Skiing in Spain - The Complete Guide

Though Spain is largely known for its sun, sea and sand, the idea of quality ski resorts in Spain is slowly warming up to tourists.

In recent years, more and more winter sports enthusiasts have jumped at the chance of visiting one of Spain’s ski resorts for their winter holidays.

With the proliferation of new and refurbished ski resorts in five distinct regions of Spain, there is a wide variety of options to suit everyone’s standards and budgets.

The main skiing regions of Spain are located in Aragon and the Catalonian Pyrenees, the Cantabrian, Iberian and Central mountains and the Penibetico mountain range in the south.

The Aragonese and Catalonian Pyrenees in Northern Spain is home to most of the country's leading ski resorts although the Sierra Nevada located in the heart of Andalucia in Southern Spain ranks amongst the best.

There is also an enviable choice of ski resorts near Madrid, Galicia, Leon and Cantabria in the northwest and La Rioja and Teruel in the mid-north.

For winter sports and skiing enthusiasts, Spain currently offers over 1,000 kilometres of quality marked trails and slopes situated in over 36 ski resorts, half of which are proud owners of the Q awards for their quality tourism facilities and services offered.

And all this is set in a country that is ranked only second to Switzerland when it comes to the greatest number of mountains.

Spain may not presently be in the league of some of the Swiss, Austrian or French ski resorts however the tide is definitely turning as Spain becomes one of the best-value ski destinations in Europe.

Quality slopes, trails, facilities, snow-making equipment, ski schools, winter sports activities, ski hotels, and great food make Spain a hot ski and winter sports destination.

Skiing Spain
Skiing Spain

Ski And Winter Sports Travel

Skiing in Spain usually starts at the beginning of November and runs through to the end of April.

The ski resorts in Spain strive for excellence as they compete in the ski travel market against the Swiss and French resorts.

The lower pricing is one of the advantages that is making skiing in Spain a more attractive destination than its more illustrious counterparts in Austria, Switzerland and France.

There is the added advantage that many budget airlines fly to most parts of Spain, which makes it cheaper and more convenient for tourists to reach the ski stations in Spain than in other countries.

With the rising popularity of ski holidays in Spain, increased investment is being poured into this area of tourism.

Other areas that have been spruced up due to the ski resorts are easier access roads into the resorts, this has resulted in the growth of restaurants, parking and quality hotels nearer to the pistes.

Most of the resorts are very family orientated catering for all levels of skiers, and as skiing becomes ever more popular in Europe there are plenty of schools on hand with well-trained professional teachers to lend a hand with your first tentative steps on the slopes.

Skiing in Aragon

Skiing Aragon

Aragon is an area of outstanding beauty offering a number of popular ski resorts, here is a round-up of the best ski resorts you would be wise to consider when planning your next skiing trip to Spain.

Candanchu

Candanchu Ski Resort
Candanchu Ski Resort

Candanchu is located at the heart of Aragon Pyrenees and is the oldest ski resort in Spain, it offers a large range of slopes that are suitable for all levels.

There is a comprehensive network of ski lifts, making it easy for everyone to access the slopes.

The slopes were being explored back in the 1920,s which quickly became popular, the first ski lifts in Spain were installed at Candanchu, and new modern lifts can now transport over 26.000 Skiers each and every hour.

Candanchu can now boast some 27 lifts, and nearly 40 kilometres of quality marked pistes with the magical “Tuca Blanca” run standing proudly over the resort at 2400 meters.

If cross-country skiing is your thing, then the Candanchu Le-Somport ski resort is the perfect place for you.

The tracks are well marked, groomed and varied winding their way along with beautiful scenery that meanders through picturesque oak forests, here you will be at one with nature and enjoy some of the best cross-country skiing Spain has to offer.

Panticosa

Panticosa Ski Resort
Panticosa Ski Resort

Nestled near the town of Panticosa, it offers a distinctive Nordic feel, sited amongst towering snow-capped peaks of Huesca.

The Panticosa Ski Resort is located at an altitude of 1,636 meters in a glacial circle, surrounded by peaks, some of which are over 3,000 meters high.

Divided into two sectors, namely Petrosos and Valle de Sabocos, it covers an area of over 35 square kilometres.

Artificial snow machines keep many slopes open even during periods of low snowfall.

The journey up to the resort is stunning as it will take you through beautiful pine-clad meadows via a striking natural lake.

