8 best ski resorts in Spain
Sun, sand, and snow? If you thought Spain was only about golden beaches and tapas feasts, think again. Spain is home to the (original) Sierra Nevada range and the Pyrenees. So, there’s plenty of snow to make this summer paradise a winter wonderland, too.
With dozens of resorts dotted around the country, Spain is an under-the-radar snow destination with plenty going for it. Some resorts boast crazy stats with over 10,000 feet (3,000-meter) elevations, 20 feet (over six meters) of snow, and miles of inbounds and backcountry terrain. Europe’s rich riding heritage extends beyond the Alps, and Spain is no exception to that statement. So, if you’re ready to discover all this country has to offer, dive into our guide to the best ski resorts in Spain.
Check out the newest collection from MONTEC below, too. After all, a new destination needs new gear to go with it, right?
Top ski destinations
Baqueira Beret
- Total slope length: Approx. 105 miles/170 kilometers
- Number of trails: 113
- Number of lifts: 36
- Top elevation: 8,530 feet/2,610 meters
- Average annual snowfall: Approx. 23 feet/7 meters
Baqueira Beret is the largest and snowiest resort in Spain. It’s in the legendary Val d’Aran, just up from Vielha, the capital of this self-contained Catalonian region. Baqueira Beret is about a four-hour drive from Barcelona Airport or a three-hour drive from Toulouse. Famous for its expansive terrain, Baqueira Beret offers a mix of both treed and open skiing, along with a high alpine bowl known for its deep powder and plenty of steeper, more technical descents.
You’ll find a wealth of easily accessible backcountry and touring options here. That’s all thanks to the road that leads to the top bowl of the resort, giving direct access to the deepest snow and best terrain. Guided tours are also available. These often head to the Orri and Bonaigua areas for a slice of some of the region’s best backcountry riding.
The resort town is bustling and vibrant during the season. It’s purpose-built with modern hotels, such as the Hotel AC Baqueira with its ski-in, ski-out slopeside location. After something more traditional? Stay in Vielha down the valley, full of Aranese architecture. Back in resort, don’t miss out on the Moët Winter Lounge for a well-earned glass of post-ride champagne. Salud!
La Molina
- Total slope length: Approx. 44 miles/71 kilometers
- Number of trails: 68
- Number of lifts: 16
- Top elevation: 8,022 feet/2,445 meters
- Average annual snowfall: Approx. 4 feet/1.2 meters
La Molina lies east of Baqueira Beret, only a two-hour drive from Barcelona Airport. It’s not quite as extensive or snowy as its larger neighbor. However, it’s still more than worth the visit. Spread across 44 miles/71 kilometers, this sizeable resort has a mixture of beginner and intermediate trails, making it a perfecto place to learn to ski.
La Molina has an impressive selection of technical black and red trails. Our favorite? The Comella run, a wide-open red with fantastic valley views. You can also easily access backcountry terrain from La Molina, with the popular Tosa d’Alp ski touring area just around the corner.
La Molina is a compact resort with an array of bars, restaurants, and shops to enjoy. For a family-friendly hotel recommendation, check out the HG La Molina. And for après? Visit El Bodeguilla, a cozy spot with affordable drinks and delicious tapas. When in Spain!
Sierra Nevada
- Total slope length: Approx. 68 miles/110 kilometers
- Number of trails: 131
- Number of lifts: 21
- Top elevation: 10,892 feet/3,320 meters
- Average annual snowfall: Approx. 19.7 feet/6 meters
Two hours from Málaga Airport is the unique Sierra Nevada ski resort. This 68-mile/110-kilometer behemoth stretches to nearly 11,000 feet/3,350 meters and is just a stone’s throw from the Mediterranean Sea in one of the warmest and driest parts of the country. So, it’s a surprise that this resort racks up 20 feet/six meters of snow annually. Don’t worry, we were dubious too. But we checked — and it’s true! Due to its position in a high massif of peaks, Sierra Nevada has its own microclimate, creating a snowy wonderland with high-altitude skiing and long sunny days.
There are two types of weather here — bluebirds and blizzards. And we don’t know which is better. If you’re heading here, take the plunge down El Águila, the resort’s longest run. The Pradollano village at the base is lively and bustling with plenty of hotel, dining, and après options.
After a really epic experience? Hit the Vincci Selección Rumaykiyya hotel, a five-star, slopeside stopover that’s sure to please. Our pick for après is Tito Luigi’s, a popular spot bursting with life and live music. The perfect combination, right?
Boí Taüll
- Total slope length: Approx. 28 miles/45 kilometers
- Number of trails: 43
- Number of lifts: 11
- Top elevation: 9,022 feet/2,751 meters
- Average annual snowfall: Approx. 13 feet/4 meters
We head back to the Catalan Pyrenees and over the hill from Baqueira Beret to the little-known Boí Taüll. This resort boasts the highest elevation in the entire mountain range, along with 13 feet/four meters of annual snow and more freeriding than any other destination in the country.
