Tourism sector sees strong occupancy for bank holiday weekend despite lack of snow 

The tourism sector across Catalonia anticipates high occupancy rates during this weekend's bank holiday.

The early December holiday, known as the 'Puríssima,' offers an excellent opportunity for a short weekend escape.

It is celebrated across Spain due to Constitution Day on December 6 and the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8.

However, while occupancy rates are strong this year, they are "slightly lower" than during similar holidays in previous years at ski resorts. 

A lack of snow in the Catalan Pyrenees has prevented ski resorts from opening, impacting typical travel destinations.

For the time being, Baqueira Beret and Port del Comte have confirmed that they will not be able to open their ski resorts, an unprecedented situation for this time of year.

In the Lleida Pyrenees, where this holiday often brings near-full occupancy, this year’s rate is at 70%.

In response to the snow shortage, Lleida's Tourism Department has promoted "autumn tourism" to attract visitors.

The sector remains optimistic about the coming weeks. A weather shift is expected next week, bringing a cold wave and snow to lower altitudes, which could kickstart the ski season and boost tourism.

Another factor contributing to slightly lower occupancy this year is the timing of the holiday.

Falling on a Friday and Sunday, the weekend is just three days long. In years when the holiday spans midweek, allowing for a five-day break, occupancy tends to be higher.

Despite the absence of snow, travelers have sought alternative destinations.

In Osona county, central Catalonia, occupancy is expected to reach 100%, bolstered by the Espinelves Christmas Tree Fair and the Vic Medieval Market.

In the inland areas of Girona, occupancy is forecast at 90%, particularly in rural accommodations, which are seeing strong demand from visitors hailing mainly from Barcelona, interior Catalonia, and Tarragona.