When it comes to skiing in Europe, people often head to the Alps, no questions asked. But… The Pyrenees mountain range offers some of the most picturesque and thrilling ski resorts in the world. Yes, really.
With its stunning natural beauty, diverse terrain, and a wide range of ski facilities, the Pyrenees is a haven for both amateur and expert skiers. And better still, there are some great resorts which give you the opportunity to explore a different world when it comes to the winter holidays.
So if you’re thinking about checking out something different this winter, these are the best ski resorts in the Pyrenees for you to consider.
1. Baqueira-Beret, Spain
Located in the Catalonia region of Spain, Baqueira-Beret is considered one of the premier ski resorts in the Pyrenees. With its high altitude ranging from 1,500 to 2,610 meters, it boasts excellent snow reliability throughout the season. Baqueira-Beret offers over 160 kilometers of ski slopes, perfectly suitable for all skill levels.
Additionally, the resort provides easy access with several airports nearby, including Toulouse and Barcelona. The overall style of the resort is a mix of modern infrastructure and traditional Pyrenean charm.
Visitors can expect a variety of accommodations, ranging from luxury hotels to cozy chalets. The expected cost for a week-long ski trip, including accommodation, lift passes, and equipment rental, starts from around €1000 per person.
2. Grandvalira, Andorra
As one of the largest ski domains in Europe, Grandvalira in Andorra is a must-visit destination for ski enthusiasts. With its high elevation and extensive snowmaking infrastructure, Grandvalira boasts excellent snow reliability throughout the season. The resort offers over 200 kilometers of slopes, catering to skiers and snowboarders of all abilities.
Access to Grandvalira is relatively easy, with several airports directly linked by regular transfers, including Barcelona and Toulouse. The style of the resort is modern and purpose-built, offering a wide range of accommodations, restaurants, and après-ski activities.
In terms of costs, Grandvalira is known for its affordability compared to other European ski destinations. A week-long ski trip, including accommodation, lift passes, and equipment rental, can start from as low as €600 per person (if you time it right).
Read our Grandvalira, Andorra guide.
3. Font-Romeu, France
Situated in the French Pyrenees, Font-Romeu is known for its sunny climate and stunning mountain vistas. The resort offers excellent snow reliability, thanks to its high altitude and extensive snowmaking capabilities. With over 40 kilometers of slopes, Font-Romeu caters to skiers of all abilities, from beginners to experts. Access to Font-Romeu is convenient, with several airports nearby, such as Perpignan and Barcelona.
The resort style combines modern facilities with a charming Pyrenean atmosphere. Visitors can expect a range of accommodations, from comfortable hotels to cozy chalets. In terms of costs, Font-Romeu offers a more affordable option compared to other renowned French ski resorts.
A week-long ski trip, including accommodation, lift passes, and equipment rental, can start from €800 per person.
4. Formigal, Spain
Formigal, situated in the Spanish Pyrenees, is one of the largest and most modern ski resorts in Spain. With its high altitude and extensive snowmaking infrastructure, Formigal offers excellent snow reliability throughout the season. The resort boasts over 130 kilometers of slopes, suitable for all skill levels. Access to Formigal is relatively easy, with Zaragoza airport just a two-hour drive away.
The resort style is modern and purpose-built, featuring a wide range of accommodations, restaurants, and après-ski options. In terms of costs, Formigal provides good value for money compared to other European ski resorts. A week-long ski trip, including accommodation, lift passes, and equipment rental, can start from €900 per person.
5. La Mongie, France
Located in the heart of the French Pyrenees, La Mongie is a charming ski resort that attracts skiers and snowboarders from all over Europe. The resort offers good snow reliability, thanks to its high altitude and favorable climate. With over 100 kilometers of slopes, La Mongie provides a variety of terrain suitable for all skill levels. Access to La Mongie is convenient, with Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrénées airport just a one-hour drive away. The resort style is a mix of modern infrastructure and traditional alpine charm.
Visitors can find a range of accommodations, from hotels to self-catered apartments. In terms of costs, La Mongie offers a reasonably priced ski experience.
A week-long ski trip, including accommodation, lift passes, and equipment rental, can start from €800 per person.
6. Vallnord, Andorra
Vallnord, nestled in the beautiful Pyrenean valleys of Andorra, is another popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The resort offers good snow reliability throughout the season, thanks to its high altitude and extensive snowmaking capabilities. Vallnord is divided into two main sectors, Pal-Arinsal and Ordino-Arcalis, offering a combined total of over 90 kilometers of slopes suitable for all abilities. Access to Vallnord is convenient, with several airports within a two-hour drive, including Barcelona and Toulouse.
The resort style is a mix of modern infrastructure and a laid-back atmosphere. Accommodation options range from hotels to self-catered apartments, catering to various budgets.
In terms of costs, Vallnord provides good value for money. A week-long ski trip, including accommodation, lift passes, and equipment rental, can start from €800 per person.
7. Cerler, Spain
Situated in the Benasque Valley of Spain, Cerler is a hidden gem among the Pyrenean ski resorts. With its high altitude and favorable climate, Cerler offers good snow reliability throughout the season. The resort features over 80 kilometers of slopes, suitable for all levels of skiers. Access to Cerler is relatively easy, with Zaragoza airport just a two-hour drive away. The resort style is a mix of modern facilities and a laid-back atmosphere.
Visitors can find a range of accommodations, from hotels to charming mountain lodges. In terms of costs, Cerler offers a more affordable ski experience compared to well-known European resorts. A week-long ski trip, including accommodation, lift passes, and equipment rental, can start from €900 per person.
Ready to head to the Pyrenees?
The Pyrenees mountain range offers a wide array of exceptional ski resorts in Spain, France, and Andorra. Each resort has its unique features, from excellent snow reliability and ease of access to modern infrastructure and affordability. Whether you are a beginner or an expert skier, the Pyrenees ski resorts are sure to provide an unforgettable skiing experience. So start planning your next winter adventure and enjoy the best ski resorts the Pyrenees has to offer.
