Costa Adeje has been named Spain’s Sustainable Tourism Destination of the Year at the 14th edition of the prestigious La Razón Tourism Awards, held last night in Málaga.
This national accolade recognises the municipality’s commitment to quality, excellence, and above all, environmental responsibility in tourism.
The award was accepted on behalf of Adeje by Manuel Luis Méndez Martín, councillor for the Presidency at Adeje Town Hall. Speaking at the event, he said: “This award acknowledges the daily efforts of so many people who contribute to our destination: public administrations, the business community, residents, and of course, our visitors, who now see sustainability as an integral part of their overall experience.”
Patricia Paulsen, councillor for tourism, highlighted that this recognition comes after years of hard work following a clear roadmap rooted in environmental, economic, and social sustainability. “It is the culmination of long-term strategies that have helped position Adeje as a benchmark both nationally and internationally,” she explained.
Key initiatives driving this success include strong support for the Canary Green project, a collaboration with local businesses to promote responsible tourism, and the consolidation of Adeje’s status as a Smart Tourism Destination (DTI). Additionally, the recent creation of the Bosque de Las Nieves, an innovative green, edible, educational, and productive space, reflects Adeje’s holistic approach. This site will soon also house a supported employment centre for people with disabilities.
On the technological and environmental front, Adeje is pressing ahead with the construction of the Wave innovation centre, designed to foster creative solutions linked to tourism, the sea, and wellbeing.
The town is also leading the way with the first energy community in the Canary Islands and a municipally-run water laboratory accredited by ENAC, ensuring more autonomous and efficient water management, a vital element in a destination so dependent on its coastline and natural resources.
This latest honour adds to a growing list of accolades, including the 2024 Endecan Blue Municipality Award, granted by Endesa for achievements in air quality, energy efficiency, and coastal protection.
Adeje’s mayor, José Miguel Rodríguez Fraga, described the award as a collective success: “We are proud that our municipality continues to be recognised nationwide for its excellence, quality, and the commitment shown by everyone who makes up this destination. Together, we are developing projects that optimise resources and respect our environment.”
The awards gala, held in Málaga, brought together leading figures from across Spain’s public and private tourism sectors. Throughout the evening, speakers underlined the vital role tourism plays as one of Spain’s main economic and cultural engines, especially in light of the sector’s ongoing transformation towards more sustainable and responsible models.
For both residents and visitors, Costa Adeje’s continued recognition on the national stage reinforces its reputation as not only a top holiday choice but also a forward-looking community committed to preserving its exceptional natural and cultural heritage.
