Balearic Islands tighten camper van rules amid rental crisis

On June 13, 2026, a fire broke out in Plasencia, Spain, very close to caravans used by fairground workers. The flames threatened the trailers serving as temporary accommodation. Details on casualties and damage are being clarified.

Javier González, a 69-year-old Argentine emigrant, has lived in a 6–7 square meter motorhome on Mallorca for five years. He moved to the island 25 years ago to work as a delivery driver and now cannot afford rental housing. González criticizes Palma Mayor Jaime Martínez's policy, which he says denies registration and pushes motorhome residents out of the city. He notes that many locals, including hospital workers, are forced to live in motorhomes due to rent increases up to 1,500 euros.

The 2025 Tour de France (4–26 July) starts in Barcelona and finishes in Paris. The route covers 21 stages and 3333 km, including eight mountain stages. Motorhome owners are advised to select a few stages in advance, arrive a day early for mountain stages, and use public transport in cities. Roads close well before the cyclists pass, and parking on popular climbs fills up days ahead.

Javier González, a 69-year-old pensioner, has lived in a motorhome on Mallorca for five years due to unaffordable rents. He claims that children and grandchildren of locals will end up living in caravans as rental prices soar. González criticizes Palma's mayor for eviction policies, noting that many working people cannot afford housing.

Amy, a 40-year-old mother of five from the UK, switched to homeschooling after the COVID-19 pandemic and began traveling Europe in a caravan. The family plans to buy land in Spain or Portugal for self-sufficient farming. Amy says this lifestyle lets children learn through their interests and spend time outdoors.

In the Spanish municipality of Relleu (Alicante), a suspended walkway over the reservoir gorge has been operating since 2022, often compared to the 'Caminito del Rey'. The route features wooden planks up to 60 meters high, a glass-floor section, and several viewpoints. For campervan travelers, free overnight spots are available near the CV-778 road and the Partida Castell area, which offers picnic tables and drinking water. Entrance to the walkway costs €3.50, free for local residents.