Best Ski Resorts In Spain
Written by Joeri Van Overloop
Spain may not be the first country that comes to mind when thinking about skiing destinations, but it offers some of the best ski resorts in Europe. As someone who loves skiing and has visited various ski resorts in Spain, I can confidently say that the country has a lot to offer in terms of skiing experiences. From the Pyrenees to the Sierra Nevada, Spain has a range of ski resorts that cater to all levels of skiers.
So whether you're a snow enthusiast or simply seeking a unique adventure, get ready to discover the best ski resorts in Spain
1. La Molina – Masella
The oldest ski resort in Spain, La Molina is located in the Girona province of Catalonia, Spain. It is one of the largest Spain ski resorts and is known for its excellent skiing opportunities. The resort boasts of 145 km of slopes and is connected by the Cadí-Moixeró Gondola lift. The lift covers the almost three kilometers that separate the Gondola lift parking from level 2,537 to the Tosa d'Alp in just 20 minutes.
The Masella Ski Resort is perfect for skiers of all levels. Whether you are just starting out or as an advanced skier, you will find something to suit your needs. The resort has marked pistes for beginners, intermediate and advanced skiers. The ski runs are well maintained, and the resort's altitude ensures good skiing conditions throughout the season.
The size of the resort and the number of pistes make it an ideal destination for skiing enthusiasts. The resort is also perfect for families with children. The ski schools in the resort are excellent, and they offer lessons for all levels of skiers.
The lift system in the resort is modern and efficient, ensuring that skiers can spend more time on the slopes and less time waiting in line. The resort also offers a range of other activities, including Nordic skiing, snowboarding, sledging, and ice skating.
In terms of rating, the La Molina Ski Station is highly rated by skiers from around the world. It is particularly popular with advanced skiers who appreciate the challenging pistes and excellent off-piste opportunities.
Contact:
Address: Av. Peu de Pistes, s/n, 17538 Masella, Girona, Spain
Phone: +34 972 14 40 00
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2. Formigal- Panticosa
Formigal-Panticosa Ski Resort is one of the most popular destinations in Spain. Located in the Pyrenees, it is easily accessible from Huesca and is just a short distance from the French border. As an Aramon resort, it is one of the largest ski destinations in Spain, with a total of 143 km of slopes available for skiers of all levels.
As an intermediate skier, I found the runs at Formigal-Panticosa to be varied and challenging enough to keep me entertained for days. There are plenty of runs for first timers and advanced skiers as well, so it is a great destination for groups with varying levels of experience.
The ski school at Panticosa is top-notch, with experienced instructors who are patient and encouraging. They offer lessons for all ages and skill levels, so even if you have never skied before, you can feel confident hitting the slopes after a few lessons.
The amenities at Formigal are impressive, with a large parking area, a cafeteria, a stadium, and even a snowpark for those who want to try out some tricks. The resort also hosts competitions throughout the season, so you can watch some of the best skiers in Europe compete.
Overall, I would highly recommend Formigal-Panticosa Ski Resort to anyone looking for a great skiing experience in Spain. The resort has everything you need for a fun and challenging ski vacation, and the Pyrenees scenery is absolutely breathtaking.
Contact:
Address: C. Acceso Telesilla, s/n, 22661 Panticosa, Huesca, Spain
Phone: +34 974 49 00 00
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3. Baqueira-Beret
I have had the pleasure of skiing at the Baqueira-Beret Ski Resort in Lleida, and I must say, it is one of the best ski resorts in Spain. Located in the Aragon Pyrenees Mountains in the Aran Valley of Catalonia, Baqueira-Beret boasts some of the best skiing in the region.
With over 160 km of pistes and 34 ski lifts, Baqueira-Beret is the biggest ski resort in Spain, and an ideal destination for skiers of all levels. The resort is divided into three areas: Baqueira, Beret, and Bonaigua, each with its own unique terrain. The slopes range from newbies to expert level, making it a great destination for families and groups with varying ski abilities.
One of the things I appreciated about the Beret ski station was the lack of crowds. Unlike some of the more popular Spanish ski resorts, Baqueira-Beret has a more laid-back atmosphere, which makes for a more enjoyable skiing experience.
In terms of access, the Beret ski resort is easily reachable from Barcelona, Madrid, and even the French and Catalonian Pyrenees. The resort is open from December to April, making it a great winter destination for those looking to hit the slopes.
Aside from skiing, Baqueira also has a great selection of restaurants and bars. The resort has a variety of dining options, from casual cafés to fine dining restaurants. And for those looking to improve their skiing skills, Baqueira-Beret offers ski schools with experienced instructors.
