Nestled between France and Spain, the majestic Pyrenees mountains offer a winter wonderland that’s often overlooked in favor of their more famous cousin, the Alps. But don’t let that fool you – the Pyrenees are a skier’s paradise waiting to be discovered. With over 50 ski resorts spread across France, Spain, and the tiny principality of Andorra, these mountains offer a diverse range of skiing experiences to suit every taste and skill level.
From the expansive slopes of Grandvalira in Andorra to the charming village resorts of the French Pyrenees, and the sun-soaked pistes of Spain’s Baqueira-Beret, the Pyrenees have something for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner finding your ski legs, an intermediate looking to improve, or an expert seeking off-piste thrills, you’ll find your perfect match here. And the best part? Skiing in the Pyrenees often comes with a more affordable price tag and less crowded slopes than you’d find in the Alps.
So, strap on your skis and join me as we explore the hidden gems, breathtaking views, and unforgettable experiences that await in the Pyrenees.
Best Ski Resorts in the French Pyrenees:
- 🏔️ For Extensive Skiing and Variety: Grandvalira (Andorra)
- 🌟 For Largest Resort in Spain: Baqueira-Beret (Spain)
- 🗻 For Highest Slopes in French Pyrenees: Grand Tourmalet (France)
- 🧘 For Skiing and Thermal Spas: Ax 3 Domaines (France)
- 🏘️ For Authentic Village Atmosphere: Saint-Lary Soulan (France)
- 🔬 For High-Tech Snow-Making: Peyragudes (France)
- ❄️ For Reliable Natural Snow: Cauterets (France)
- 👨👩👧👦 For Family-Friendly Slopes: Vallnord – Pal-Arinsal (Andorra)
1. Grand Tourmalet
- 🎿 Pistes: 100 km of slopes, 31 ski lifts
- 🏔 Altitude: 1400 m – 2500 m above sea level (altitude difference 1100 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 180 km from Toulouse-Blagnac Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: All levels, with excellent options for intermediates and freeride enthusiasts
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 80-150 (varies by season and accommodation type)
Grand Tourmalet is the largest ski area in the French Pyrenees, combining the twin resorts of La Mongie and Barèges. It offers a diverse range of terrain across 100 kilometers of ski runs, catering to all skill levels from beginners to expert freeriders.
The resort’s history is rich, with Barèges being one of the oldest ski resorts in France, dating back to the 19th century. La Mongie, on the other hand, represents the more modern face of Pyrenean skiing.
Grand Tourmalet’s main attraction is the Pic du Midi, a 2,877-meter peak offering spectacular freeride opportunities and panoramic views of the Pyrenees. The resort is also known for its reliable snow conditions and modern lift system.
Features: 50 km of Nordic skiing trails, a “Kidpark” for children in La Mongie, access to the Pic du Midi observatory, excellent off-piste and ski touring opportunities, and a variety of non-skiing activities including snowshoeing and paragliding.
Facts: The resort is part of the N’PY ski pass system, allowing access to several resorts in the Pyrenees. It hosts various events throughout the season, including freeride competitions. The contrast between traditional Barèges and modern La Mongie offers visitors a unique blend of Pyrenean ski culture.
Hotels in Grand Tourmalet:
Expensive Hotels:
- La Voie Lactée – Cozy chalet-style accommodation offering stunning mountain views and easy access to ski slopes.
- Le Chalet des Etoiles La Mongie – Charming alpine retreat featuring comfortable rooms and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
- Résidence Mer et Golf Tourmalet – Modern apartment complex with excellent amenities, perfect for families and groups.
Medium price category:
- Appt chaleureux 4/6 personnes au pied des pistes – Welcoming apartment accommodating up to 6 guests, situated conveniently close to the ski runs.
- Studio Mongie aux pieds des pistes avec balcon – Compact studio featuring a balcony and direct access to the slopes.
- Plein centre station, vue imprenable – Centrally located accommodation boasting breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Budget hotels:
- Studio 4 personnes maximum – Cozy studio apartment ideal for small groups or families, offering essential amenities for a comfortable stay.
