Catalonia has become the star destination for camping lovers in Spain, according to data from the National Statistics Institute (INE) that reveal a significant boom in this form of tourism during the year 2023.
Whether camping with tents, caravans or enjoying the comforts of a bungalow, the campsite offers a unique experience that combines comfort with a direct connection to nature.
The versatility of this option has attracted a growing number of travelers in recent years, marking an upward trend worldwide. Catalonia, with its diversity of landscapes and a wide range of campsites, has been highlighted as the main destination to live this experience.
Catalonia and its irresistible attraction of camping in Spain
According to data compiled by the INE, Catalonia was the epicenter of camping tourism in Spain last year. With a total of 4,027,019 travelers registered at Catalan campsites, there was a notable increase of 5% compared to 2022, when the figure stood at 3.8 million.
In addition, the region also leads in the number of overnight stays in campsites, reaching an impressive 19.2 million, an increase of 4.3% over the previous year.
The boom in camping tourism has been accompanied by changes in other tourism segments.
While apartment tourism registered a 4% decrease in 2023, with 1,019,520 travelers and 5.4 million overnight stays, rural tourism in Catalonia experienced a 2.5% annual increase, reaching 504,445 travelers and 1,344,595 overnight stays, representing a 4.5% increase compared to 2022.
The offer of campsites in Catalonia
The camping phenomenon in Spain has its roots in the 1950s, when families sought refuge on the beaches and mountains to escape the heat and enjoy the outdoors. Over time, campsites have evolved from offering basic services to become real cities camouflaged among the vegetation.
Catalonia has a varied offer, from the luxurious Playa Montroig Camping Resort in Tarragona, recognized as the best campsite in Spain in 2023, to the Sènia Cala Gogo in Sant Antoni de Calonge and Mas Sant Josep in Platja d’Aro.
Catalonia: a diverse and attractive scenario
Both for those who prefer the mountains and for beach lovers, Catalonia offers options such as the Berga Resort in Berga and the Stel in Puigcerdà, as well as the Castell Montgrí in L’Estartit and Las Palmeras in Tarragona.
The boom in camping tourism in Catalonia highlights the community’s commitment to sustainable tourism practices.
With figures that show a constant growth, the importance of this sector for the regional economy is evident, employing around 3,000 people and reaching an average occupancy rate of 47.87%, which is close to 50% during weekends.
