Latest news with #UnescoHeritage
Wales Online
13-05-2025
- Wales Online
Tenerife council approves plan to limit tourists with new 'daily cap'
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Get the latest Wales Online breaking news on WhatsApp In an effort to protect its natural environment, Tenerife has passed a motion aimed at restricting tourist access to part of the island. A plan advocating for a more sustainable tourism management model to address 'mounting environmental pressures' received strong support. The initiative is designed to protect the natural heritage of the northern side of Tenerife, specifically Anaga Rural Park, which is facing increasing strain from thousands of visitors who are drawn by its dramatic scenery and popular hiking trails. Read more: UK tourists in Tenerife to be charged new 'green tax' after over-tourism complaints Carmen Peña, the councillor behind the proposal, stressed the urgency of addressing the threat to the area's fragile ecosystems. As part of the motion, the council is urging the Cabildo of Tenerife to introduce a daily cap on visitor numbers. The proposal, which pays particular attention to stemming the flow of private vehicles, aims to 'safeguard the area's biodiversity while maintaining a balance between tourism, local life, and traditional land uses', reports local news site Canarian Weekly. Other areas of the Canary Islands are also looking at new measures to combat the negative effects of tourism on the natural environment. Holidaymakers visiting Teide National Park, one of Tenerife's main tourist attractions, will be charged a new 'green tax' from next year following complaints about 'over-tourism'. Locals and environmentalists have long complained about tourists parking their cars illegally, using unmarked trails, climbing fragile formations and taking volcanic rock as souvenirs. Other measures include installing security cameras and enforcing stricter traffic controls to limit the number of people who visit the park at any time. The Cabildo de Tenerife had already announced an online reservation system for certain, more advanced trails around the Unesco Heritage site in April.
Tatler Asia
13-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Tatler Asia
Home tour: A reimagined 1940s Beverly Hills home with timeless California glamour
Photo 1 of 2 An old towering tree provides ample shade for the California-colonial style residence Photo 2 of 2 The double-lot property features tall chimneys and roof rafters with white stucco details In an era when heritage structures often fall victim to demolition in favour of new construction, OSKLO's approach is a powerful counterpoint with preservation-minded renovation that honours architectural heritage while embracing contemporary California living. 'We wanted to reconstruct the house but at the same time maintain its look and pedigree,' explain the designers, who conducted extensive research on classic Beverly Hills homes from the 1940s, drawing inspiration from Neff and Paul Williams for the exterior restoration. Don't miss: Rumah Kechik: Reviving Unesco Heritage shophouses in Melaka, Malaysia Completed after just over a year of meticulous remodelling, the façade showcases a creamy white stucco exterior framed harmoniously against century-old brick hardscape with solid redwood framing. Additionally, copper sconces with flickering gas wicks add both period authenticity and romantic ambiance. Photo 1 of 2 The expansive backyard with an oval French grey-bottom swimming pool Photo 2 of 2 Everything is surrounded in lush, mature greenery, especially after Los Angeles' above-average rainfall In the expansive backyard is an unusual architectural element for properties in the area: an oval French grey-bottom swimming pool recalls the glamourous golden age of Beverly Hills. Concrete outdoor furnishings from Big Daddy Antiques create multiple zones for poolside relaxation and fireside gatherings to enjoy Southern California's indoor-outdoor lifestyle. Read more: Home tour: A modern country house in Vancouver with an expansive art-filled garden 'Everything is surrounded in lush, mature greenery, especially after Los Angeles' several years of above-average rainfall,' notes Arya. Photo 1 of 3 The storybook pool cabana that has been reimagined as an artist's studio (Photo: Sam Frost) Photo 2 of 3 A custom Studio OSKLO coffee table complement a pair of Jeanneret chairs upholstered in emerald pony hair Photo 3 of 3 A picture perfect view from the artist's studio Perfectly positioned in between is the storybook pool cabana that has been reimagined as an artist's studio–a charming focal point with its Palladium adornment. Inside, a sophisticated blend of periods and influences unfolds: an 18th-century marble relief of a small child, alongside more contemporary