- Studio La Mongie Tourmalet pied des pistes – Practical studio accommodation situated at the base of the ski slopes, perfect for avid skiers.
2. Ax 3 Domaines Ski Resort
- 🎿 Pistes: 80 km of slopes, 37 ski lifts
- 🏔 Altitude: 1400 m – 2400 m above sea level (altitude difference 1000 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 140 km from Toulouse-Blagnac Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: All levels, with excellent options for intermediates and families
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 70-120 (varies by season and accommodation type)
Ax 3 Domaines is a charming ski resort in the heart of the French Pyrenees, comprising three interconnected ski areas: Bonascre, Saquet, and Campels. Known for its varied terrain and authentic Pyrenean atmosphere, it’s a favorite among locals and international visitors alike.
The resort’s history dates back to the 1950s, but it’s the area’s thermal springs that have been drawing visitors since Roman times. The town of Ax-les-Thermes at the base of the resort has been a spa destination since the 13th century.
Ax 3 Domaines’ main draw is its diversity. From gentle beginner slopes in Bonascre to challenging blacks in Campels, there’s something for every skill level. The resort is also known for its excellent snow-making capabilities, ensuring good conditions throughout the season.
Features: 42 km of Nordic skiing trails, a snow park for freestyle enthusiasts, off-piste opportunities for advanced skiers, thermal baths in the town for après-ski relaxation, and a variety of non-skiing activities including snowshoeing and sledding.
Facts: The resort hosts various events throughout the season, including the “Pyrenees Freeride” competition. It’s part of the N’PY ski pass system, allowing access to several resorts in the Pyrenees. The town of Ax-les-Thermes offers a unique mix of ski resort amenities and traditional Pyrenean culture.
Hotels in Ax-les-Thermes:
Expensive Hotels:
- Village Vacances Le Tarbesou – Family-friendly vacation village offering comfortable accommodations and various activities for guests.
- La soulane – Quaint guesthouse providing a homey atmosphere and personalized service for visitors.
- Appartement au cœur de la ville – Centrally located apartment offering convenience and easy access to local amenities.
Medium price category:
- Résidence Domaine de la Vallée d'Ax - Location à la nuit, linge inclus – Spacious residence with nightly rentals and included linens for a hassle-free stay.
- Studio idéalement situé à Ax les thermes – Well-positioned studio apartment perfect for couples or solo travelers exploring the area.
Budget hotels:
- Hôtel Restaurant Le Bellevue – Charming hotel with an on-site restaurant offering picturesque views of the surroundings.
- Orry d'Oriège – Cozy mountain retreat providing a peaceful escape in a natural setting.
3. Saint-Lary Soulan
- 🎿 Pistes: 100 km of slopes, 31 ski lifts
- 🏔 Altitude: 1700 m – 2515 m above sea level (altitude difference 815 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 175 km from Toulouse-Blagnac Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: All levels, from beginners to experienced skiers
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 75-140 (varies by season and accommodation type)
Saint-Lary Soulan is one of the largest ski resorts in the Pyrenees, offering a diverse skiing experience across three interconnected sectors: Le Pla d’Adet, Espiaube, and Vallon du Portet. Created in 1957, it has grown to become a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
The resort’s history is deeply rooted in the traditional Pyrenean village of Saint-Lary, which adds to its unique charm. Unlike many purpose-built ski resorts, Saint-Lary offers a blend of modern skiing facilities and authentic mountain culture.
Saint-Lary’s main draw is its variety. With 100 km of ski slopes ranging from gentle beginner runs to challenging blacks, it caters to all skill levels. The resort is also known for its efficient lift system, including modern cable cars that connect the ski area to the village.
Features: Extensive snowmaking capabilities, a range of winter activities including cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, thermal baths for après-ski relaxation, and a charming village atmosphere. The resort is part of the N’PY ski pass system, offering access to multiple resorts in the French Pyrenees.
Facts: Saint-Lary regularly hosts international ski competitions. Its location in the heart of the Pyrenees offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including glimpses of the Spanish border on clear days. The resort’s commitment to preserving local culture while offering modern ski facilities makes it a unique destination in the Pyrenees.
