Mallorca's 'Instagram Cove': They Want the Perfect Photo β and Leave Behind Trash and Feces
Thousands of tourists flock to Mallorca's 'Instagram Cove' for the perfect photo, leading to significant littering issues.
Every summer, over 4,000 tourists visit the picturesque 'Instagram Cove' in Mallorca each day in search of the ideal photograph, disregarding the environmental impact of their visit. Many travelers cross onto the private property of the Oehm family, which has turned into a mess from the litter left behind, including trash and human waste. The situation has escalated to such a level that the Oehms have become local advocates calling for a managed solution to the excessive tourist influx.
Recently, calls for action received widespread attention, with the Oehm family facing backlash in international media, especially the British tabloids. Headlines accused them of trying to block access to this Instagram-famous spot by erecting a fence to deter visitors. However, Hans-Peter Oehm clarified that their intention was not to shut the cove off but to work with authorities for a sustainable approach to tourism that protects the local environment while allowing regulated access for visitors.
The ongoing issues surrounding the Instagram Cove highlight a deeper conflict between tourism's economic benefits and the environmental sustainability of popular destinations. Seasonal surges of visitors have become common in many tourist spots, raising concerns about their ecological footprints. As the debate continues, the Oehms hope to initiate a dialogue for long-term solutions that will meet the needs of both tourists and local residents.