Work

Touristification and Expansion of Short-Term Rentals in Mediterranean Destinations: The Case of Rural Areas

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study analyses how the intensive use of short-term rentals (STRs) in the tourism sector contributes to the transformation and touristification of rural areas in mature tourist destinations, using the island of Mallorca, Spain, as a case study. Based on growth machine theory, the analysis innovatively examines the factors driving the expansion of STRs in rural spaces, with a focus on economic, social, and territorial dynamics. The research hypothesis is that the proliferation of STRs acts as a key element in rural touristification. Using a combination of spatial and temporal indicators, the study identifies patterns of intensification and dispersion of STRs in rural areas, offering a comparison with other Mediterranean destinations, particularly in Spain. The results show that STRs have generated significant spatial impacts, leading to the displacement of agricultural land use and increasing tensions within local communities, mainly due to rising housing prices. The study highlights the need to implement spatial planning policies that restrain the uncontrolled expansion of STRs, ensure sustainable tourism planning, and promote housing policies that protect residents from the negative effects of touristification. Various scenarios for the evolution of STRs are proposed depending on their regulation.

Source: Land

DOI: 10.3390/land14040881

Authors: Fernando Almeida-García, Apollònia Monserrat-Febrer, Rafael Cortés-Macías, Miquel Àngel Coll-Ramis

Institutions: Universidad de Málaga, Universitat de les Illes Balears

Language: English

Topic: Migration, Aging, and Tourism Studies

Subfield: Demography

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Sustainable cities and communities, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137