Tenerife’s ITER Bioclimatic Houses Set to Reopen, Paving the Way for Sustainable Tourism

Tenerife is preparing for the much-anticipated reopening of its ITER Bioclimatic Houses, a move that underscores the island’s commitment to sustainable tourism and scientific advancement. This initiative not only aims to attract eco-conscious travelers but also seeks to position Tenerife as a leader in innovative, environmentally friendly practices.

New Management and Strategic Vision

The management of the 24 Bioclimatic Houses, located in the picturesque southern region of Tenerife, has recently been entrusted to new companies by the Cabildo of Tenerife, facilitated through the Technological Institute of Renewable Energies (ITER). This strategic transition is designed to enhance the facilities’ emphasis on scientific tourism, sustainability, and innovation. With a total capacity to host 119 guests, the reopening marks a significant milestone, with the first houses expected to welcome visitors by April or May 2026, following a comprehensive six-month preparation period.

This new management approach aims to revitalize the Bioclimatic Houses, ensuring they not only serve as accommodations but also as educational hubs that promote sustainable practices. The focus on scientific tourism is particularly noteworthy, as it aligns with global trends that favor eco-friendly travel options.

Bridging Science and Tourism

Rosa Dávila, the President of the Cabildo, emphasized that the reopening is a testament to Tenerife’s commitment to a model that harmonizes sustainable development with social welfare and research. “We aim to project a greener, smarter, and more competitive Tenerife,” she stated, highlighting the critical role of sustainability and innovation in the island’s ongoing transformation.

Juan José Martínez, the Innovation Councillor, elaborated on the unique role of the ITER Bioclimatic Houses, describing them as a pioneering space where tourism and scientific research converge. This innovative integration allows for real-time monitoring of various factors, including energy efficiency and thermal comfort. Martínez remarked, “The project illustrates how technology, knowledge, and environmental commitment can be integrated to generate added value for Tenerife.” This synergy not only enhances the visitor experience but also contributes to the broader goals of sustainability and environmental stewardship.

A Center for Research and Education

Each house, recognized as an Emblematic House of Scientific Interest, is equipped with advanced sensors that collect data in real-time. This data collection supports various initiatives, including RENATURMAC and CAMBIOS, which focus on developing green infrastructures and transferring sustainable technologies to other regions, such as Cape Verde and São Tomé and Príncipe. These projects are co-financed by the Interreg MAC 2021–2027 Programme (ERDF), positioning Tenerife as a global leader in applied sustainability.

The initiative also encompasses a range of training programs, workshops, and user analyses, fostering a blend of knowledge transfer and experiential learning aimed at sustainable development. This revitalization effort reinforces ITER as a venue for open scientific experimentation, where innovation and responsible tourism converge to pave the way for a more sustainable future for the islands. By engaging visitors in hands-on learning experiences, the Bioclimatic Houses will not only provide accommodation but also serve as a platform for education on sustainable practices.

Moreover, the integration of real-time data collection enables researchers and visitors alike to gain insights into the effectiveness of various sustainability measures. This data-driven approach will help refine and improve practices, ensuring that Tenerife remains at the forefront of sustainable tourism.

Key points

• The Cabildo of Tenerife has awarded management of the ITER Bioclimatic Houses to new companies.
• The reopening focuses on scientific tourism, sustainability, and innovation.
• The facilities will accommodate a total of 119 guests.
• The first homes are expected to be operational by April or May 2026.
• Real-time data collection will support various sustainability initiatives.
• The project aims to promote responsible tourism and knowledge transfer.