Calpe will host the “Sport as a driver of tourism on the Costa Blanca” event on Friday, January 9. The initiative aims to examine the role of sport as a strategic tool for tourism and regional development.
Calpe hosts “Sport as a driver of tourism on the Costa Blanca” event
The event is organised by the Costa Blanca Tourism Board and the Spanish Institute for Sports Quality (ICDE), with the support of Estimar Hotels, Hosbec and Calpe Town Hall. It will bring together institutional representatives and professionals from the tourism and sports sectors at the Estimar Calpe Suitopia Hotel.
As part of the event, the official Spanish Sports Quality Seal will be awarded to Gran Hotel Sol y Mar and Hotel Estimar Suitopia, making them the first hotels in Spain to achieve this certification of excellence.
The event is aimed at institutional officials, hotel chain executives, facility managers, sports tourism companies, tour operators, event organisers and sports professionals.
Second Vice-President and Minister of the Presidency of the Valencian Government, Pepe Díez, will open the event at 4 pm, with Calpe Mayor Ana Sala closing the proceedings.
Sport tourism on the rise in Costa Blanca
The central focus will be the roundtable discussion “Sport as a driver of tourism on the Costa Blanca”, moderated by José Mancebo, Director General of the Alicante Tourism Board. Participants include José Hidalgo, President of the Spanish Sports Association (ADESP); Luis Cervera, Director General of Sports for the Valencian Government; Bernabé Cano, Provincial Deputy for Tourism in Alicante and Mayor of La Nucia; África Álvarez, President of the International Institute of Sports Excellence and Certifications (IINS) and Director General of ICDE; Nuria Montes, Secretary General of Hosbec; professional cyclist Mikel Landa of the Soudal–Quick-Step Team; and Sergio Baudot, Commercial Director of Estimar Hotels.
Following the roundtable, the two Calpe hotels will receive their Spanish Sports Excellence certifications.
The Costa Blanca has become a hotspot for sports tourism, attracting visitors from across Europe who are keen to combine sun-soaked holidays with their favourite sporting activities. From cycling and running to golf and water sports, the region offers world-class facilities and scenic routes that are ideal for both professionals and amateurs.
Hotels stepping up their game
Local hotels are increasingly investing in sports infrastructure and services, recognising that providing fitness facilities, training programmes and event hosting capabilities can give them a competitive edge. The new Spanish Sports Quality Seal highlights hotels that meet the highest standards of excellence in sports tourism, setting them apart in a growing market.
A boost for the local economy
Experts say that sports tourism not only benefits hotels but also supports restaurants, shops, and local service providers. Major sporting events and training camps draw visitors during quieter months, helping to extend the tourist season and bring economic benefits to towns like Calpe and surrounding areas.