Spain cracks down on binge-drinking in Magaluf and Ibiza with new laws banning pub crawls and happy hours

January 18, 2020 at 4:10 a.m.

Tourists walk shouting at Punta Ballena street in Magaluf, on the Spanish Balearic island of Mallorca, Spain, August 11, 2018. REUTERS/Enrique Calvo — New laws are cracking down on binge-drinking in three tourist hotspots on Spain's Balearic Islands (Picture: REUTERS/Enrique Calvo)

The days of pub crawls and happy hours are over in some of the most popular tourist hotspots on Spain’s Balearic Islands as part of a crackdown on binge-drinking.

The islands’ regional government has passed a law banning the organisation or promotion of pub crawls as well as ‘open bars’ and ‘happy hours’ in what it claims is the first law of its kind in Europe.

The laws will cover Magaluf on Majorca, the so-called ‘West End’ in Ibiza and a stretch of Majorca’s capital Palma, for the next five years.

The popularity of the areas for alcohol-fuelled holidays by young tourists from across Europe has led to a backlash, with graffiti saying ‘Tourists go home’ appearing in some areas.

MAGALUF, SPAIN - JUNE 30: Tourists visit the popular Punta Ballena strip on June 30, 2019 in Magaluf, Spain. Magaluf, where most of the nightclubs and bars are located, is one of the main destinations for British tourists during the summer season. (Photo by Clara Margais/Getty Images) — The new laws ban pub crawls and happy hours, as well as trips on party boats (Picture: Clara Margais/Getty Images)

The new law bans ‘balconing’ - jumping from hotel balconies into swimming pools - throughout the Mediterranean islands which has led to injuries and several deaths.

Those caught doing it now will have to leave their hotel and could face fines.

Irish teenager ‘raped by two men in Magaluf after being kicked out of a brothel’

The new laws also freeze licences for ‘party boats’ - another popular pastime for tourists - and bans them from picking up or dropping off tourists in the three areas.

It also bans alcohol-selling machines and shops selling alcohol in the areas will have to close between 8.30pm and 7am.

Fines for those who break the new laws could range from 6,000 euros (£5,100) to 600,000 euros (£510,000).

Majorca and Ibiza are popular tourist destinations with young people from across Europe, particularly Britain, Germany and Ireland.

The party-fuelled atmosphere has often led to injury or incident, and understandably leaves some parents worried, including one mum whose list of rules for her 18-year-old son’s Magaluf holiday went viral.

The regional government said the law is the first of its kind and is hoped to improve the quality of tourism on the islands and benefit both tourists and residents.