The Mediterranean Insider

Spain

Peak perfect: the 5 best ski resorts in Spain

The Mediterranean • Insider guides • Peak perfect: the 5 best ski resorts in Spain

Alpine alternative: explore Spain’s best ski resorts

Spain’s Pyrenees are a compelling alternative to the Alps, offering exceptional skiing paired with the warmth of Iberian culture. Stretching across Aragón and Catalonia, the region boasts a mix of high-altitude terrain, diverse pistes and picturesque mountain villages. Skiers and snowboarders will find everything from expansive slopes and tree-lined descents to vibrant après-ski and cosy lodges serving hearty local dishes. Off the slopes, the area’s rich heritage comes alive in centuries-old architecture, lively markets and traditional mountain customs.

Baqueira-Beret

Baqueira-Beret in the Val d’Aran is often whispered about among seasoned skiers as Europe’s best-kept secret. Renowned for its expansive 167 kilometres of groomed pistes and reliable powder, it offers something rare in European skiing – a north-facing orientation that keeps snow conditions pristine throughout the season. The resort is a favourite among the Spanish royal family, and it’s easy to see why. Baqueira-Beret’s high-altitude areas – reaching up to 2,610 metres – boast sweeping views of jagged peaks, while its lower sections wind through tranquil pine forests. Off-piste enthusiasts will find a playground of untouched powder, while if cross-country skiing is your thing you can explore scenic trails in Beret. If you are seeking more than skiing, nearby Vielha’s Romanesque churches and rustic tapas bars provide a cultural counterpoint. Whether it’s the discreet exclusivity, culinary surprises or unbeatable snow, Baqueira-Beret feels worlds away from the glitzy Alpine mainstream, making it a destination for those in the know.

Formigal-Panticosa

Set in the heart of Spain’s Aragonese Pyrenees, Formigal-Panticosa is the largest ski area in the country, with 180 kilometres of pistes spread across four interconnected valleys. Its diverse terrain caters to all levels, from the steep slopes of Tres Hombres for advanced skiers to beginner-friendly areas like Portalet. What truly sets Formigal-Panticosa apart is its après-ski scene, epitomised by Marchica, a lively slope-side venue hosting DJ sets and parties as the sun sets behind the mountains. Off the slopes, you can soak in Panticosa’s historic thermal baths, dating back to Roman times, or explore traditional Pyrenean villages dotted with stone houses and local eateries serving hearty migas and grilled lamb. For families, night skiing and snow tubing add extra excitement.

La Molina-Masella

La Molina-Masella, collectively known as Alp 2500, is a Catalan skiing haven offering 145 kilometres of interconnected pistes, crowned by views from La Tosa peak at 2,535 metres. La Molina is Spain’s oldest ski resort, and carries a legacy dating back to 1943. Its technical slopes attract seasoned skiers, while Masella’s tree-lined runs create a tranquil escape for intermediates and families. The unique night skiing experience at Masella – Spain’s longest illuminated ski run – is a highlight. Off the slopes, you can savour Catalan mountain fare like trinxat in cosy refuges or explore nearby Alp, a quaint village known for its Romanesque church and vibrant markets. Families will appreciate the variety of snow parks and activities, from sledging to snowshoeing.

Cerler

With its location in the dramatic Benasque Valley, Cerler boasts the highest skiable terrain in the Pyrenees, reaching 2,630 metres at Gallinero peak. Its 80 kilometres of slopes offer diverse challenges, from the exhilarating nine-kilometre ‘Desafío’ run – a bucket-list descent for experienced skiers – to gentle, wide pistes perfect for families. Surrounded by the towering peaks of the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park, including Aneto which is Spain’s highest mountain, the resort offers beautiful panoramic views. When you are done skiing for the day, Cerler’s authentic Aragonese roots shine with plenty of opportunities to sample local specialities like chiretas or wander through centuries-old streets. Off-piste, snowshoeing trails weave through untouched forests and guided excursions reveal the valley’s natural beauty. A favourite among Spanish families for its laid-back atmosphere and reliable snow, Cerler delivers a mix of thrilling terrain, stunning surroundings.

Port Ainé

Right on the northern slopes of the Orri Massif in the Catalan Pyrenees, Port Ainé is known for its unbeatable snow quality, thanks to its sheltered position and predominantly north-facing slopes. This compact resort is a great pick for beginners and families, offering 30 kilometres of well-groomed pistes may not impress on paper, but alongside a standout snow garden and a toboggan park for younger visitors it is simply a nice resort to experience. Its eco-friendly ethos is evident in the sustainable practices at its 2,000-metre-high base lodge, complete with a cosy fireplace and locally inspired cuisine like Catalan botifarra. If you want to do something extra, Port Ainé’s extensive snowshoeing trails and guided excursions provide a chance to explore the rugged natural beauty of the Pallars Sobirà region at a slower pace.