elements like a pair of Jeanneret chairs upholstered in emerald pony hair, a custom Studio OSKLO coffee table, and a vintage rug sourced from Hong Kong. See also: 7 iconic cantilever chairs that shaped modern furniture Photo 1 of 3 The light-filled living room with a marble fireplace (Photo: Sam Frost) Photo 2 of 3 The Oliver Gustav sofa emphasises togetherness in the cosy living area (Photo: Sam Frost) Photo 3 of 3 A brushed fusion blue marble built-in bar counter for sophisticated entertaining (Photo: Sam Frost) The home's split-level layout positions the main bedrooms and kitchen on the upper floor, with a built-out basement housing a screening room and compact office space. Don't miss: Home tour: California modernism meets Japanese sensibility in this Beverly Hills home All rooms face rear elevation that provides an unexpected bonus: panoramic views overlooking Beverly Hills and 'an unknown lake that's used for drinking water,' describes Michael Martin, the other half of the OSKLO design duo. 'While the lake is off-limits to people, flocks of birds can always be seen going back and forth, framing an amazing sunset,' he observes. Photo 1 of 2 Ample light and views in the dining area Photo 2 of 2 Studio OSKLO dining chairs upholstered in natural shearling surround a custom table crafted in Arabescato Orobico Grigio marble (Photo: Sam Frost) Throughout the interior, OSKLO maintained original architectural elements wherever possible–doors were preserved, mouldings meticulously replicated, and brickwork carefully restored. 'From colours to window details and moulding choices, we really felt like the past offered most of our architectural answers,' says Arya. Read more: Peranakan porcelain: Inside Malaysia's largest heritage Kamcheng collection Striking a balance between historical reverence and contemporary comfort, seamless herringbone oak flooring anchors the home with warmth, as sophisticated accents of white and grey marble, limestone, and rift oak cabinetry punctuate with dramatic elegance. Photo 1 of 3 Herringbone oak flooring anchors the kitchen with warmth (Photo: Sam Frost) Photo 2 of 3 Sophisticated accents of white and grey marble, and rift oak cabinetry (Photo: Michael Clifford) Photo 3 of 3 The lush greenery outdoors provide the perfect backdrop (Photo: Michael Clifford) Meanwhile, the colour scheme remains deliberately understated, as Michael explains: 'We never stray far from the lighter colours of the Pantone chart. We stuck to classic variations of white but then added a few darker tones that lend a moodier feel.' Understated, elegant and refined, the indoor spaces are then furnished with a carefully orchestrated mix that echoes a gentle European country vibe with select accents of Japanese and primitive accessories. See also: Home tour: An interior designer's monochromatic home with contouring accents in Canada Photo 1 of 2 The television room in the built-out basement with a custom-built banquette Photo 2 of 2 Thoughtful curation in the office space with a 19th-century aged Japanese desk The living room centres around an Oliver Gustav sofa that emphasises togetherness, while a commanding Paul Franklin abstract oil painting overlooks the marble fireplace flanked by antique side chairs in matching washed linen. A brushed fusion blue marble built-in bar counter completes the space designed for sophisticated entertaining, where homeowners and their guests may adjourn to the low-level terrace that overlooks the backyard and the Los Angeles skyline beyond. Don't miss: Talking hospitality, craft and honest design with Japanese architect Keiji Ashizawa Above The circular primary bathroom suite Above The shower area is wrapped in Calcatta Gold marble (Photo: Sam Frost) Above Palladian architecture with curved French doors (Photo: Sam Frost) In the dining room, Studio OSKLO dining chairs upholstered in natural shearling surround a custom table crafted in Arabescato Orobico Grigio marble, while the television room features a custom-built banquette in linen paired with a Studio oak table, creating a more casual gathering space. Read more: Home tour: A timeless apartment in Potts Point, Sydney infused with continental charm Even the office space exhibits thoughtful curation, with a 19th-century aged Japanese desk and antique lounge chairs from the 1960s creating an environment that's both functional and inviting. Photo 1 of 2 The high-ceilinged master bedroom suite Photo 2 of 2 The guest bedroom with a Ralph Lauren bed in pewter velvet The main bedroom showcases the OSKLO Pavilion king bed complemented by walnut nightstands and a custom marble console, all arranged over a luxurious Lawrence of La Brea rug. Meanwhile, in the guest room, a Ralph Lauren bed in pewter velvet shares space with a Gio Ponti writing desk, bentwood chair, Charlotte