For many decades, the travel calendar has been rigidly set – holidays were planned for either the summer or winter period with very little else in between. But changes in the climate, more flexible working arrangements and a growing fear of overtourism have shattered that pattern forever.
Data gathered by various tourist boards and tour operators indicates a growth in ‘shoulder season travel’ – getaways at the tail-ends of popular peak booking periods. Many travellers to Europe are opting for milder months in spring (March/April) and autumn (September/October), when fewer tourists make it possible to enjoy more authentic experiences.
The Advantage Travel Partnership, a global consortium of independent tour operators, reports shoulder season bookings were up 20% in 2025 compared to the previous year.
At Yellowwood, the Canary Islands of Tenerife, La Palma and La Gomera are some of our favourite destinations to visit in spring – and word is spreading. Manuel Butler, Director of the Spanish Tourist Office UK, describes off-peak travel as a “mega trend”.
An ‘Eternal Spring’ subtropical climate, with pleasant temperatures of around 22-23°C, is ideally suited to hiking across volcanic landscapes, along mountainous coastlines and through lush green prehistoric forests invigorated by winter rains. Beaches are less busy, but many restaurants and facilities remain open – often at more affordable price points.
Travel from mid-April for a chance to witness the Lyrids meteor shower. The dark skies of Tenerife’s Teide National Park are a perfect canvas for the glowing trails which have been known to reach up to 100 per hour.