Boí Taüll has an impressive mix of terrain, with lots of inbounds off-piste to explore. It’s also one of the best touring spots, with loads of epic descents within bootpack range.
Boí Taüll’s village is small and relaxed. The atmosphere is geared more towards exploration and tranquility than partying till dawn. Still, you’ll find a small selection of bars and restaurants to enjoy. You’ll also discover indie hotels, such as the Aparthotel Augusta, a perfectly placed self-catered stay. For drinks, hit La Carena, a cozy, authentic Catalan bar.
Formigal
- Total slope length: Approx. 86 miles/138 kilometers
- Number of trails: 97
- Number of lifts: 21
- Top elevation: 7,451 feet/2,271 meters
- Average annual snowfall: Approx. 16.4 feet/5 meters
We aim for snowy Formigal next. This resort is in the Aragonese Pyrenees – about two hours from Zaragoza Airport. It lies to the west of Baqueira Beret in the province of Aragon. Once there, you’ll find a wide array of terrain, perfect for all shred levels.
The views in Formigal are unreal, too, and worth coming for on their own! You can tour from the resort into the Anayet and Tres Hombres areas, offering untouched powder lines from top to bottom.
The town of Formigal-Panticosa is well-developed, with awesome restaurants and bars. For a stay recommendation, check out Hotel Saliecho, known for its spa and mountain views. Wanting a drink after you’ve hung up your skis for the day? Head to Marchica, a lively après bar with an outdoor terrace and live music.
Vallter 2000
- Total slope length: Approx. 12 miles/20 kilometers
- Number of trails: 13
- Number of lifts: 11
- Top elevation: 8,530 feet/2,610 meters
- Average annual snowfall: Approx. 9.8 feet/3 meters
We return to Catalonia with Vallter 2000, a compact but beautiful resort loved for its quiet, wide-open slopes, natural setting, and great beginner runs. The Jordi Pujol run is a prime example of this. It’s guaranteed to burn those thighs if you’re just starting out.
You’ll find a decent amount of off-piste around Vallter 2000. However, touring options are limited. So, if it’s backcountry you’re after, check out other resorts on this list.
There’s no nearby town or resort center to speak of at Vallter 2000. Instead, you’ll discover the small village of Setcases, providing a quintessential Catalonian mountain village experience alongside plenty of history. Hotel La Coma is cozy, comfy, and our top pick for staying in Setcases. The charming Xalet del Catllar is also just down the road, perfect for unwinding and sipping cheap beer.
Cerler
- Total slope length: Approx. 48 miles/79 kilometers
- Number of trails: 68
- Number of lifts: 19
- Top elevation: 8,950 feet/2,728 meters
- Average annual snowfall: Approx. 13 feet/4 meters
Okay, let’s crank things up. Cerler is a sizeable resort that reaches nearly 9,000 feet/2,743 meters and racks up 13 feet/4 meters of snow annually. Got your attention? Good.
You’ll find Cerler in the Benasque Valley, about two and a half hours from Zaragoza Airport. It’s known for its varied terrain and high, snowy bowls, including the Rincón del Cielo, a must-hit for anyone looking for the deeper stuff. You can also tour up to the Pico de Cerler from the resort. Then, take the long ride down to Cerler town 3,000 feet/914 meters below.
Stay at Cerler 1500 or in Benasque itself. Both are charming and have a warm, welcoming vibe. Our top pick for a cozy stay is the Hotel SNÖ Edelweiss, practically right on the slopes. In the mood for Spanish cuisine and après? Aim for Remáscaro, a friendly spot with great drinks and authentic tapas.
Port del Comte
- Total slope length: Approx. 31 miles/50 kilometers
- Number of trails: 37
- Number of lifts: 16
- Top elevation: 7,546 feet/2,300 meters
- Average annual snowfall: Approx. 9.8 feet/3 meters
The final destination on our list is Port del Comte, only one and a half hours from Barcelona Airport. This means it’s one of the easiest-to-reach resorts. Port del Comte is medium-sized with a mix of beginner and intermediate terrain and fun tree-lined runs.
Check out La Rasa for a sweeping ride with epic views! Okay, there’s not a lot of backcountry. However, that makes Port del Comte awesome for a shorter break. Why not mix city sightseeing with exploring other parts of the mountains, too?
There’s a compact base with a few amenities. The Hotel Serhs Ski Port del Comte is an easy choice for the night if you want to ski in the day and head back to the city in the morning. After a little taste of Spanish nightlife? Zone in on El Racó del Pla, a relaxed après spot just around the corner.
Wrapping up
Well, that’s it! Spain is home to a handful of incredible resorts…and now you know them all. Whether it’s epic lines at Boí Taüll or sun-drenched laps at Sierra Nevada, Spain is sure to please any and all riders who visit.
Know something we don’t or want to get in touch? Hit us up at crew@montecwear.com and let us know if Spain is on this year’s list for you.
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