Copyright euroweeklynews
President of the Generalitat Valenciana, Carlos Mazón, has underlined the growing importance of gastronomic tourism in promoting sustainability, local development and the year-round diversification of visitors to the Valencian Community. Speaking on Monday October 27 after signing a collaboration agreement between Turisme Comunitat Valenciana and La Villajoyosa Town Hall, represented by mayor Marcos Zaragoza, Mazón praised the town’s long-standing commitment to showcasing its culinary heritage through the brand La Vila Gastronòmica. He described gastronomy as “one of the great drivers of the tourism industry, allowing us to diversify the sector and strengthen our position on the global map of fine dining”. A pioneer in gastrotourism Mazón highlighted Alicante province as a leader in culinary innovation, noting that La Vila Joiosa was among the first municipalities in the region to recognise the economic and cultural potential of its food traditions. He said La Vila Gastronòmica is now “a fully established reference after 25 years of success supporting the fishing, hospitality, chocolate and nougat industries”. The president added that gastronomy, together with sports, cultural and music tourism, offers a powerful alternative to traditional ‘sun and sea’ travel. “It allows us to consolidate our reputation as an excellent destination offering unique and authentic experiences,” he said. He also reaffirmed the Valencian government’s commitment to working with the sector to “continue innovating and creating a distinctive, high-quality tourism model”, while insisting on sustainable growth “from environmental, heritage and social perspectives”. Rejecting what he called “absurd taxes that place us at a disadvantage against our competitors”, Mazón instead stressed the importance of clear regulation, such as the new framework for short-stay accommodation. Strong performance and new investment Tourism in the Valencian Community continues to show strong results. In September, the region received 942,618 travellers — a 2.7 per cent rise year-on-year — with domestic tourism up 1.2 per cent and international visitors increasing by 4.4 per cent. Since January, overnight stays have surpassed 25 million, marking the highest figure in recorded history. Reaffirming the Generalitat’s commitment to La Vila Joiosa, Mazón announced an investment of €450,000 to modernise the surroundings of the Barberes Sud Roman Villa archaeological site. Funded by European resources through the Department of Innovation, Industry, Commerce and Tourism, the project will add shaded areas and new visitor facilities to enhance the site’s appeal as a cultural and historical landmark. He also reiterated government support for key projects such as the planned expansion of La Vila Joiosa’s hospital, calling it “a vital initiative to guarantee citizens and visitors the safety and healthcare they deserve”. Promoting local gastronomy The newly signed agreement with Turisme Comunitat Valenciana aims to promote quality, innovation and the dissemination of La Villajoyosa’s culinary identity. The initiative includes marketing actions for the 25th anniversary of La Vila Gastronòmica, as well as a research project and a commemorative book honouring Carlos Llorca Baus, one of its original promoters.
