Spain is home to some of the most exciting ski resorts in Europe, offering a unique blend of skiing and snowboarding experiences. From the southernmost ski resort in Spain, Sierra Nevada, to the picturesque slopes of Vallter 2000, there are numerous options for every type of skier. Whether you’re planning a trip to Spain for a ski holiday or looking to find the best skiing conditions in the Pyrenees, you’ll discover that Spain’s ski resorts cater to all levels and preferences.
With over 30 ski resorts scattered across the country, including popular destinations like Baqueira-Beret and Candanchú, Spain offers a diverse range of slopes and modern facilities. The vibrant après-ski culture and stunning alpine scenery make it a top choice for winter sports enthusiasts seeking adventure and relaxation in the heart of the Sierra de.
Guide to the Best Spain Ski Holiday 🏆
- 🌟 The most prestigious: Baqueira-Beret
- 🎿 For beginners: La Molina and Masella
- 👪 Best for families: Formigal-Panticosa and Astún
- 🌃 For a night out: Sierra Nevada and Baqueira-Beret
- 🏂 Best for extremists: Cerler and Candanchú
- 🏔️ Best for views: Sierra Nevada and Vallnord
1. Sierra Nevada – The Southernmost Ski Resort in Europe
- 📅 Skiing season: November 30 – April 30
- 🎿 106 km of slopes, 21 lifts
- 🏔 2100 m – 3300 m above sea level (altitude difference 1200 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 39 km from Granada Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: All levels, sun-seekers, spring skiing enthusiasts
- 🏨 Average price/night: € 100 (Read more →)
Sierra Nevada is a slice of winter paradise in sunny Andalusia. As I carved down the slopes with the Mediterranean in sight, I couldn’t help but marvel at this unique ski destination. It’s one of those places where you can ski in the morning and hit the beach in the afternoon!
The resort offers a variety of slopes suitable for all levels, from gentle beginner runs to challenging off-piste terrain. I love the wide, well-groomed pistes that seem to go on forever. And let’s talk about the après ski – nothing beats sipping sangria on a sun-drenched terrace after a day on the slopes!
Features: 19 green runs, 41 blue runs, 50 red runs, and 8 black runs cater to all skill levels. The resort offers the highest skiable area in Spain with a vertical drop of 1200m, suitable for beginners to experts.
Facts: Features the largest skiable nighttime area in Spain and a world-class snowpark with the longest line in Europe. Offers a wide range of amenities including ski schools, restaurants, shops, and easy access to the cultural city of Granada.
Best hotels to stay near Sierra Nevada 🏨
⭐ Best hotels near Sierra Nevada
- Apartamento Blossom Sierra Nevada – A cozy apartment offering stunning mountain views and easy access to ski slopes, perfect for a ski holiday in Spain.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Inside Plaza Sierra Nevada – Located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada ski resort, these modern apartments feature fully-equipped kitchens, free Wi-Fi, and are just a 5-minute walk from the ski lifts.
- Todo Sierra Nevada – A comfortable hotel in Sierra Nevada, offering ski storage, easy access to the slopes, and a great location for exploring the area.
- Royal Country Nevada – A family-friendly hotel providing cozy accommodations, a restaurant, and convenient access to skiing and snowboarding activities.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Apartahotel y Apartamentos Boabdiles – A budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and apartments, located close to the ski lifts and local amenities, ideal for young travelers and groups.
2. Baqueira-Beret – The Largest Ski Resort in Spain
- 📅 Skiing season: December 1 – April 13
- 🎿 167 km of slopes, 36 lifts
- 🏔 1500 m – 2610 m above sea level (altitude difference 1110 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 166 km from Toulouse-Blagnac Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: All levels, powder enthusiasts, luxury seekers
- 🏨 Average price/night: € 150 (Read more →)
Baqueira-Beret is where I go when I want a taste of world-class skiing in Spain. This resort in the Catalan Pyrenees is a favorite of the Spanish royal family, and it’s easy to see why. The moment you step off the ski lift and hear the crunch of fresh powder under your skis, you know you’re in for a treat.