Formigal

Formigal Ski Resort
Formigal Ski Resort

Located eight kilometres from France’s border, Formigal is one of the largest ski resorts in the Pyrenees with an extensive area with over 83 ski runs.

Formigal has around 137 km of pistes, spread out over 7 inter-connecting valleys.

There are currently 16 lifts spread over 507 acres of terrain and is suitable for all levels, including terrain park enthusiasts, two snow parks, a moguls run, dog sledging, and Skidoo driving amongst other attractions.

And for beginners, the Formigal ski school is recognised as one of the best in the country with over 100 instructors.

Benasque

Benasque Ski Resort
Benasque Ski Resort

The Benasque Ski Resort is located inside the Posets-Maladetas nature reserve, nestled within the Spanish Pyrenees. A picturesque region of protected oak, birch and beech forests, waterfalls and sheer valleys.

Declared a natural park in 1994 with a total extension of 33.267 hectares. This area is home to three living Iberian glaciers the Posets, Perdiguero and Maladeta, and has more than 60 summits over 3,000 meters in height.

Benasque offers a myriad of activities that will surely cater for everyone including hydrospeed, kayaking and rafting.

Trekking possibilities allow you to explore the Posets-Maladetas nature reserve within the peaks of the Aneto and Maladetta Masif in the shadow of the highest peak in the Pyrenees which stands dominant at 3404 meters.

Astun

Astun Ski Resort
Astun Ski Resort

Astun is another fine resort located within the municipality of Candanchu in the Aragonese Pyrenees and nestles in the Aragon Valley.

Situated right on the border with France and only 33 km from Jaca, the largest town in the area which runs 4 coach services daily up to the resort.

The Astun Ski Resort has a wide variety of ski runs of all levels and all areas are well-marked and maintained making skiing in this resort a pleasure at all times.

There are plenty of apres-ski or non-ski activities on offer around the resort including plenty of restaurants, shops, a swimming pool, an ice rink and tennis courts.

Javalambre

The Javalambre ski resort is located just an hour's drive north of the orange groves of Valencia.

A fairly new resort, opening its doors to the public in 1995, it is very modern with plenty of advanced snowmaking equipment to ensure the slopes are well maintained ensuring quality skiing throughout the entire winter season.

There is an excellent choice of facilities on offer at the Aramon Javalambre which will ensure you really will have a terrific and memorable skiing holiday.

Valdelinares

Valdelinares is the southernmost ski resort located in the autonomous community of Aragon. It is situated in the Gudar mountains at an altitude of 1.693 meters which makes it the highest township in Spain.

Valdelinares is one of Spain’s smallest ski resorts and the number of slopes and facilities are limited so would recommend short stays here rather than spending a long break as you may tire of skiing the same slopes.

Major improvements have been made to the regional infrastructure and roads which has made the Valdelinares Ski Resort much more accessible from Valencia, Catalonia and Aragon. Visitor numbers are steadily increasing as its natural beauty becomes ever-popular with skiers and other winter sports enthusiasts.

The Resort's current status as a low-key resort rather than one that is firmly on the international ski circuit has kept good quality food and accommodation relatively inexpensive.

Definitely worthwhile checking out some of the eateries in the nearby villages of Alcala de la Selva and Mora de Los Rabielos, you won't be disappointed.

 

Skiing in Cantabria

Skiing in Cantabria Spain
Skiing in Cantabria Spain

Cantabria is a beautiful region in northern Spain and a top skiing destination, with top-notch facilities, accommodations and amenities, the Cantabrian ski resorts are a popular choice for winter sports enthusiasts.

Manzaneda

Manzaneda is a unique ski resort surrounded by a vast forest area, it's raw natural beauty surprises most first-time visitors to the area.

Due to its easily accessible location, it is open all year round. Skiers will get a lovely treat of fantastic scenery as they ski down the slopes.

And when the snow is scarce there is still a myriad of activities to do at the resort including cycling, riding, tennis and hand gliding.

San Isidro

San Isidro Ski Resort
San Isidro Ski Resort

The San Isidro Ski resort is one of the most popular in Spain, boasting 32 tracks set in an idyllic landscape.

San Isidro is perfect for family vacations, as children can look forward to activities at a Children’s Recreational Centre in the resort.

Little by little the San Isidro ski resort has been converted into one of the most important in Spain and with over 23 km of high-class alpine skiing on offer it's easy to see why.

