Early forecasts fade as Holy Week tourism slows amid chilly weather
Two weeks earlier, industry groups spoke of a revenue forecast about 10 percent higher than the previous year and growth rates that looked even more promising than the pre-pandemic era. Yet, after Holy Week wrapped up across most Spanish regions, the balance has swung decisively in the opposite direction. Hostelería de España, the national association representing restaurants, bars, cafes, and pubs, reported on Monday that the first major tourist period of the year closed well below expectations.
“Gross weather in all regions prevented business figures from reaching the previously known levels, let alone the targeted 10 percent growth”, explained José Luis Yzuel, president of the association. “It is true that some venues, especially those with large dining rooms, function as refuges, but in general, across coastal and inland areas, bad weather affected this Holy Week.”
In a statement, Hostelería de España noted that the unusually strong cold front, nicknamed Nelson, translated into cancellations, last‑minute reservations shortages, and a lower turnout. “This breaks the positive trend seen in the first quarter, which had been propelled by international tourism and renewed domestic demand confidence,” the organization explained.
According to the snapshot, smaller venues with terraces and those located on the coast, where climate has a larger impact, bore the brunt. By contrast, larger indoor spaces and areas tied to urban, cultural, and religious tourism fared much better.
The ski and mountain tourism segment also showed resilience, particularly in Catalonia. This Monday, ski and mountain resorts operated by FGC (La Molina, Vall de Núria, Vallter, Espot Esquí, Port Ainé, and Boí Taüll) reported a Santa Week that was “quite active meteorologically” and ended with solid results. The Pallars region in Lleida highlighted strong visitor numbers and full to near full hotel occupancy near the slopes.
Lower income, higher spending
The challenge for coastal businesses or areas with a negative holiday sentiment is that, on top of reduced revenue, there is greater pressure on cash flow. It’s important to note that the hospitality sector typically begins recruitment campaigns before Holy Week to prepare for warmer months and summer. That means this week of lower-than-expected business leaves many establishments with financial needs amplified by staffing levels expected for peak season. “They face a tougher month ahead,” acknowledged Yzuel, while expressing hope that the May long weekend may help offset some of the shortfall.
Despite the disruption to the otherwise positive trajectory in early-year activity, the association cautions that the coming months are expected to restore the earlier momentum as climate stability returns and demand remains firm, supported by domestic and international travelers alike.
In summary, the Holy Week period highlighted the dichotomy within the sector: coastal small venues and tourist‑heavy sea-facing towns faced revenue headwinds, while larger, inland, and culturally oriented destinations showed notable resilience. The ski and mountain regions benefited from favorable activity in certain pockets, illustrating how regional dynamics drive outcomes during seasonal holidays. Industry observers and operators await a smoother spring and early summer as weather normalizes and travel confidence continues to rebound.
[Source: Hostelería de España and regional tourism reports]