In a country that counts the millions of tourists arriving at its coasts and cities, Spain is now becoming aware that its inland regions offer the chance to reconnect with nature, local culture, and our cherished traditions, gastronomy, and natural heritage.

The municipalities of what is known as "Empty Spain" have identified their cultural and natural assets, designing valuable tourism activities around them. These initiatives involve the local population, prioritise authenticity, and avoid overcrowding.

There are three key pillars supporting this growing influx of sensitive and discerning visitors:

• Charming accommodation (rural houses, inns, shelters, campsites, glamping).

• Enogastronomy, arguably the strongest of the local products (a wide variety of high-quality wines, olive mills, cheeses, sweets).

• And a motivational package of activities.

These experiences are what leave a truly authentic memory for travellers. The real value lies in the ability to convey local products, customs, and traditions.

Joining shepherds on their transhumance, harvesting honey, taking part in traditional pig slaughter, making chocolate, visiting medieval markets, attending music festivals in nature, celebrating events like La Tomatina, riding Europe’s longest zipline, discovering remnants of ancient trades and local crafts...

Nature, in a country with more than sixteen national parks and countless natural parks, is perfect for trekking, horse riding, rafting, quad biking, and canyoning. Our history is a source of fascination, with cultural routes that transport visitors to another dimension: the Camino de Santiago, the Andalusian Legacy, Jewish Quarters, Celtic heritage, the Cervantes Route, and the Camino del Cid.

Perhaps the most important achievement has been a shift in our concept of heritage. In addition to being the second country in the world with the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites, we have begun to recognise the value of forgotten elements such as mills, bridges, washhouses, granaries, and hermitages.

The outlook is highly positive, with more and more communities joining this network, allowing Spain to consolidate its position as a leader in a growing sector.