The Birth of the Botijo Trains

Alicante, with its golden beaches and vibrant culture, owes much of its early tourism boom to one man: Ramiro Mestre Martínez. Often considered Spain’s first travel agent, Mestre pioneered the concept of leisure travel for the masses, making Alicante a beloved destination for thousands. His brainchild, the “botijo trains,” ferried sun-seekers from Madrid to Alicante, laying the groundwork for the thriving tourism industry we see today.

A Visionary’s Journey

Ramiro Mestre Martínez was born in Madrid in 1847. A journalist and writer, Mestre’s passion for travel and storytelling led him to promote Alicante fervently. His initiative began in 1893 when he organized the first of many annual train excursions from Madrid to Alicante. These “botijo trains” earned their name from the earthenware water jugs, or botijos, that passengers carried to combat the stifling heat during the 14-hour journey. Far from the comfort of modern travel, these trips were long, dusty, and cramped, yet they were filled with a sense of camaraderie and excitement. Passengers would pass the time singing, playing cards, and even fashioning makeshift coat hooks out of nails and stones.

The Impact on Alicante

The impact of these journeys on Alicante was profound. Mestre’s efforts brought an estimated 30,000 tourists to the city, earning him the title of “Hijo Adoptivo de Alicante” (Adopted son of Alicante) in 1898. His promotional writings in the newspaper “La Correspondencia de España” extolled the virtues of Alicante’s beaches, climate, and festive atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination.

Mestre’s Recognition and Legacy

Despite his significant contributions, Mestre’s recognition within Alicante has been somewhat inconsistent. In 1913, the city council decided to honour him by naming a street after him. However, it took 14 years for this to happen, and the street was eventually swallowed up by the expansion of Plaza San Cristóbal, leaving only a sign at number 7 as a silent testament to his legacy, which you can still see today.

The Arrival Experience

Imagine the awe of those early travellers as they disembarked from the train, greeted by the sight of swaying palm trees and the vast expanse of the Mediterranean Sea. For many, it was their first glimpse of the seaside, a dazzling contrast to the arid landscapes of the Spanish interior. The vibrant colours, the warmth of the sun, and the salty sea air would have been a sensory revelation, marking the beginning of a treasured holiday.

Connectivity and Growth

It’s interesting to note how well connected Alicante was to smaller towns around the region, such as Novelda with its spa retreats. Travelling to nearby attractions like Guadalest and Las Fuentes del Algar was relatively easy, providing tourists with diverse experiences in the region. As the tourism product grew, so did the number of hotels and balnearios, the bathing platforms that lined the beaches. Seeing old posters from that era, promoting Alicante as a year-round destination even in 1909, is a testament to the city’s long-standing appeal.

Evolving Tourist Needs

As the years went on, tourists’ needs evolved. No longer was a simple dip in the sea enough. Visitors began to demand restaurants and entertainment. Information on the culinary delights of the region, especially the variety of rice dishes, became an integral part of the tourist experience. Alicante boasts enough rice recipes to offer a different dish every day of the year, showcasing that the local cuisine extends far beyond the famous paella.

Growing Attractions and Famous Visitors

To entertain these new visitors, Alicante began to host grander celebrations of the Hogueras de San Juan, a festival featuring massive bonfires, parades, and fireworks. The festival grew in size and spectacle, becoming a major attraction. Notably, even Queen Isabella II of Spain and the famous writer Hans Christian Andersen visited Alicante, no doubt, drawn by its burgeoning reputation as a vibrant and welcoming seaside town.

A Modern Tourism Boom

Tourism in Alicante and the surrounding region continues to boom now. In the first six months of 2024, the autonomous region saw the highest influx of foreign visitors in its history, even before the peak summer month of August. According to the Regional Ministry of Tourism, over 5.3 million foreign visitors arrived in the first half of 2024, a nearly 20% increase from the same period in 2023. This massive influx also led to a historic economic impact, with tourists spending over 6.4 billion euros, a 28% increase compared to the previous year.

Reflecting on Mestre’s Legacy

In reflecting on Mestre’s legacy, it’s clear that his vision and efforts were foundational in making Alicante the tourist hub it is today. While the botijo trains are a thing of the past, replaced by high-speed rail and budget flights, the spirit of those early excursions lives on in every visitor who arrives in Alicante seeking sun, sea, and a bit of escape. It’s a history worth remembering and celebrating, much like the man who made it all possible.

Find out more on this story and many other stories about the history of Alicante on our self-Guided GPS Audio tour. Available now on Voicemap.me