The Pathway to Sustainability in a Mass Tourism Destination: The Case of Lanzarote

Abstract

This article delves into the unique evolution of Lanzarote as a benchmark for sustainable tourism. It examines how the island’s cultural values and political influences have shaped its sustainable tourism model over the last 50 years. This study utilizes a review of academic literature on tourism sustainability and case studies, emphasising the need for a conceptual and analytical framework. By analysing Lanzarote’s sustainable practices and challenges, this article highlights the island’s paradoxical status as both a mass tourism hub and a sustainable destination, led by the artist César Manrique’s visionary approach, which seamlessly integrates art and nature while providing a blueprint for sustainable tourism. Key milestones and achievements are identified, such as UNESCO’s designation of the entire island as a Biosphere Reserve in 1993, showcasing Lanzarote’s governance approach to balancing economic, socio-cultural, and environmental sustainability. The findings underscore Lanzarote’s role as an international benchmark in sustainable tourism, offering insights and lessons applicable to other destinations. The article concludes that Lanzarote’s sustained commitment to social awareness and natural resource protection continues to address global challenges, serving as a reference for sustainable development in island tourism destinations.