Rising cases of COVID in the Balearic islands are mainly among the under 30s, according to the Spanish Tourist Office.

UK director Javier Piñanes said that despite the sudden increase, hospitals in the islands are not under pressure.

There have been no fatalities reported due to COVID in the last seven days, he said, adding that there are ‘strict safety and hygiene processes and measures in place’.

UK Transport Secretary Grant Shapps announced yesterday that the Balearics will move from the green travel list to amber on Monday, meaning returning holidaymakers over 18 who haven’t been vaccinated will need to self-isolate at home for up to 10 days.

In a statement issued last night, Mr Piñanes said: “We must respect the decision from the British government. We would highlight however that, according to Spain’s Ministry of Health, in the Balearic Islands, 3.85% of hospital beds are COVID related (based on data published on 13 July).

“The majority of new cases are among younger age groups, specifically 12 to 19 and 20 to 29 year olds and despite the increasing COVID rates, the hospitals in the Balearic Island archipelago are not under pressure.The Balearic Islands continue to be a safe tourism destination that strictly adhere to safety protocols that have been established by the authorities.  

“British visitors remain welcome in the Balearic Islands and Spain.”

Minister of Tourism for the Balearic Islands Iago Negueruela said: “We must respect the decision of the UK government to move the Balearic Islands to the amber list.

“Our tourism sector has already welcomed many British tourists back to the islands over the last few weeks and the Balearic Islands remain open.  Travel is different this summer and we would like to continue encouraging visitors to travel responsibly, follow the local rules and take all the necessary steps to have a safe holiday. 

“We have very sophisticated infrastructure in the Balearic Islands and our health systems and hospitals are not under pressure. The rise in infections is predominantly amongst young people and for the vast majority, there are no harmful symptoms. Likewise, many measures and protocols are in place to ensure that our visitors can have a safe and enjoyable holiday. 

“We are pleased that from Monday, fully vaccinated Britons, which represents almost 35 million people, will be able to travel to the islands without the need to quarantine on their return. We continue to welcome our British visitors.”