Baqueira-Beret is a must-visit for anyone looking to ski in Spain. With its varied terrain, lack of crowds, and great amenities, it's no wonder Baqueira-Beret is considered one of the best ski resorts to go skiing in Spain.
Contact:
Address: Afores, s/n, 25598 Baqueria, Lleida, Spain
Phone: +34 973 63 90 00
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4. La Pinilla
La Pinilla is a ski area located in the Sierra de Ayllón Mountains massif, in the municipal district of Cerezo de Arriba, Segovia. It is situated about 115 kilometers from Madrid, making it the quieter of the three ski resorts near Madrid. The resort is ideal for skiers in the Central Mountains, and it has 20 kilometers of skiing at a high altitude of 1500 meters rising to a maximum of 2274 meters.
La Pinilla is a fun, welcoming, and uncrowded resort that caters to skiers of all levels. It has 16 marked pistes, and the slopes are well-maintained, making it ideal for both beginners and advanced skiers. The resort is also known for its off-piste skiing, which is popular among advanced skiers.
The base of the area is situated at 1497 meters AMSL, and the highest point is the Pico del Lobo, 2273 meters AMSL, with a vertical drop of 776 meters. La Pinilla has 9 lifts, including a six-seater chairlift, and a magic carpet for beginners. The resort also has a snowpark for freestyle skiers and snowboarders.
La Pinilla is not only a great place to ski, but it is also a perfect destination for a ski holiday. The resort has several restaurants, cafes, and bars where skiers can relax and enjoy a meal or a drink after a day on the mountain slopes. The resort also has several ski schools that offer lessons to skiers of all levels.
Contact:
Address: Estacion esqui La Pinilla, s/n, 40500 La Pinilla, Segovia, Spain
Phone: 34 921 55 11 13
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5. Valdelinares
Valdelinares Ski Resort is a picturesque ski resort located in the pine-forested Sierra de Gúdar mountains in La Rioja and Teruel. It is only an hour's drive inland from Valencia, the third-largest city in Spain.
Valdelinares Ski Resort is the southernmost resort in the Aragon region, and at an altitude of 1,693m, it is the highest municipal district in Spain. It is one of the smaller resorts with limited slopes, but they are well-groomed and perfect for families and beginners. The resort is also popular with snowboarders.
The resort has a total of 15 lifts, including 4 chairlifts, 8 surface lifts, and 3 magic carpets. The lifts can transport up to 9,000 skiers per hour. There are 13 slopes in total, ranging from green to black, with a total length of 15km.
Valdelinares is easily accessible by budget airlines, making it an affordable destination for skiing in Spain. The resort is also close to other popular ski resorts in the Spanish Pyrenees, such as Candanchu, Benasque, and Bonaigua.
For experts, Valdelinares offers some challenging slopes, but it is mostly suited for starters and intermediate skiers. The resort also has a ski school with experienced instructors who can help skiers of all levels improve their skills.
There are several hotels and accommodations available near the resort, making it convenient for skiers to stay close to the slopes. The resort also has restaurants and cafes serving traditional Spanish cuisine and drinks.
Contact:
Address: Carretera, 44413 Alcalá de la Selva, Teruel, Spain
Phone: +34 978 80 25 00
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6. Sierra Nevada – Pradollano
The Sierra Nevada Pradollano Ski Resort is located in Granada, the Southernmost ski resort in the South Of Spain. It is one of the most popular ski resorts in Spain, which hosted the Alpine World Ski Championships in 1996. The resort is situated in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, which is the highest in Spain and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean, attracting thousands of visitors every year.
The resort has a total of 113 km of ski slopes, with elevations ranging from 2,100m to 3,282m. The ski slopes are suitable for all levels of skiers, from beginners to experts. There are 21 ski lifts in the resort, including 2 gondolas, 14 chairlifts, 1 drag lift, and 4 magic carpets. The resort also offers night skiing, which is a unique experience for skiers.
Pradollano, the town located in the valley of Sierra Nevada, is the main hub of the resort. It has a range of accommodation options, including hotels, apartments, and chalets. The town also has a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. The ski school in Pradollano offers lessons for all levels of skiers, including children.
The journey to the resort is convenient, with the A-395 road linking Granada to Pradollano. The resort is accessible by car, bus, and train. The train journey from Cadiz to Granada takes around 4 hours and 7 minutes.
Pradollano is a great destination for high-altitude skiing and snowboarding in Spain. The resort offers a range of activities for families and young people in both winter and summer.