What I love about Baqueira is its extensive ski area and modern facilities. From wide, cruisy blues to heart-pumping black runs, there’s something for everyone. And after a day on the slopes, the lively après ski scene in the village is hard to beat.
Features: 6 green runs, 43 blue runs, 45 red runs, and 1 black run provide diverse terrain for all abilities. The resort is known for its excellent snow quality and varied off-piste opportunities, attracting intermediate to advanced skiers.
Facts: Boasts a modern lift system, multiple ski schools, and a snowpark for freestyle enthusiasts. Offers luxurious accommodations, gourmet restaurants, and a vibrant après-ski scene in the nearby villages.
Best hotels to stay near Baqueira-Beret 🏨
⭐ Best hotels near Baqueira-Beret
- Apartamento Renovado Baqueira 1500 – A newly renovated apartment in Baqueira 1500, offering modern amenities and easy access to the ski slopes.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Noguera de Alma de Nieve – Located in Baqueira-Beret, this apartment offers mountain views, free WiFi, and private parking. Features a terrace and is close to popular points of interest.
- Artiga de Alma de Nieve – A comfortable accommodation option in Baqueira-Beret, offering convenient access to ski facilities.
- Mike by Totiaran – A well-located hotel in Baqueira-Beret, providing comfortable stays for ski enthusiasts.
- Maladeta de Alma de Nieve – Another quality accommodation option in the Baqueira-Beret area, catering to skiers and snowboarders.
3. Formigal-Panticosa – The Most Modern Ski Resort in the Pyrenees
- 📅 Skiing season: December 1 – April 14
- 🎿 180 km of slopes, 37 lifts
- 🏔 1145 m – 2250 m above sea level (altitude difference 1105 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 170 km from Zaragoza Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: Intermediate to advanced, families, snowboarders
- 🏨 Average price/night: € 120 (Read more →)
Formigal-Panticosa is my go-to when I want to combine great skiing with a laid-back vibe. This resort in the Aragon Pyrenees offers one of the largest ski areas in Spain, and boy, does it deliver! I still remember my first time here, standing at the top of the mountain, surrounded by pristine white slopes and breathtaking mountain views.
What sets Formigal apart is its variety. Whether you’re a beginner finding your ski legs or an expert looking for a challenge, you’ll find your perfect run here. And don’t get me started on the food – nothing beats tucking into a steaming plate of migas after a morning on the slopes!
Features: 18 green runs, 39 blue runs, 34 red runs, and 6 black runs spread across four valleys, suitable for all levels. The resort is particularly good for intermediates, with wide, open slopes and good progression opportunities.
Facts: Features two snowparks, multiple ski schools, and a variety of on-mountain restaurants and cafes. Offers activities like snowmobiling and dog sledding, as well as spa facilities in some hotels.
Best hotels to stay near Formigal-Panticosa 🏨
⭐ Best hotels near Formigal-Panticosa
- El Estacho Panticosa – A charming hotel in Panticosa offering comfortable accommodations and easy access to the Formigal-Panticosa ski area.
- Ático Panticuto Panticosa – A cozy attic apartment in Panticosa, providing a perfect base for exploring the Formigal-Panticosa ski resort.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Apartamento Casa Francho 3 – A comfortable apartment option in the Formigal-Panticosa area, suitable for families or groups.
- Apartamentos Caperan Panticosa – Well-located apartments in Panticosa, offering convenient access to the ski slopes and local amenities.
- Apartamento en Panticosa – A practical apartment option for those looking to enjoy the Formigal-Panticosa ski area.