With a number of snow cannons on hand there are always enough slopes open during the skiing season.

Alto Campoo

Alto Campoo
Alto Campoo

Situated at the summit of the Campoo Valley, Alto Campoo is a beautiful resort with stunning views.

Suitable for skiers of all levels, it is very well equipped with quality facilities. There is a selection of snowboarding runs within the ski area.

This stunningly beautiful resort sits amongst three mountains, the Cuchillon, El Chivo and Tres Mares, with peaks over 2000 meters in height.

Valgrande-Pajares

Valgrande Pajares
Valgrande Pajares

The resort at Polo de Lena in Asturias is a good all-around ski resort and is situated within an hour's drive from the main cities of Asturias, Oviedo, Castilla, Leon, Gijon and Aviles.

Although it is modest in size Valgrande Pajares is popular due to the variety of pistes and its quality installations.

The resort has a long tradition of Nordic Skiing.

Leitariegos

Leitariegos is a smallish resort located in the northwest province of Leon which borders Asturias.

The natural environment which surrounds Leitariegos makes skiing here a real pleasure and a great way to see the beautiful countryside of both counties.

 

Skiing in Catalonia

Ski Resort Catalonia
Ski Resort Catalonia

Here are some of the top ski resorts in Catalonia, Spain.

Vallter 2000 Ski Resort

Located in a glacier valley within the Catalonian Pyrenees, this ski resort has a long-established reputation for quality and service.

The Vallter 2000 ski resort is sited on a glacial circle called Circulo de Morens-Ull de Ter and is located at the Easternmost part of the Pyrenees.

Due to its privileged geographical position, visitors here are entertained by breathtaking scenery and panoramic views over Roses Bay all the way to the Costa Brava.

Boi Taull

Boi Taull
Boi Taull

Located at the highest summit in the Pyrenees, its unique character and charm attract tourists to enjoy their winter sports for their ski holidays in Spain.

As the Boi Taull ski resort is relatively smaller in size as compared to the other large-scale skiing destinations, it is an excellent choice for families with small kids with its easy navigation.

Aransa

Aransa is a popular cross-country ski resort, trails pass through mountain meadows and black pines, offering the skier breathtaking views.

Due to its location, it is a place with high-quality snow. There are tons of activities for everyone, ranging from snowshoe excursions to having a good meal at the resort’s restaurants.

Tavascan

Tavascan is a perfect location if you are looking for a smaller, cosy setting set in natural surroundings.

Although Tavascan is a relatively small resort its facilities really are second to none and have an excellent reputation for alpine and Nordic skiing and snowboarding.

The station is set high up in stunning mountain scenery with spectacular views.

The resort has a pioneering winter sports centre which comprises a ski school and a high mountain school with experts teaching modern skiing and mountaineering techniques.

Masella

Located in La Cerdanya, the Masella ski resort is situated amongst typical alpine scenery and whereby 80% of the slopes meander through forests.

There's good quality snow in abundance which is guaranteed by some 380 snow canons and has become one of Spain’s most popular and unique ski and snowboard resorts.

La Molina

Also located in the Cerdanya Valley within the municipality of Alp in the Spanish Pyrenees mountains immediately to the southeast of Andorra.

La Molina is one of the oldest ski resorts in Spain, the first hotel here opened its doors to skiers in 1925 and many snow-making and other lift engineering techniques were pioneered here.

The slopes are very well groomed and maintained with 390 canons ensuring the quality of the snow right through the season. It is a resort that has grown and been built for skiers of all levels to enjoy.

Vall de Nuria

Vall de Nuria is a popular ski resort located at the eastern end of the Pyrenees set amongst spectacular peaks reaching 3000 meters in height.

The only access to Vall de Nuria is via a funicular train which departs from Ribes de Freser. On your way up the mountain, you will be teased by some stunning scenery which gives you a taste of what you can expect upon reaching your destination.

The resort is family orientated with slopes and runs for all levels of skiers, they are also well-groomed and marked out making it a safe skiing destination.

Sant Joan de L`Erm

Sant Joan de L'erm is situated between the areas of Pallars Sobrirà and Alt Urgell at the base of the Orri peak.

Natural and unspoiled forests surround Sant Joan and make this resort an all-year-round favourite when the snowing season ends.