Contact:
Address: Andalucía Pl., 18196 Pradollano, Granada, Spain
Phone:+34 679 82 26 56
7. Valdezcaray
Valdezcaray is a ski resort located in the La Rioja part of Spain. It is situated in the Sierra de la Demanda, taking advantage of the slopes of the San Lorenzo peak, the highest in La Rioja and the second highest in the Iberian System, after Moncayo. The resort is a natural paradise, with the Oja River having its source here, amidst luxuriant forests and springs.
The winter sports area of Valdezcaray is situated between the elevations of 1,548 and 2,135 meters. The resort has 22 km of slopes and 2 km of ski routes available for skiing and snowboarding. The 10 lifts transport the guests to the slopes, and the resort is open all year round for sports enthusiasts to do their favorite activities.
Valdezcaray is small resort, combining rather easy slopes with some others that are a little bit more complicated. The resort has a total of 22 slopes, with 4 green, 7 blue, 9 red, and 2 black runs. The ski lifts are modern and efficient, and the slopes are well-groomed, making it one of the best destinations for beginners and intermediate skiers.
The amazing ski resort Valdezcaray is a popular destination for families and groups of friends who want to enjoy Alpine skiing in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The resort has a ski school that offers ski and snowboarding lessons for all levels, and there are also several restaurants and bars where visitors can enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine and après-ski activities.
Contact:
Address: Plaza de la Constitucion, 1, 26280 Ezcaray, La Rioja, Spain
Phone: +34 941 42 20 00
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8. Navacerrada
Navacerrada is one of the closest ski resorts to Madrid, located just 60 km away. It is situated in the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range, making it a popular destination for skiing enthusiasts in central Spain. The resort is located in the town of Cercedilla, which is easily accessible by car or public transportation.
The Navacerrada Ski Resort is divided into two areas: the upper area and the lower area. The upper area is suitable for intermediate and advanced skiers, while the lower area is better suited for beginners. The two resorts offers a variety of pistes, ranging from easy to difficult, and is well-sheltered by pine woods.
In addition to skiing, Navacerrada offers a range of other activities, such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The ski station also hosts major ski-mountaineering events, marathons, and mountain races throughout the winter ski season.
One of the unique features of the Navacerrada Ski Station is its proximity to Madrid. This makes it one of the best places for those who want to combine a skiing trip with a city break. The resort is easily accessible by public transportation, which makes it a convenient option for those who do not want to rent a car.
Contact:
Address: C. Dos Castillas, 3, 28470 Cercedilla, Madrid, Spain
Phone: +34 902 88 23 28
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FAQ
Q: What is the largest ski resort in Spain?
A: The largest ski resort in Spain is Baqueira-Beret, located in the heart of the Catalonian Pyrenees. It is also considered the most exclusive ski resort in Spain, favored by King Juan Carlos and the Spanish Royal family.
Q: What month is best to ski in Spain?
A: The best time to ski in Spain is from December to April. During this time, the ski resorts in the Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada ski resorts have the best snow conditions.
Q: What is the highest ski resort in Spain?
A: The highest ski resort in Spain is the Sierra Nevada, located in the heart of Andalucia in Southern Spain. It has a maximum elevation of 3,398 meters and offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Q: Is skiing in Spain expensive?
A: Skiing in Spain can be affordable compared to French ski resorts. Prices vary depending on the ski resort and the time of the year. However, generally speaking, skiing in Spain is less expensive than skiing in Switzerland or at French resorts.
Q: Does Spain have good ski resorts?
A: Yes, Spain has some excellent ski resorts, especially in the Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada. Baqueira-Beret is considered the best ski resort in Spain and among the best ski resorts in Europe. The ski resorts in Spain offer a wide range of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
PLAN YOUR SKI TRIP TO SPAIN
Book Your Hotel In Spain
You can book your hotel in Spain with Booking.com as they have the biggest inventory and best deals for your ski vacation. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hotel, they also return the cheapest rates for accommodations like hostels and guesthouses.
Book Your Flight To Spain
Use Skyscanner to find the cheapest airline tickets for Spain. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the world so you always know you get the best rates.
Need a Rental Car In Spain?
Here is a budget-friendly car rental resource. No matter to which ski resort you’re traveling, you’ll be able to find the cheapest car rentals in Spain here.
Looking for an Airport Transfer Service In Spain?
If you are looking for a convenient and affordable option to get to and from the airport in Spain, here you will find all the answers to book your next airport transfer in Spain.
Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illnesses, an injury, luggage theft, and even trip cancellations. It’s a comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong during your trip. I never go skiing in Spain without it as I’ve had to use it several times in the past. My favorite travel insurance companies that offer the best service and value are:
Looking for the Best Travel Companies to Save Money With?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel to Spain. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m taking a trip. They will save you money when you travel too.
Want More Information on Spain:
Be sure to visit our Spain Travel Guide for even more travel tips.
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