4. La Molina – The Oldest Ski Resort in Spain
- 📅 Skiing season: November 30 – April 13
- 🎿 71 km of slopes, 16 lifts
- 🏔 1700 m – 2445 m above sea level (altitude difference 745 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 156 km from Barcelona-El Prat Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: Beginners to intermediate, families, adaptive skiing
- 🏨 Average price/night: € 90 (Read more →)
La Molina holds a special place in my heart as Spain’s first ski resort. Nestled in the Catalan Pyrenees, it’s a stone’s throw from Barcelona, making it perfect for a quick ski trip. The moment you arrive, you can feel the history in the air, mixed with the crisp scent of pine.
What I love about La Molina is its versatility. It caters to all levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. And let me tell you, carving down the slopes with views of the Pyrenees mountains is something else. After a day on the pistes, nothing beats warming up with a steaming cup of hot chocolate in one of the cozy mountain cafes.
Features: 16 green runs, 23 blue runs, 28 red runs, and 7 black runs cater to a range of abilities. The resort is particularly good for beginners and intermediates, with some challenging slopes for experts.
Facts: Home to the largest superpipe in the Pyrenees and a modern snowpark for freestyle enthusiasts. Offers night skiing, a ski museum, and easy access from Barcelona, making it popular for day trips.
Best hotels to stay near La Molina 🏨
⭐ Best hotels near La Molina
- Magnífica Casa con Vistas Excelentes – A beautiful house with excellent views, south-facing orientation, plenty of sunlight, and a private garden, perfect for relaxing after a day on the slopes.
- Ático Dúplex a Pie de Pistas – A duplex apartment located right at the foot of the ski slopes, offering convenient access to skiing and stunning mountain views.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Apartaments Gran Vall – Comfortable apartments in La Molina, featuring modern amenities and easy access to ski lifts and local attractions.
- Hotel Adsera – A cozy hotel offering a welcoming atmosphere, located close to the ski slopes and equipped with a restaurant and wellness facilities.
- Hotel Solineu Sport – A family-friendly hotel with a sports theme, providing comfortable accommodations and easy access to skiing and outdoor activities.
5. Masella – The Resort with the Longest Ski Season in the Pyrenees
- 📅 Skiing season: November 23 – April 19
- 🎿 74 km of slopes, 18 lifts
- 🏔 1600 m – 2535 m above sea level (altitude difference 935 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 150 km from Barcelona-El Prat Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: All levels, night skiing enthusiasts
- 🏨 Average price/night: € 95 (Read more →)
Masella is where I head when I want to extend my ski day into the night. Part of the Alp 2500 ski area along with La Molina, it offers some of the best night skiing in Spain. There’s something magical about gliding down illuminated slopes under a starry sky.
But Masella isn’t just about night skiing. It’s a versatile resort with slopes for all levels. I particularly love the long, winding runs through pine forests. And the best part? Its high altitude and north-facing slopes mean great snow conditions throughout the season. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this gem in the Catalan Pyrenees.
Features: 9 green runs, 21 blue runs, 22 red runs, and 13 black runs provide a good mix for all levels. The resort is known for its tree-lined slopes and good snow conditions, attracting intermediate to advanced skiers.
Facts: Offers the longest night skiing in the Pyrenees and a snowpark with various features for freestylers. Features multiple ski schools, on-mountain restaurants, and is often combined with nearby La Molina for more varied skiing.
Best hotels to stay near Masella 🏨
⭐ Best hotels near Masella
- Apartamento Masella Pie de Pistas – A family-friendly apartment located right at the foot of the ski slopes, offering easy access to skiing and a cozy atmosphere for a perfect ski holiday.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Apartamentos Masella 1600 – Comfortable apartments situated close to the ski lifts, featuring modern amenities and stunning mountain views, ideal for families and groups.
- Cozy Apartment in Alp – A charming apartment in Alp, providing a warm and inviting space just a short drive from Masella, perfect for a relaxing ski getaway.
- Hotel Jaume – A welcoming hotel in the region, offering comfortable accommodations, a restaurant, and easy access to local ski areas.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Aero Cerdanya Ca L'Eudald – A budget-friendly hostel located in the Cerdanya region, offering a communal atmosphere and easy access to skiing and outdoor activities.