Port  Aine

Port Aine is situated in the Pallars Sobura region of the Catalonian Pyrenees and was first opened to the public in 1986. This is more than just a striking ski resort as it offers numerous mountain activities all year long.

In summer the resort offers a good selection of adventure sports including quad biking, rafting, canyoning, hydrospeed and horse riding amongst others.

And close by is Noguera Pallaresa where one of the most important white water rivers is located.

Port del Comte

The Port de Compte ski resort is located in one of the most picturesque and beautiful areas of the Catalonian Pyrenees surrounded by forests, woods and meadows.

The resort has built a reputation for being very family orientated and is divided into two main areas which are clearly marked, Hostal-Sucre and Estivella.

Runs are open to skiers of all levels and the classical ambience of this stunning resort makes Port de Compte a special place.

Baquiera Beret

Baquiera Beret is located in the Lleida Pyrenees in the beautiful Val D`Aran Valley and is made up of three areas, Baquiera Beret and Bonaigua and is generally considered to be the most complete ski resort to be found in Spain.

There is an excellent variety of slopes in the three areas for skiers of all levels

Baquiera Beret is a known hangout for the rich and famous so don’t be surprised if you see the current prime minister of Spain or a member of the royal family enjoying the slopes alongside you.

Skiing in North Central Spain

Skiing in Central Spain
Skiing in Central Spain

 

The northern central Spain region offers a good selection of quality ski and winter sports resorts, these are the top resorts:

Navacerrada

The Navacerrada ski resort is the second most important within the central system and is the undisputed playground for the Madrid resident due to its proximity to Spain’s capital which is only 60 km away. It is the only ski resort within the autonomous region of Madrid.

The slopes here are in two clearly defined areas, the top part which is more for the intermediate and advanced skier with the lower area for the intermediate and beginner.

Covatilla

Covatilla can be found in the south of the Salamanca province in the westernmost part of the Central Mountains. Its altitude and north-facing location guarantee lots of high-quality snow throughout the season.

The wide slopes are well maintained and groomed and are on low gradient hillsides which make them ideal for both experts and beginners alike.

Experience the majestic slopes of Covatilla, a place to feel the adrenaline and the wind in your face while enjoying the beauty of the snow-capped peaks.

It is a fantastic choice to check into the La Covatilla ski resort, which has 31 downhill slopes to choose from. For the adventurous, you can try out the different cross-country ski trails for an out-of-this-world alpine adventure.

Since there are varied options for different hotels and cabins to choose from, you definitely won’t be lacking choices.

La Pinilla

The La Pinilla ski winter ski resort is situated in the Ayllon mountain range in the municipality of Cerezo de Arriba. Its location near Madrid, Bugos and Valladolid has made this resort a firm favourite with visitors from central Spain.

La Pinilla is recommended for beginners, as it boasts two ski schools with experienced instructors.

The area is generally uncrowded and offers vast open and largely tranquil ski areas.

Valdesqui

Valdesqui
Valdesqui

The Valdesqui ski resort is located in the heart of the Sierra de Madrid in the town of Rescafria and close to Mundo and Valdemartin.

Although not one of the largest skiing centres, it does have some interesting medium to difficult slopes which has made this resort very popular with all levels of skiers.

Valdesque is close to some culturally interesting sites such as El Paular and La Cartujar which are both well worth visiting.

Valdezcaray

Valdezcaray is located at the base of Mount San Lorenzo near the town of Ezcaray in the heart of the Iberico mountain range.

For the nature lover, this is paradise as the resort nestles within a stunningly beautiful part of northern Spain with picturesque dense pine, oak and beech forests.

The resort boasts 22 pistes open to the public plus such activities as hunting, fishing, mountaineering and horse riding amongst others.

One of the great joys of visiting this area is, of course, trying out the famous Riojan cuisine along with some of the undisputed kings of Spanish wine which are made in this gorgeous part of Spain.

Skiing in Sierra Nevada Andalucia

Sierre Nevada Skiing
Sierre Nevada Skiing

 

The Sierra Nevada nestles high in the Pentibetico mountain range some 32 kilometres from the historic city of Granada and is the southernmost ski resort in Spain.

The resort offers great facilities for all winter sports enthusiasts and provides a good selection and quality slopes for all levels of skiers.

It also has an excellent cross-country track and the old saying that can snow in the morning and spend the afternoon tanning yourself on a sun-kissed beach is absolutely true, some of the best beaches and resorts are only a stone's throw away along with the Granada, Almeria and Malaga coastlines.