Hotels in Saint-Lary Soulan:
Expensive Hotels:
- Mercure Saint-Lary – Modern hotel offering comfortable accommodations with easy access to ski facilities.
- Chalet Hygge Saint Lary - ressourcez-vous dans les Pyrénées – Cozy chalet-style accommodation providing a rustic and relaxing mountain retreat.
- Résidence Cami Réal – Upscale residence featuring well-appointed apartments and excellent amenities.
Medium price category:
- Apparts au Cœur de St-Lary - Piscine Chauffée et Sauna – Centrally located apartments with the added luxury of a heated pool and sauna.
- Gîtes Au Chant des Marmites – Charming gîtes offering a authentic Pyrenean experience with a homey atmosphere.
- Appartement 4-6 pers proche centre village – Renovated apartment accommodating up to 6 guests, conveniently close to the village center.
Budget hotels:
- Studio St Lary village-vue montagne. – Compact studio offering stunning mountain views in the heart of St. Lary village.
- Appartement au pied des pistes de st lary – Ski-in/ski-out apartment providing direct access to the slopes for avid skiers.
4. Peyragudes
- 🎿 Pistes: 60 km of downhill ski slopes, 17 ski lifts
- 🏔 Altitude: 1600 m – 2400 m above sea level (altitude difference 800 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 180 km from Toulouse-Blagnac Airport, one of the closest ski resorts to Toulouse
- ⛷ Type of skiers: All levels, especially beginners and intermediates, ideal ski resort for skiing holidays
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 60-120 (varies by ski season and accommodation type)
Peyragudes is a modern ski resort in the French Pyrenees, known for its high-tech facilities and sunny exposure. It’s formed by the union of two ski areas, Peyresourde and Les Agudes, offering a diverse range of slopes across both sides of the mountain.
The resort was created in 1988, making it one of the newer ski destinations in the Pyrenees mountain range. Its modern origins are reflected in its efficient lift system and state-of-the-art snowmaking capabilities, rivaling those of larger ski domains like Grand Tourmalet or even Andorran resorts like Grandvalira.
Peyragudes’ main attractions are its beginner-friendly slopes and consistent snow conditions, making it a great family resort. The resort invests heavily in snowmaking technology, ensuring good skiing and snowboarding conditions throughout the ski season. Its south-facing slopes also make it one of the sunniest ski resorts in the Pyrenees, offering great value for money for budget ski holidays.
Features: High-tech snowmaking covering 90% of the ski area, a dedicated beginners’ area with magic carpets, a snowpark for freestyle enthusiasts, night skiing on selected dates, and activities like airboarding and snake-gliss for off-slope fun. The resort offers lots of fun skiing options for all levels, from gentle slopes to challenging downhill ski runs.
Facts: Peyragudes was featured in the James Bond film “Tomorrow Never Dies”, with the altiport doubling as an Afghan airbase. The resort is part of the N’PY ski pass system, which includes other great ski resorts of the French Pyrenees. Its commitment to sustainable tourism is evident in its use of renewable energy and electric shuttle buses, setting an example for other ski resorts in Spain and France that extend across the Pyrenees.
Hotels in Peyragudes:
Expensive Hotels:
- Mercure Peyragudes Loudenvielle Pyrénées – Upscale hotel offering modern amenities and easy access to the Peyragudes ski area.
- La Pergola Aparthotel – Comfortable aparthotel providing a blend of hotel services and apartment-style living in Saint-Lary-Soulan.
- Lagrange Prestige L'Ardoisière – Prestigious residence offering well-appointed apartments and excellent facilities for a luxurious mountain stay.
Medium price category:
- Vacancéole - Le Privilège – Family-friendly resort featuring comfortable accommodations and a range of on-site activities.
- Vacancéole - Les Balcons du Soleil – Charming residence offering panoramic mountain views and cozy apartments for a relaxing ski holiday.
- Appartement 4 personnes Pyrénées Peyragudes Peyresourde – Cozy apartment accommodating up to 4 guests, ideally located for exploring the Peyragudes ski area.