6. Cerler – The Highest Ski Resort in the Aragonese Pyrenees
- 📅 Skiing season: December 1 – April 14
- 🎿 80 km of slopes, 19 lifts
- 🏔 1500 m – 2630 m above sea level (altitude difference 1130 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 179 km from Zaragoza Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: Intermediate to advanced, off-piste enthusiasts
- 🏨 Average price/night: € 110 (Read more →)
Cerler is one of those hidden treasures that not many international skiers know about. Located in the Aragon Pyrenees, it’s the highest ski resort in the region. The first time I visited, I was blown away by the sheer beauty of the place – think snow-capped peaks as far as the eye can see.
What sets Cerler apart is its varied terrain. From gentle slopes ideal for beginners to challenging off-piste routes for the adventurous, it’s got it all. And the views? Simply breathtaking. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Aneto, the highest peak in the Pyrenees.
Features: 7 green runs, 17 blue runs, 27 red runs, and 9 black runs offer varied terrain for all abilities. The resort boasts the highest skiable elevation in the Pyrenees, attracting intermediate to advanced skiers.
Facts: Features a snowpark, multiple ski schools, and a range of on-mountain dining options. Offers activities like snowshoeing and ski touring, as well as access to the picturesque Benasque Valley.
Best hotels to stay near Cerler 🏨
⭐ Best hotels near Cerler
- Tu Hogar en Cerler – A cozy and welcoming accommodation in Cerler, perfect for families and groups, offering easy access to the ski slopes.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Prados de Velarta Cerler – A comfortable hotel located in a scenic area, featuring modern amenities and close proximity to the ski lifts.
- Apartamento Cerler 1540 – A well-equipped apartment in Cerler, ideal for those looking for a home-like atmosphere while enjoying their ski holiday.
- Rincón de Cerler – A charming hotel offering comfortable rooms and easy access to local ski areas, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
- Casa La Abadaa – A quaint accommodation option in Cerler, providing a cozy atmosphere and proximity to skiing opportunities.
7. Astún – The Family-Friendly Resort in the Pyrenees
- 📅 Skiing season: December 1 – April 14
- 🎿 50 km of slopes, 15 lifts
- 🏔 1658 m – 2300 m above sea level (altitude difference 642 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 177 km from Zaragoza Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: Beginners to intermediate, families
- 🏨 Average price/night: € 85 (Read more →)
Astún is my go-to resort when I’m looking for a family-friendly ski holiday in Spain. Situated in the Aragon Pyrenees, it’s one of those small resorts that packs a big punch. The moment you arrive, you’re greeted by the sight of wide, gentle slopes perfect for beginners and kids.
But don’t let its family-friendly reputation fool you – Astún has plenty to offer more experienced skiers too. I love the challenging runs on the upper part of the mountain. And the best part? It’s connected to the neighboring resort of Candanchú, giving you access to even more varied terrain.
Features: 4 green runs, 14 blue runs, 14 red runs, and 7 black runs cater to all skill levels. The resort is known for its wide, open slopes and good snow conditions, suitable for beginners to experts.
Facts: Offers a snowpark, multiple ski schools, and a variety of on-mountain restaurants and cafes. Features cross-country skiing trails and is often combined with nearby Candanchú for more varied skiing.
Best hotels to stay near Astún 🏨
⭐ Best hotels near Astún
- Canfranc Estación, a Royal Hideaway Hotel – A luxurious hotel offering modern amenities, an outdoor pool, and a prime location just minutes from the ski lifts, perfect for a ski holiday in Spain.
- Hotel & Spa Real Villa Anayet – This hotel features a spa and wellness center, providing a relaxing atmosphere after a day on the slopes, with easy access to Astún’s ski area.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Apartamento en Canfranc Estación – A comfortable apartment option located close to the ski lifts, ideal for families looking for a home-like atmosphere during their stay.
- Apartamento Astún – A well-equipped apartment offering convenient access to the slopes, perfect for those wanting to enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the area.