Perriand desk lamp, and custom Studio OSKLO walnut nightstands. See also: 5 interior designer tips for kid-friendly bedrooms that grow with your children Above A Charlotte Perriand desk lamp on the Gio Ponti writing desk (Photo: Sam Frost) Above A walnut nightstand paired with a Lawrence of La Brea rug (Photo: Sam Frost) 'In my early 20s, friends of mine would host the most beautiful dinner parties at an estate in the same area, where people would read poems amid a collection of blue-and-white pottery in this home that had not been touched in decades,' recalls Michael, for whom the project carries personal significance beyond its architectural merit. He continues: 'They eventually sold the property, and it was torn down to create a 20,000-sq-ft mega-mansion. I'm reminded of it every time I see that hillside, but luckily, we were able to create a tasteful renovation that respects this home's past and the legacy of this amazing area that's relatively unknown in Los Angeles.' NOW READ 5 iconic hotels in film: Where architecture becomes the star Why is it important to build homes that withstand climate change? Mother's Day 2025: Homes designed by architects for their mums Credits
Telegraph
27-04-2025
- Telegraph
The 17 best things to do in Majorca
For a relatively small island, Majorca offers a seemingly infinite variety of landscape and rich and diverse cultural experiences. With its mild weather, an abundance of sports can be enjoyed all year round, from hiking and cycling in the imposing Sierra de Tramuntana, a Unesco World Heritage Site, to horse-riding, golf and tennis. There is something to suit all tastes and interests, whether that be a historic castle, a tranquil monastery, an ancient Talayotic site, a fascinating museum or a sumptuous estate with a Moorish legacy. Wildlife sanctuaries, nature reserves and the craggy coastline are ripe for exploring, as well as authentic inland villages in Majorca's agricultural heartland. For further Majorca inspiration, see our guides to the island's best hotels, restaurants, beaches and nightlife. Sóller Enjoy a hike and hearty lunch in the Tramuntana mountains The Sierra de Tramuntana, a Unesco Heritage Site, stretches 62 miles (100 km) from Andratx to Pollença and offers the perfect environment for hiking at all levels. An enjoyable seven-mile (12 km) circular route is from the Cuber Reservoir to charming Refugi Tossals Verds, a hostel which serves a delicious three-course lunch and dinner. Book a few days in advance. Insider's tip: Allow two hours for the hike and choose between two routes, an easy meandering path or an adventurous track that includes fixed chains along a short stretch of mountain. Do bring water, map and also suntan lotion and energy snacks. Marvel at the mountain vistas aboard a vintage train With its polished wood carriages and familiar toot, the historic El Tren de Sóller offers a one-hour scenic journey through the Tramuntana mountains. Constructed in 1912, its purpose was to transport oranges and olives swiftly to Palma rather than via the arduous and hilly tracks. Crossing bridges, a lofty five-arched viaduct and rumbling through 13 dark, musty tunnels, makes for a thrilling ride. Insider's tip: Why not combine the train journey with a ride on the retro tram from Sóller station to the local port, and a boat trip to Sa Calobra beach? A round trip with costs €79 (£67). Deià Visit the former home of a prolific British writer Ca n'Alluny, meaning 'The Far House', lies just outside Deià village and includes a blissfully tranquil garden. This was once home to prolific English poet, Robert Graves, until his death in 1985. Now Ca n'Alluny has become a museum yet retains the original features of the house including the poet's knick knacks, books and letters. It is a must visit for culture vultures. Insider's tip: Make a brief pilgrimage to the tiny cemetery of Deià, close to the village church, to see the burial stone of Robert Graves engraved with the dates of his birth and death, along with the simple words: Robert Graves, Poeta. Valldemossa Experience a monastery through the eyes of Chopin In 1839, Frederic Chopin and his lover, George Sand, spent a winter of discontent at a Carthusian monastery in the mountain town of Valldemossa, now the Celda de Chopin, where the consumptive composer managed to write most of his acclaimed Preludes on the Pleyel piano. One can see the instrument, alongside curiosities such as historic musical scores, pictures, correspondence and period furniture. Insider's tip: At the monastery, buy a copy of A Winter in Majorca, George Sand's acerbic and amusing account of their disastrous stay and dip into it while enjoying the town's famed hot chocolate and coca de patata, meaning potato buns, in a local café. Bunyola Stroll around a private estate with a 