On October 30 last year, Elx and Santa Pola became centers of sustainable industrial tourism in Alicante Province, thanks to a special tour organized by the Alicante Chamber of Commerce and the Costa Blanca Provincial Tourism Board under the name Celebrity Trip on Costa Blanca. The day offered participants immersive experiences in sustainable industrial tourism, highlighting local wealth through tradition and responsible production.
History and culture tour in Elx
The journey began at Plaza de los Luceros in Alicante, where a group of sustainable and cultural tourism enthusiasts gathered early. They headed toward Elx, with a first stop at a palm oil farm, a space dedicated to the region’s emblematic crop. During the visit, attendees learned traditional techniques for palm care and harvest timing, and they observed the agricultural systems that have shaped Elx as a national benchmark in palm cultivation. The experience connected visitors with the history of the landscape, the people who grow the crop, and the modern methods that ensure environmental stewardship. This portion of the itinerary showed how a simple agricultural practice can reflect a community’s values and contribute to the local economy, while inviting questions about sustainable farming and rural resilience. The focus remained on respect for seasonality, soil health, and water conservation as guiding principles for responsible cultivation.
Santa Pola Salt Flats.
Discovering the history of salt in Santa Pola
The group arrived at noon at the Salt Museum in Santa Pola, where a guided tour traced the origins of regional salt production to current sustainable extraction techniques. The visit highlighted Artemia habitats and the broader ecological balance within the salt flats, illustrating how brine ponds support biodiversity while producing a regional commodity. The guide explained the role of Artemia and the microalgae ecosystems that make the ponds productive, offering a practical view of how salt production can coexist with environmental protection. The discussion tied the industry to coastal livelihoods, tourism, and local gastronomy, underscoring how this resource has shaped the culture and economy of Santa Pola for centuries. The approach integrated historical context with modern conservation practices, helping participants appreciate the environmental responsibilities that accompany traditional industries.
After a morning full of learning, the group headed to a local restaurant to enjoy a lunch featuring Alicante cuisine. The meal highlighted the richness of the region by offering traditional recipes prepared with fresh local products, showcasing Costa Blanca’s ties to local flavors and seasonal ingredients. The menu celebrated sea harvests, garden produce, and artisanal techniques, giving attendees a taste of the region’s culinary identity. The setting allowed conversations about sustainable sourcing, farm to table practices, and the value of supporting small suppliers who maintain age-old methods while embracing modern safety and quality standards. Diners left with new ideas about how food can tell a story about place, craft, and community resilience.
Santa Pola fish market.
A look at the harbor and fish market
The day concluded with a visit to Santa Pola port and its fish market. Participants observed traditional fishing techniques still practiced in the region and had the chance to witness a live fish auction, as well as a stroll through the peixateria where seafood and local produce can be purchased directly. The experience provided a tangible link between generations of fishermen and today’s sustainability measures that reduce waste, improve supply chain transparency, and promote responsible harvesting. The group learned how local markets coordinate with restaurants and households to ensure fresh, seasonal offerings while supporting small-scale fishers. The closing moments offered a sensory immersion into harbor life, from the hum of the docks to the scent of the sea, salt, and the daily rhythm of coastal commerce.
Event that reinforces the value of sustainable tourism
The Celebrity Trip on Costa Blanca underscored the cultural and industrial richness of Elx and Santa Pola and reinforced a tourism approach that respects the environment and local history. The initiative demonstrated how sustainable tourism can safeguard natural resources while enriching the regions’ cultural offerings and local economy. The organizers, the Alicante Chamber of Commerce and the Costa Blanca Provincial Tourism Board, are setting new standards for local tourism through events like this, showcasing experiences that blend heritage with sustainability and leaving a memorable impression on participants. This model invites travelers to see tourism as a stewardship activity that benefits both visitors and the communities they visit. It also reinforces the idea that responsible travel decisions can support long-term viability for local crafts, farms, and traditions.