The summer heat might call for a refreshing dip or an ice-cold drink, but water is becoming scarce in some popular holiday spots. Banyalbufar, a town in Mallorca, Spain, has implemented new water-saving measures due to severe drought. This town, despite having only 600 residents, is home to several resorts, including Richard Branson’s luxury Son Bunyola hotel and villas, and welcomes a surge of tourists during the warmer months.
Starting July 15, Banyalbufar will cut off access to the water supply between 11pm and 4pm daily. This means locals and tourists will only have seven hours of water available each day. Furthermore, using drinking water for activities like car and terrace cleaning, refilling swimming pools and water tanks, or watering plants is strictly prohibited.
The town’s water supply has dwindled due to low rainfall across the Balearic Islands. Many councils have implemented measures such as banning swimming pool filling and limiting water consumption per person. While some areas have eased restrictions, Banyalbufar is facing a ‘critical’ water shortage and will maintain these regulations ‘until the situation improves’.
Initially, the town employed water trucks to alleviate the shortage, but the first deputy mayor, Joan Vives, stated that they are running out of funds and cannot sustain the use of trucks indefinitely.
Other areas in Mallorca, including Artà, Algaida, Montuïri, Porreres, and Estellencs, have also imposed water usage limits this year.
If you are planning a trip to Mallorca this summer, it is advisable to contact your travel company or the hotel you booked with for guidance regarding the water restrictions.
