Catalan hotels take water-saving measures amid drought emergency

Catalonia is experiencing the worst drought in its history, and most of the region has been declared to be in a state of emergency this week due to the ongoing situation.  

Tourism is a cornerstone of the Catalan economy, contributing 12% of GDP and employing nearly 13% of the workforce, and the sector is concerned about the effects the drought will have this summer. 

The Hotel Barcarola in Sant Feliu de Guíxols, located just a few steps away from the stunning Platja de Sant Pol beach, has been investing in measures to reduce water consumption for some time. 

Ylonka van Veenendaal, the hotel's general manager, explains that they installed a reservoir that allows them to regulate water pressure and reduce consumption in the rooms, as well as replacing faucets to minimize water usage. 

The hotel's swimming pool has also changed in recent years from using freshwater to saltwater.

Van Veenendaal explains that the elimination of freshwater has allowed them to "use fewer chemical products," making maintenance less expensive.

The hotel also installed a cover over the pool to prevent water evaporation during high temperatures.

Another key measure is raising awareness among guests. Barcarola informs tourists at check-in about the ongoing drought in Catalonia and asks them to contribute by taking simple steps, such as not filling bathtubs or reusing towels.   

The hotel even offers guests a free drink at the hotel bar for every day they choose not to have their room cleaned.

The director says this saves both "water for cleaning and for washing towels.”

To complete the cycle, the hotel works with a laundry service that "uses recycled water.”