1000-year legacy With a Hispanic-Moorish past, Jardins d'Alfàbia is a mesmerisingly beautiful estate with a property that, in part, dates back to the 13th century. In Moorish times, it was owned by Ben-Abet, whose expertise in landscaping and irrigation is still apparent today in the extensive gardens. Highlights include the spectacular pergola with 72 columns and 24 stone hydras with water jets. Insider's tip: The estate's shady and peaceful al fresco café is definitely worth a visit, particularly for the delicious homemade lemonade and freshly-squeezed orange juice. Before you leave, check out the main property's magnificent coffered ceiling that dates back to 1170. Alcudia Discover art, sculptures and roses at a historic hacienda by the sea One of the jewels of the north is the Yannick and Ben Jakober Foundation's Sa Bassa Blanca Museum. Surrounded by woodland, this romantic landmark, a Hispanic-Moorish hacienda by the sea, was built by the Egyptian architect, Hassam Fathy. Today the property houses an eclectic mix of modern art installations, an observatory, and 150 portraits of European aristocratic children from the 16th-19th centuries housed in a former underground reservoir. Insider's tip: Don't miss the fossilised skeleton of a Siberian woolly rhinoceros in an underground gallery, which also exhibits works by such artists as Miguel Barceló. And do be sure to visit both the fabulous rose garden and the zoological park of animals sculpted by Ben Jakober and Yannick Vu. Consell Celebrate with a tipple at the oldest winery in Majorca A visit to Bodegas Ribas, the oldest family winery in Majorca, established in 1711, is a must for lovers of the grape. Situated in the sleepy village of Consell in Majorca's agricultural heartland, Ribas offers fun and memorable tours. With 100 acres of vineyards, this family-owned business, with more than 300 years of history, has the greatest diversity of grape varieties on the island. Insider's tip: Choose from one of several excellent guided tours that include the winery, historic house and also the grounds and vineyards. Tours offer tastings of wines and olive oil accompanied by platters of appetisers of Iberian ham and cheese. Pre-booking essential. Ses Salines Visit the ancient salt pans of Es Trenc For a fascinating and original day out, pop by the Es Trenc salt pans close to the small town of Ses Salines which have been in use since prehistoric times. In an area of outstanding natural biodiversity with a large number of bird species, a hard hat, one-hour tour of the various salt pans is offered. There's a lovely shop and café too. Insider's tip: Do make time to see the 9th-century Talayotic Bronze Age settlement of Els Antigors nearby and also look out for the pink flamingos that cluster around the tall grasses in the marshes here, especially between July and September. Discover a botanical garden with a vast lake Don't be put off by the giant plastic cactus man at the entrance to Botanicactus. This is no children's attraction but rather a breathtakingly beautiful botanical garden divided into specific horticultural zones. With 15,000 specimens and 1,600 species of fauna, you can wander around this vast peaceful park and admire the mature and towering trees and cacti, Mediterranean plants, and wide artificial lake of 10,000m2. Thankfully a map is provided as at times it feels as if you've stepped into a beguiling yet mysterious landscape, more fitting to that of the Lost World by author, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Insider's tip: Bring good walking shoes and in warm weather, sun cream and a hat. Remember to visit the exotic hen breeds and other birds in their spacious enclosures. Alaró Explore a ruined castle with a Moorish legacy Clinging to a craggy hilltop above the village of Alaró are the 15th-century remains of Castell d'Alaró, a castle that dates back to Moorish times. Today there is a pretty chapel at the site and impressive vistas to the Tramuntana mountains and distant sea. It's a two-hour schlep from the village but worth every step, given the memorable views. Insider's tip: From the castle, head lower down the hill to Es Verger (00 34 971 18 21 26) for lunch. This rustic restaurant serves superb lamb and pork roasted in a wood-fired oven. With an open hearth, and flacons of gusty wine, good cheer is guaranteed. Campos Get up close with ostriches in the countryside Artestruz, in the rural heartland of Majorca, is home to a friendly and curious bunch of ostriches that appear to enjoy meeting visitors. Reared and lovingly cared for by the same family for many years, the birds are treated with respect and roam a large piece of terrain. You can feed the birds from bowls of seeds while enjoying an informative and entertaining tour by a family member. Later, visitors can