During the recent Christmas and New Year holidays, Garrotxa‘s rural tourist accommodations achieved an impressive 95% occupancy rate, highlighting the region’s growing appeal among travelers seeking a serene getaway.Hotels and guesthouses also performed well, reaching 70% occupancy, while campsites saw a more modest 50%. The influx of visitors, primarily families and couples from Barcelona and other Catalan areas, reflects a notable shift in tourism trends, with longer stays of two too four nights becoming increasingly common.Gemma Canalias, president of Turisme Garrotxa, noted that the region’s diverse holiday activities played a significant role in attracting tourists, contributing to a vibrant holiday season for local businesses.
Q&A: insights on the Booming Rural tourism in Garrotxa During the Holidays
Interviewer: As an editor at Time.news, I’ve noticed a remarkable trend in rural tourism, particularly during the recent Christmas and New Year holidays in Garrotxa. Joining me today to delve deeper into this phenomenon is Gemma Canalias, president of Turisme Garrotxa. Gemma, thank you for being here!
Gemma Canalias: Thank you for having me! It’s great to discuss the exciting developments in Garrotxa’s tourism sector.
Interviewer: The numbers speak volumes—95% occupancy in rural accommodations is remarkable. What do you think has contributed to this surge in popularity among travelers?
gemma Canalias: Absolutely, the impressive 95% occupancy rate in rural tourist accommodations showcases Garrotxa’s growing appeal. Many travelers are looking for a serene getaway, especially families and couples from Barcelona and other Catalan areas. The peaceful environment of Garrotxa, combined with our wide range of holiday activities, certainly makes it an attractive destination. The influx reflects a shift in tourism trends towards longer stays of two to four nights, wich offers visitors a chance to truly unwind.
Interviewer: With hotels and guesthouses also performing strongly at 70% occupancy, what role do you think local businesses played in this holiday season’s success?
Gemma Canalias: Local businesses have been pivotal in creating a vibrant holiday atmosphere. We collaborated to enhance the visitor experience by offering unique, local holiday activities. From traditional markets to guided nature walks, we ensured there was something for everyone. This not only attracted visitors but also supported local economies, giving businesses the holiday boost they needed.
Interviewer: That’s insightful! For those interested in visiting Garrotxa, what types of activities can they expect?
Gemma Canalias: Garrotxa is rich in diverse holiday activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking in the lovely volcanic landscapes, exploring quaint medieval villages, and participating in eco-pleasant experiences. Our culinary scene is also vibrant, with local dishes that highlight Catalonia’s gastronomic heritage. We encourage travelers to engage with our cultural offerings, which enhance the overall experience of staying in our wonderful region.
Interviewer: The shift in tourism preferences is notable. From your outlook, how can travel businesses in Garrotxa leverage this trend of longer stays?
Gemma Canalias: Travel businesses shoudl focus on tailoring packages that cater to longer stays. Offering discounts for extended bookings or curating experiences that encourage guests to explore the region over several days can make a significant difference. Additionally, providing amenities that enhance comfort and leisure, such as family-friendly accommodations or activities that bond couples, will help in capturing this evolving traveler demographic.
Interviewer: Great advice! Before we wrap up, what future trends do you foresee for Garrotxa’s tourism industry?
Gemma canalias: We anticipate continued growth in rural tourism as more individuals seek out tranquil escapes. Sustainability will also play a critical role as travelers become increasingly conscious of their environmental footprint. Therefore, enhancing eco-tourism initiatives and preserving the region’s natural beauty will be paramount.Our goal at Turisme Garrotxa is to foster a tourism culture that balances economic needs with environmental stewardship.
Interviewer: Thank you, Gemma, for sharing these valuable insights on Garrotxa’s tourism landscape. It’s clear that this region is on the rise and offers a remarkable experience for those looking to escape the bustle of city life.
Gemma Canalias: Thank you! I hope more travelers consider Garrotxa as their destination for a peaceful and enriching getaway.