For nature lovers, Sierra Nevada is a must-place to visit with picturesque natural scenery and spectacular views over the surrounding mountains.

The Sierra Nevada can get very crowded during weekends and public holidays so if you can try to avoid the slopes on those days your enjoyment of the slopes will be much more satisfying.

 

Useful Resources

» Snow Forecast Spain
» Ski Resorts in Spain
» Best Ski Resorts in Spain

 

Skiing in Spain For Beginners

Skiing in Spain might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of this sun-soaked country, but it's an excellent destination for beginner skiers.

With numerous ski resorts scattered primarily across the Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada mountains, Spain offers a unique blend of quality skiing and rich cultural experiences.

For beginners, Spain is particularly appealing because of its wide, gentle slopes and dedicated learning areas.

Resorts like Baqueira-Beret in the Pyrenees and the Sierra Nevada near Granada offer extensive ski schools and beginner-friendly zones where you can get comfortable on your skis.

You'll find well-maintained pistes and modern lift systems, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable time on the slopes.

In terms of cost, Spain is often more affordable than skiing hotspots in the Alps, making it ideal for beginners who may not yet want to invest heavily in a skiing holiday.

There are always a number of ski schools in each of the top resorts where you can learn to ski relatively cheap in comparison to other parts of the world.  The basic rates are around 50 euros per person for an hour's lesson.

Rental shops at or near the resorts make it easy to get fitted for all the necessary gear, from skis to snowsuits.

Additionally, Spain’s ski resorts are known for their friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

The après-ski culture here is less about glitz and more about enjoying good food and company.

Traditional Spanish cuisine and local wines make a perfect end to a day of learning on the slopes.

So if you're a beginner looking for a different and culturally enriching skiing experience, Spain should definitely be on your radar.

Skiing in Spain Near Barcelona

If you plan to base yourself in Barcelona and looking to hit the slopes, you're in luck because the Pyrenees are just a short drive away.

One of the closest ski resorts to Barcelona is La Molina, located about two hours by car. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, La Molina offers a variety of slopes suitable for skiers of all skill levels, including beginners.

With over 60 kilometres of skiable terrain, the resort is large enough to keep you engaged but not so overwhelming that it's intimidating for new skiers.

Another nearby option is Masella, which is adjacent to La Molina and is sometimes considered its sister resort.

Together, they form the Alp 2500 ski area, offering an expansive range of slopes and modern amenities.

Masella is particularly noted for its nighttime skiing, a unique experience worth trying.

For those willing to venture a bit further, Baqueira-Beret is a premium ski resort about four hours from Barcelona. It offers some of the best skiing in Spain and has slopes to accommodate all skill levels.

These resorts not only offer great skiing but also provide other winter activities, ski schools, and equipment rental, making them ideal destinations for both seasoned skiers and novices alike.

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, skiing is possible in Southern Spain, primarily in the Sierra Nevada mountain range near Granada. The Sierra Nevada Ski Station offers a variety of slopes suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers. The ski season usually runs from late November to early May, depending on snowfall.

The largest ski resort in Spain is Baqueira-Beret, located in the Pyrenees Mountains in the region of Catalonia. Covering over 2,166 hectares, the resort offers a wide range of slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. With 160 kilometres of marked pistes, it's a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

The skiing season in Spain generally runs from early December to late April, although this can vary depending on the specific resort and annual snowfall. The Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada regions offer the most reliable conditions. Always check resort websites for the most current information on snow conditions and open slopes.

Spain is home to approximately 30 ski resorts, offering a variety of options for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. The majority of these resorts are located in the Pyrenees and the Sierra Nevada mountain ranges. Each resort offers its own unique terrain and facilities, catering to skiers of all levels.

Yes, Spain offers excellent skiing conditions, especially in the Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada mountain ranges. The country is generally less crowded than other European skiing destinations, providing a more relaxed experience. With well-groomed slopes, modern facilities, and diverse terrains, Spain's ski resorts cater to both beginners and advanced skiers.

The Spanish royal family has been known to enjoy skiing vacations in Baqueira-Beret, located in the Pyrenees mountains in the region of Catalonia. This upscale resort is popular among Spanish elites and offers excellent skiing conditions, modern facilities, and a range of slopes suitable for various skill levels.

Ski Resort Hotels & Accommodation in Spain