- El Retiro de Canfranc – A cozy accommodation option in Canfranc, providing a warm atmosphere and easy access to local ski resorts, including Astún.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Apartahotel y Apartamentos Boabdiles – A budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and a communal atmosphere, located conveniently for skiing in Astún and the surrounding areas.
8. Candanchú – The Historic Ski Resort of the Spanish Pyrenees
- 📅 Skiing season: December 1 – April 14
- 🎿 51 km of slopes, 26 lifts
- 🏔 1530 m – 2400 m above sea level (altitude difference 870 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 180 km from Zaragoza Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: All levels, cross-country skiers
- 🏨 Average price/night: € 80 (Read more →)
Candanchú is where I go to experience a slice of Spanish skiing history. As one of the oldest ski resorts in Spain, it’s steeped in alpine tradition. The moment you arrive, you’re greeted by the sight of charming mountain chalets and the sound of skis crunching on fresh snow.
What I love about Candanchú is its versatility. It’s perfect for families and beginners, with excellent ski schools and gentle slopes. But don’t be fooled – there’s plenty of challenging terrain for advanced skiers too. After a day on the slopes, nothing beats warming up with a steaming bowl of traditional Aragonese stew in one of the cozy mountain restaurants.
Features: 4 green runs, 10 blue runs, 24 red runs, and 7 black runs provide diverse terrain for all abilities. The resort is particularly good for intermediate to advanced skiers, with challenging off-piste opportunities.
Facts: Home to one of the oldest ski schools in Spain and offers extensive cross-country skiing trails. Features multiple on-mountain restaurants, a snowpark, and is popular for its proximity to the French border.
Best hotels to stay in Candanchú 🏨
- Apartamentos Candanchu 3000 – Located in the heart of Candanchú Ski Resort, these heated apartments offer a cozy atmosphere, ski storage, and stunning mountain views, making it perfect for families and groups.
- Apartamento Riglos Candanchú – A comfortable apartment option that provides easy access to the ski slopes and local amenities, ideal for a ski holiday in Spain.
- Apartamento en Pistas de Esquí – This apartment is located right on the ski slopes, offering convenience for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts looking to maximize their time on the mountain.
- Edificio Estanés II – A well-equipped accommodation option in Candanchú, featuring modern amenities and easy access to ski lifts and runs.
9. Vallnord – The Best Value Ski Resort in Andorra
- 📅 Skiing season: December 1 – April 14
- 🎿 93 km of slopes, 45 lifts
- 🏔 1550 m – 2625 m above sea level (altitude difference 1075 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 195 km from Toulouse-Blagnac Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: All levels, budget-conscious skiers, snowboarders
- 🏨 Average price/night: € 70 (Read more →)
Vallnord might technically be in Andorra, but it’s a favorite among Spanish ski enthusiasts looking for the best skiing in Spain. I love this resort for its diverse terrain and modern facilities, rivaling even the biggest ski areas in the Pyrenees. The moment you step off the lift, you’re greeted by panoramic views that’ll make you forget about Sierra Nevada or Baqueira-Beret.
What sets Vallnord apart from other Spanish ski resorts is its three distinct sectors: Pal, Arinsal, and Ordino-Arcalis. Each offers a unique skiing experience, from tree-lined runs to wide-open bowls. The off-piste skiing opportunities here are insane, rivaling those in Boi Taull or Candanchu!
Features: 7 green runs, 15 blue runs, 16 red runs, and 4 black runs spread across three sectors, suitable for all levels. The resort is particularly good for beginners and intermediates, with some challenging terrain for experts.
Facts: Offers multiple snowparks, ski schools with English-speaking instructors, and a range of non-ski activities. Features duty-free shopping in nearby Andorra la Vella and a variety of accommodation options from budget to luxury.
Best hotels to stay near Vallnord 🏨
⭐ Best hotels near Vallnord
- Rutllan & Spa – Housed in a traditional mountain chalet, this hotel offers convenient access to the Pal-Arinsal ski resort and features a heated outdoor pool and spa facilities, perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Apartaments Giberga – Comfortable apartments located in the heart of La Massana, providing easy access to ski lifts and local amenities, ideal for families and groups.
