At The Osados, we firmly believe that adventure and respect for the environment should always go hand in hand. It is not simply a philosophy; it is the foundation of every cycling tourism route we design. That is why we are immensely proud of our involvement in and commitment to the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism (ECST), a key initiative dedicated to preserving the natural and cultural heritage of Europe’s protected areas.
The European Charter for Sustainable Tourism is much more than a simple label; it is both a methodology and a commitment. Developed by the EUROPARC Federation, it serves as a management tool to promote tourism that is more respectful of both the environment and local communities within protected natural areas.
It is based on three fundamental pillars:
Minimising the negative impact of tourism activities on the environment and biodiversity.
Contributing to the well-being of communities living within and around protected areas by supporting local employment and encouraging the use of local products and services.
Working closely with protected area managers, local businesses, residents and visitors to achieve shared sustainability goals.
For a company such as The Osados, joining the ECST means undergoing a rigorous process of evaluation and continuous improvement, demonstrating a genuine commitment to these principles. It is not a certification that is obtained once and kept forever; rather, it is an ongoing journey of learning, development and responsible action.
The Sierra Espuña Regional Park, where The Osados delivers many of its cycling tourism experiences, is a clear example of how a protected area can manage tourism development in a sustainable way.
Sierra Espuña was one of the pioneering protected areas in Spain to implement the ECST, working tirelessly to balance conservation with visitor enjoyment and local economic development.
The synergy between the Park’s management team and the businesses operating within its territory is essential. For us, this means adapting our routes and operations to the Park’s conservation guidelines, participating in its initiatives and contributing to its long-term vision. It is an ongoing dialogue that ensures our rides today do not compromise the beauty of tomorrow.
At The Osados, our commitment to the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism is reflected in practical actions that form part of our company’s DNA.
We design itineraries that respect marked trails, avoiding sensitive areas and minimising erosion. Our guides are trained to educate participants about the importance of staying on designated paths and respecting local flora and fauna.
We actively promote a “leave no trace” policy. On every outing, we implement a waste separation and management protocol, encouraging cyclists to take away everything they bring with them and to choose reusable alternatives whenever possible.
We encourage participants to share transport whenever possible in order to reduce emissions, and we prioritise accessible meeting points whenever feasible.
We collaborate with businesses and suppliers from the municipalities surrounding Sierra Espuña, including Totana and Alhama. This includes recommending local accommodation, purchasing artisan products and promoting local gastronomy, directly contributing to the economic well-being of local communities.
For more information, visitors can explore the Territorio Sierra Espuña website, where they will find a wide range of local products produced within the park and its surrounding area.
We incorporate sustainability messages into all our communications, from the information provided before each route to the explanations given by our guides throughout the journey. We want every cyclist not only to enjoy the landscape, but also to become an ambassador for conservation.
We continually assess the impact of our activities through internal procedures, such as monitoring trail conditions and reviewing post-route waste management practices, always seeking new ways to improve and adapt.
For The Osados, the ECST is more than an accreditation; it is a guide, a commitment and a source of pride.
We firmly believe that cycling tourism can be a powerful force for conservation and sustainable development. By choosing The Osados, you are not only choosing an unforgettable adventure, but also an experience that protects and values the natural treasure that is Sierra Espuña.
We design cycling experiences so you can enjoy the adventure at your own pace.
Whether you love riding on the road, want to try an e-bike, or are looking for a great group activity, we have the route that’s right for you.
Contáctanos para personalizar tu viaje o resolver cualquier duda de tu próxima ruta.
Contact us to personalise your trip or resolve any queries about your next route.
