“Allotjaments singulars”: the key to a sustainable rental market in Catalunya?

“ALLOTJAMENTS SINGULARS”

Imagine spending the night in a treehouse, an adapted cave, or a traditional hut in the Ebro Delta. It may seem like a fantasy, but it’s a reality that's taking hold in Catalonia under the concept of Singular Tourist Accommodations. But these spaces, beyond offering unforgettable experiences, could be the answer to one of the biggest tensions of our time: the housing rental market crisis.

As cities struggle to balance the demand for tourist accommodations with the need for permanent housing, Singular Tourist Accommodations are emerging as an alternative that does not compete with the conventional rental market. But could this be the solution we've been looking for to ease the pressure on rental prices and ensure our communities are sustainable?

What Are Singular Tourist Accommodations?

Singular Tourist Accommodations are spaces that stand out for their unique character, whether due to their architecture, location, or history. According to Catalonia's Decree 75/2020 on tourism, these accommodations are defined as those that offer temporary lodging in exchange for financial compensation but do not fit into any traditional tourist accommodation categories.

They can include, for example, treehouses, huts like those in the Ebro Delta, or caves, among others. It is important to note that these accommodations must be located outside vehicles, aircraft, boats, or conventional buildings, and must meet minimum technical requirements, such as a maximum capacity of six places per accommodation, adequate hygiene conditions, and immediate availability.

The Key Factor: Impact on the Rental Market

In a previous blog post, we analyzed the growing tension in the rental market, where the increased demand for properties destined for tourist rentals has raised concerns among residents and municipalities. This situation has led to a reduction in the availability of residential rentals and a rise in prices, particularly affecting those seeking permanent housing.

In this context, Singular Tourist Accommodations emerge as an ideal solution that not only offers a unique tourist experience but also avoids contributing to this tension in the rental market. Unlike apartments and houses that could be used for conventional rental, these accommodations occupy spaces that would not be used for regular housing. This means they do not displace residents or reduce the available rental supply.

The Challenge: Implementation and Awareness at the Municipal Level

Despite the potential of this new typology, one of the main challenges is the lack of knowledge and awareness about Singular Tourist Accommodations at the municipal level. Many local councils still do not fully understand this figure and its positive impact on their municipalities. This, coupled with the absence of clear guidelines for implementation, can hinder their development and widespread adoption.

According to Decree 75/2020, municipalities in Catalonia have the authority to regulate these accommodations within their jurisdiction, defining minimum requirements and ensuring compliance with applicable sectoral regulations. However, while this regulatory flexibility is an opportunity, it also creates an urgent need for local authorities to actively engage in their promotion and regulation.

A Responsible Solution for the Future

At a time when the rental market is under increasing pressure, Singular Tourist Accommodations offer an alternative that not only enriches the tourism offer but also respects and protects the conventional rental market. At Els Majordoms, we firmly believe that this typology can contribute to a more sustainable and balanced tourism development, benefiting both tourists and residents.

We also encourage municipalities to explore and effectively implement this figure, recognizing its potential to boost local tourism without jeopardizing housing availability. We are here to help you bring your project to life and offer your guests an unforgettable experience while contributing to a more sustainable and balanced future for our communities.