- Apartments Telecabine 365 – Well-equipped apartments just a short walk from the ski lifts, offering a cozy atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- New Duplex a 25m del Telecabina de La Massana – A modern duplex apartment located steps away from the cable car, perfect for those looking to maximize their time on the slopes.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Hotel Font – A budget-friendly hostel offering a communal atmosphere and easy access to skiing and snowboarding in the Vallnord area.
10. Port del Comte – The Hidden Gem of Catalonia
- 📅 Skiing season: December 5 – April 13
- 🎿 50 km of slopes, 16 lifts
- 🏔 1700 m – 2400 m above sea level (altitude difference 700 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 150 km from Barcelona-El Prat Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: Beginners to intermediate, locals, uncrowded slopes seekers
- 🏨 Average price/night: € 75 (Read more →)
Port del Comte is one of those hidden gems among Spanish ski resorts that not many international skiers know about. Nestled in the Catalan Pyrenees, it’s a slice of ski heaven away from the crowds you might find in more popular resorts like Masella or La Molina. The first time I visited, I was blown away by the peaceful atmosphere – imagine gliding down pristine slopes with only the sound of your skis cutting through the snow, a far cry from the busier pistes of central Spain.
What I love about Port del Comte is its variety, offering a mix of alpine skiing and nordic skiing opportunities, which is pretty unique for the region. It’s one of those Spanish ski resorts that caters to all levels, from beginners to seasoned pros, much like you’d find in larger resorts such as Formigal-Panticosa. The ski runs here offer something for everyone, and the cross-country skiing trails are some of the best in the Catalonia Pyrenees.
Features: 7 green runs, 12 blue runs, 14 red runs, and 5 black runs cater to a range of abilities. The resort is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and is particularly good for beginners and intermediates.
Facts: Offers a snowpark, multiple ski schools, and a variety of on-mountain dining options. Features cross-country skiing trails, snowshoeing routes, and is less crowded than some of the larger Spanish resorts.
Best hotels to stay near Port del Comte 🏨
⭐ Best hotels near Port del Comte
- Rutllan & Spa – A charming hotel housed in a traditional mountain chalet, offering easy access to the slopes of Port del Comte, along with a spa and outdoor pool for relaxation after a day on the mountain.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Bonito Apartamento en la Nieve – A cozy apartment located near the ski area, perfect for families and groups looking to enjoy a ski holiday in the Catalan Pyrenees.
- Lujoso Dúplex en Port del Comte – A luxurious duplex apartment just steps away from the ski lifts, offering modern amenities and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Hotel Avet – A budget-friendly hostel with a communal atmosphere, located conveniently for skiing in Port del Comte and nearby attractions.
- Golf Natura – A hostel offering a relaxed environment, ideal for young travelers and those looking to explore the beautiful Catalan Pyrenees.
- Moli de Dalt – A charming hostel set in a picturesque location, perfect for those wanting to enjoy both skiing and the natural beauty of the area.
FAQs About Skiing in Spain❔
What are the top 3 most popular ski resorts in Spain for a winter ski holiday, and how do they compare to other European destinations?
Spain offers around 30 ski resorts, with popular destinations like Sierra Nevada and Baqueira-Beret providing excellent skiing conditions and après-ski experiences.
How many of Spain’s 30 ski resorts are located in central Spain, and which ones offer the best access from major cities like Barcelona?
The best ski resorts in Spain are located in the Pyrenees, Sierra Nevada mountains, and central mountains, offering a wide range of terrain for skiing and snowboarding.
When is the best time for skiing in Spain, and how do Spanish ski holidays differ from those in more traditional Alpine destinations?
Spain’s ski season typically runs from December to April, with Sierra Nevada, the southernmost ski resort in Europe, often offering skiing conditions into late spring.