visit the shop which sells carved ostrich eggs and handcrafts and enjoy a drink on the terrace or try a jumbo family-sized omelette in the kitchen. Insider's tip: Best to avoid touching the ostriches, as their behaviour can be unpredictable, and wear casual clothes and comfy shoes. Porto Cristo Sail on an underground lake at the Caves of Drach Discover the thrilling subterranean world of the caves of Drach in Porto Cristo. Situated on the east coast, this vast network of caves is also home to Lake Martel, one of Europe's largest underground lakes. Explore the underlit caves and gaze in wonder at the ancient giant stalagmites and stalactites. A relaxing boat ride on the lake and mini concert with a live orchestra is also included in the guided tour. There's a beachside restaurant, gift shop and picnic area too. Insider's tip: Bring sensible footwear and a jumper as it can be cold underground. Calvia Visit brown bears and the longest zip line at Reserva Galatzó For an action-packed day in the hills, head for La Reserva, situated at the base of Puig de Galatzó, one of the island's most notable mountains. This vast nature reserve includes waterfalls, grottos and a natural rock pool for refreshing dips. Rescued animals such as brown bears, donkeys, goats, emus, and peacocks can be observed in their enclosures. Activities include rock climbing, riding the longest zipline in Majorca and beekeeping guided visits. There's a bar and BBQ grill and picnic area set in peaceful woodland. Insider's tip: Bring sensible footwear, swimwear, sun cream and water Colònia de Sant Jordi Sail to the protected marine reserve of Cabrera Take an hour's sail from the port of Colònia de Sant Jordi to the national park of Cabrera off the southeast coast of Majorca. This archipelago, consisting of Cabrera Grande and a series of islets, is now the largest protected marine environment in the western Mediterranean. Stroll to the ruined castle, historic museum and archaeological site and relax on the pristine beach. Insider's tip: Make time to pop by the visitors' centre in the port of Colonia de Sant Jordi, housed in a quirky circular stone building. It offers useful information about Cabrera island and has a substantial aquarium with 5,000 specimens of fish. Pòrtol Meet traditional ceramicists on the 'Ruta de Fang' mud route This fascinating walking tour of Mallorca's traditional potteries can be enjoyed on foot or by car. La Ruta de Fang, as it is known, encompasses a small historical museum and the villages of Pòrtol and Sa Cabaneta, home to pottery and clay. You can visit the mud museum and tour the workshops on the route where you can meet potters and buy ceramics including the island's iconic siurell clay whistles. Alcudia Observe an abundance of birds at S'Albufera Wetlands S'Albufera Natural Park in the north of the island is home to the largest wetlands in the Balearic Islands with a surface area of 5,000 acres. The park attracts more than 300 species of bird and shelters 10,000 more during the winter months. With marshes, coastal dunes, and a canal with river eels, it is a sanctuary for endemic and migratory birds and other wildlife. There are well-marked footpaths, and hides are provided throughout the park for observing the antics of birds such as herons, shags, cormorants, ducks and egrets. The greater flamingo is a frequent visitor from July through to September. Andratx Experience a seafaring expedition with a local fisherman Visitors to Majorca can now enjoy a spot of fishing in a traditional vessel with authentic local fishermen. Many island departure points are provided with various sailing trips offered along Majorca's coastline. In Andratx, fishermen brothers, Bruno and Gori Bort, take paying guests out to sea to observe their method of fishing, also offering a warm rice dish as part of the experience. Meanwhile, fishermen at other ports offer visitors the chance to try their hand at fishing, or to go for snorkelling sails with the chance to see dolphins on the way. Children are also welcome at a discounted rate. Insider's tip: It's essential to bring comfy shoes, sun cream and bottled water during the summer months. How we choose Every attraction and activity in this curated list has been tried and tested by our destination expert, to provide you with their insider perspective. We cover a range of budgets and styles, from world-class museums to family-friendly theme parks – to best suit every type of traveller. We update this list regularly to keep up with the latest openings and provide up to date recommendations. Since settling in Sóller 22 years ago, Anna has written seven travel titles and three crime novels based in Majorca, offering a brilliant excuse to explore the island. You'll most likely find her climbing a Tramuntana peak or running on the beach.
