2024-12-08 12:51:00
The snowfalls of the last few hours are the best news of the weekend puríssima for the tourism sector of the Pyrenees, which includes a Christmas campaign and a “very good” ski season. The vice-president of the Tourist Board of the Provincial Council of Lleida, Juan Antonio Serrano, explained to ACN that with snow forecasts and current booking data, occupancy between December 26 and January 3 can be between 85% and 90%. %. “For us snow is life”he exclaimed. Conversely, even if in the days of the Puríssima bridge we coudl not count on this claim – the ski resorts have not yet been able to open -, the sector has met expectations and employment has reached 70%
“We are very satisfied and this snowfall gives us peace of mind.” This is how Serrano sums up the sensations left in the Pyrenees at the end of the puríssima weekend. Despite the ski resorts being closed, it was possible to reach the expected employment levels and the expectations generated by the latest snowfalls suggest a good future for the sector this season.
Indeed, ski resorts could open the slopes from next weekend, even if the dates are not yet official. “They will do it as soon as possible,” Serrano said. In this sense, the vice-president of the Board of Trustees admitted that “the snow conditions” suggest an imminent opening: “If there is a patch of snow in Vielha, at 2,000 meters there must be a considerable thickness” .
Meanwhile, nature, culture and gastronomy were the main attractions of this long Puríssima weekend, which ended with a “proper” occupation. By sector,hotels had an occupancy rate of between 60% and 70% in the Pyrenees,while in the Terres de Lleida it was around 60%. 75% of bungalow places in campsites and agritourisms are occupied.
what caused it, however, was the snow that fell in the last few hours postcard images, with families making thier first snowmen of the season or taking their first sleigh rides. Though, there were also those who chose to “early return” home and avoid the possible traffic collapses that could occur in the afternoon.
Juan Antonio Serrano specified that there are families who have started the operation of leaving from 10 in the morning where the situation is wholly “normal” in the context of a snowfall: “Maybe there is a little more withholding of the account and it’s slower.” Serrano also underlined that the snowfall did not cause any major accidents because it had been announced and “people came more prepared”.
What are the predicted impacts of the snowfalls on the ski season in the Pyrenees?
Interview with Juan Antonio Serrano: The Positive Impact of Recent Snowfalls on pyrenees Tourism
Editor: Welcome, Juan Antonio Serrano, vice-president of the Tourist Board of the provincial Council of Lleida. It’s great to have you with us today. The recent snowfalls in the Pyrenees have been a hot topic. Can you elaborate on how these snow conditions are shaping the tourism landscape?
Serrano: Thank you for having me. Indeed, the recent snowfalls are fantastic news for our tourism sector. with the Christmas campaign approaching adn the prospects for a “vrey good” ski season ahead, we’re optimistic. We expect occupancy rates to be between 85% and 90% between December 26 and January 3, thanks to the snowfall.
Editor: That’s notable! You mentioned that even without the ski resorts being open during the Puríssima bridge days, the sector managed to meet expectations. What contributed to that success?
Serrano: We are delighted to report that employment levels reached 70% during the Puríssima weekend, despite the ski resorts not operating yet. The combination of nature, culture, and gastronomy as attractions during this time was crucial. Many visitors still enjoyed the gorgeous scenery and local experiences, and that really helped maintain our tourism activity.
Editor: It’s interesting to hear how diverse attractions can sustain interest. With the ski resorts possibly opening soon, how do you assess the current snow conditions?
Serrano: The snow conditions we have now are quite favorable. we expect the ski slopes to open from next weekend, contingent upon official announcements. When there’s snow in Vielha at 2,000 meters, we anticipate a significant snowpack, which is essential for skiing and snowboarding.
Editor: Many families are eager to make the most of the snowy conditions. What recommendations do you have for those planning to visit the Pyrenees as the ski season kicks off?
Serrano: I recommend that families prepare early. We have seen families starting to leave for home to avoid potential traffic congestions, which can happen during peak snow conditions. Being mindful of weather updates and traveling at times when the roads are less crowded is always a good practice.
Editor: That’s valuable advice. How did the snowfall affect local traffic and safety during the recent weekend?
Serrano: Fortunately, there were no significant accidents reported. Traffic conditions were manageable as the snowfall was anticipated, allowing peopel to adjust their travel plans accordingly.Being well-prepared is key, especially during the winter months.
Editor: Before we conclude, what does the future hold for the tourism sector in the Pyrenees this winter? What additional strategies are in place to attract visitors?
Serrano: We are focusing on promoting a holistic experience that includes skiing, local cultures, and gastronomy. As we progress through the winter season, we will continuously monitor the snow conditions and visitor feedback to enhance our offerings. Our goal is to ensure a memorable experience for every visitor and boost our economy through sustainable tourism.
Editor: It sounds like an exciting season ahead for tourism in the Pyrenees. Thank you, Juan Antonio, for sharing these insights with us today.
Serrano: Thank you for having me! I encourage everyone to experience the beauty of the Pyrenees this winter.
Keywords: Pyrenees tourism, ski season, snowfalls, Tourist Board Lleida, winter travel advice, family activities in Pyrenees, local culture and gastronomy.
