comprehensive System for Tourism Destination Quality and Sustainability (SICTED), led by the Regional Secretariat for Tourism in partnership with local entities, as a key tool to strengthen competitiveness while embedding sustainability standards.
Data-driven tourism intelligence
The Regional Secretary stressed that the Valencian Community’s Tourism Intelligence System, developed via Ivat·tur, represents a pioneering approach to evidence-based governance.
The system incorporates technological deployment tools, destination intelligence platforms and smart dashboards, aligned with international frameworks such as INSTO, ETIS and DTI models to ensure interoperability and global benchmarking.
Towards a regenerative tourism model
Beyond impact mitigation, Mr Camarero advocated for a regenerative tourism approach — one that actively contributes to environmental restoration and community well-being.
Initiatives such as Creaturisme were highlighted for promoting authentic experiences linked to agritourism, fishing tourism and olive oil tourism, supporting local economies and heritage.
He also referenced visitor awareness campaigns promoting responsible tourism and the recent launch of a carbon footprint calculator on the official tourism website.
The Valencian Community’s Tourism Sustainability Strategy has also received AENOR certification, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability as a central pillar of its tourism model.
BENIDORM: Major Music Festival Returns for 2026
The city of Benidorm is preparing for another busy summer season with the return of the Indiverso Festival, scheduled for 18 July 2026 at the SkyFest venue. Organisers say the event will feature leading indie artists and DJs and is expected to attract thousands of visitors to the resort.
Local officials say the festival forms part of a broader cultural programme aimed at strengthening Benidorm’s reputation as one of Spain’s leading entertainment destinations.
Meanwhile, the city continues to promote its Poniente district redevelopment, with luxury residential towers and smart-city infrastructure positioning the area as a premium investment location on the Costa Blanca.
LA NUCÍA: International Rally Event Returns
Motorsport fans will soon be heading to La Nucía as the Rallye La Nucía Mediterráneo prepares to return to the region. The rally is considered one of the most exciting sporting events on the Costa Blanca calendar and attracts drivers and spectators from across Europe.
Local authorities expect the event to provide a significant boost to tourism and hospitality businesses across the Marina Baixa region.
ALTEA: Cultural Events Continue to Draw Visitors
The coastal town of Altea continues to maintain its reputation as one of the Costa Blanca’s cultural hubs, hosting exhibitions and concerts throughout the year. Recent cultural programmes include art exhibitions and music performances at local cultural centres designed to promote local artists and international talent.
The town’s historic old quarter and arts scene remain key attractions for both tourists and residents.
ALFAZ DEL PI: Infrastructure Updates and Community Notices
Residents in L'Alfàs del Pi have been notified of scheduled maintenance works affecting electricity supplies in some neighbourhoods this week as part of routine infrastructure upgrades.
Local authorities say the work is necessary to improve reliability across the area’s expanding residential zones.
FINESTRAT: Continued Growth in Property Demand
The municipality of Finestrat continues to see strong interest from international property buyers, particularly those seeking homes close to Benidorm’s beaches while living in a quieter setting.
Analysts say the wider Costa Blanca property market remains attractive to foreign buyers, though the market has become more selective and data-driven as investors look for long-term value.
Local planners say residential development in the area continues to expand alongside tourism and commercial infrastructure.
REGIONAL: Festivals and Spring Celebrations Begin
Across the wider Costa Blanca North, towns are preparing for traditional spring celebrations including Fallas festivals, which bring fireworks, music, and cultural parades to communities throughout the region.
These events mark the start of the region’s busy tourism season, with visitors expected to arrive in large numbers over the coming months.
That’s your Costa Blanca update — all the news you need to stay informed this week. Stay tuned for regular updates!



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