Yahoo
14-04-2025
- Yahoo
Tourists slammed by environmental group for causing harm to Spain's highest peak
A Canary Islands environmentalist group has warned that visitors are harming Tenerife's Teide National Park by straying off-trail and climbing over the protected terrain. The Unesco Heritage site of Teide National Park features the Teide-Pico Viejo stratovolcano that, at 3,718m, is the highest peak in Spanish territory, making for a spectacular view of its volcanic landscape and towering height. Tourists to Tenerife, a popular holiday destination, will often visit this giant natural landmark, home to flora and fauna and small creatures like the Tenerife lizard, that are unique to the area. Tenerife's tourist board says that the Teide National Park is the most visited national park in Europe, welcoming some three million visitors a year. However, Telesforo Bravo–Juan Coello Foundation, a Canarian environmentalist and scientific group, has criticised the island's council for what they believe to be an 'unsustainable' management of the park. Writing in a social media post on Sunday, 13 April, Jaime Coello Bravo, the director of the Telesforo Bravo–Juan Coello Foundation said that Teide National Park 'hurts'. Mr Bravo called out the Cabildo de Tenerife (Tenerife Island Council) for continuing 'to allow and promote the massification and destruction of what they themselves call, 'the crown jewel of the protected natural spaces of Tenerife'.' 'If this is the crown jewel. How will the other spaces be? We know because most are equal or worse,' he continued. 'It is a scandal and a shame the lack of response, inaction and complicity with an unsustainable situation.' Mr Bravo also posted pictures and videos of a car park of visitors, people seen climbing up the volcanic rock formations and taking pictures, and a woman appearing to pick up stones. 'In the pictures, you can appreciate how the Minas de San José were the other day,' he said. 'The overcrowding of vehicles is indescribable.' 'People getting in off-path and climbing everywhere, too. In addition, we can see people selecting rocks and taking them off-path in another area of the Park, in front of [Mount] Guajara.' The environmentalist's criticism comes days after the Cabildo de Tenerife announced an online reservation system for certain, more advanced trails around the national park. The council opened access on foot to the trails leading to the peak of Teide National Park for mountain federations and authorised tourism professionals and companies that must meet a series of requirements such as a permit and certain equipment. Access will be permitted to those registered in the Canary Islands Government's Tourism Registry under the headings of hiking, mountaineering, and/or trekking activities, with accredited guides with the necessary qualifications. The online reservation system has been set up 'in order to preserve the natural environment and control the influx of people.' The Independent has contacted Telesforo Bravo–Juan Coello Foundation and Cabildo de Tenerife for comment.
The Independent
14-04-2025
- The Independent
Tourists slammed by environmental group for causing harm to Spain's highest peak
A Canarian environmentalist group has warned that visitors are harming Tenerife 's Teide National Park by straying off-path and climbing over the protected terrain. The Unesco Heritage site of Teide National Park features the Teide-Pico Viejo stratovolcano that, at 3,718 m, is the highest peak in Spanish territory, making for a spectacular view of its volcanic landscape and towering height. Tourists to Tenerife, a popular holiday destination due to its large selection of hotel resorts and beaches, will often visit this giant natural landmark, home to flora and fauna and small creatures like the Tenerife lizard, that are unique to the area. Tenerife's tourist board says that the Teide National Park is the most visited national park in Europe, welcoming some three million visitors a year. However, Telesforo Bravo–Juan Coello Foundation, a Canarian environmentalist and scientific group, has criticised the island's council for what they believe to be an 'unsustainable' management of the park. Writing in a social media post on Sunday, 13 April, Jaime Coello Bravo, the director of the Telesforo Bravo–Juan Coello Foundation said that Teide National Park 'hurts'. Mr Bravo called out the Cabildo de Tenerife (Tenerife Island Council) for continuing 'to allow and promote the massification and destruction of what they themselves call, 'the crown jewel of the protected natural spaces of Tenerife'.' 'If this is the crown jewel. How will the other spaces be? We know because most are equal or worse,' he continued. 'It is a scandal and a shame the lack of response, inaction and complicity with an unsustainable situation.' Mr Bravo also posted pictures and videos of a car park of visitors, people seen climbing up the volcanic rock formations and taking pictures, and a woman appearing to pick up stones. 'In the pictures, you can appreciate how the Minas de San José were the other day,' he said. 'The overcrowding of vehicles is indescribable.' 'People getting in off-path and climbing everywhere, too. In addition, we can see people selecting rocks and taking them off-path in another area of the Park, in front of [Mount] Guajara.' The environmentalist's criticism comes days after the Cabildo de Tenerife announced an online reservation system for certain, more advanced trails around the national park. The council opened access on foot to the trials leading to the peak of Teide National Park for mountain federations and authorised tourism professionals and companies that must meet a series of requirements such as a permit and certain equipment. Access will be permitted to those registered in the Canary Islands Government's Tourism Registry under the headings of hiking, mountaineering, and/or trekking activities, with accredited guides with the necessary qualifications. The online reservation system has been set up 'in order to preserve the natural environment and control the influx of people.'