5. Cauterets
- 🎿 Pistes: 36 km of downhill ski slopes, 15 ski lifts
- 🏔 Altitude: 1730 m – 2450 m above sea level (altitude difference 720 m), one of the highest ski resorts in the Pyrenees
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 190 km from Toulouse-Blagnac Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: All levels, with a focus on families and nature lovers, ideal for a ski holiday
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 65-130 (varies by ski season and accommodation type)
The town of Cauterets has a rich history dating back to Roman times when its thermal springs were first discovered. It became a popular spa destination in the 19th century, attracting notable visitors including Victor Hugo and Emile Zola, making it one of the most beautiful ski resorts in the area that separates France from Spain.
Cauterets’ main draw is its exceptional snow record, often boasting the deepest snowpack in the Pyrenees. The Cirque du Lys ski area offers varied terrain for all levels, while the separate Le Pont d’Espagne area is a paradise for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, making it a great ski destination comparable to the Vallnord ski area in Andorra.
Features: Excellent natural snow conditions, 36 km of downhill ski runs, 130 snow cannons for additional coverage, a snowpark for freestyle enthusiasts, 5 green pistes dedicated to beginners, and access to the beautiful Pont d’Espagne area for Nordic skiing and nature walks. The resort offers great value for money and is best suited for those looking for a mix of skiing and relaxation.
Facts: Cauterets is part of the N’PY ski pass system, which includes other large ski resorts in the French Pyrenees. The town is famous for its thermal spas and its production of “berlingots”, a type of hard candy originally made to mask the taste of the sulfurous thermal waters. Its location within the national park makes it a year-round destination for nature lovers, offering a unique experience compared to other ski resorts in Spain or the Andorran Pyrenees. With its 371 ski lifts across the region, the Pyrenees offer a diverse skiing experience that rivals larger domains like Grandvalira.
Hotels in Cauterets:
Expensive Hotels:
- Garden & City Cauterets Balneo – Modern apartment complex offering balneotherapy facilities and easy access to ski areas.
- Hôtel Le Bois Joli – Charming hotel with a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing mountain getaway.
- Vacances Perennes – Comfortable vacation rentals providing a home-away-from-home experience in Cauterets.
Medium price category:
- Cauterets Charmant Studio 4 personnes – Cozy studio apartment accommodating up to 4 guests, ideal for small families or groups.
- Cœur de ville TOUT À PIED 4 pers – Centrally located apartment offering easy walking access to town amenities and attractions.
Budget hotels:
- Joli studio entièrement rénové – Newly renovated studio providing modern comforts in a compact space.
- Studio Les Marmottes hypercentre de Cauterets – Conveniently situated studio in the heart of Cauterets, perfect for exploring the town and nearby ski areas.
6. Baqueira-Beret
- 🎿 Pistes: 167 km of slopes, 36 ski lifts
- 🏔 Altitude: 1500 m – 2610 m above sea level (altitude difference 1110 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 166 km from Toulouse-Blagnac Airport, 230 km from Barcelona-El Prat Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: All levels, from beginners to experienced skiers and freeriders
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 80-180 (varies by season and accommodation type)
Baqueira-Beret is the largest ski resort in Spain and one of the most prestigious in the Pyrenees. It offers a diverse skiing experience across three interconnected areas: Baqueira, Beret, and Bonaigua. The resort was founded in 1964 and has since grown to become a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
The resort’s location in the Aran Valley gives it a unique microclimate, often resulting in excellent snow conditions. Its Atlantic-facing orientation frequently provides the best snow quality in the Pyrenees.
Baqueira-Beret’s main draw is its variety. With 167 km of marked runs ranging from gentle beginner slopes to challenging off-piste terrain, it caters to all skill levels. The resort is also known for its modern lift system and extensive snowmaking capabilities.
Features: 7 km of cross-country skiing trails, heli-skiing opportunities, a snowpark for freestyle enthusiasts, extensive off-piste areas, and a vibrant après-ski scene. The resort also offers activities like snowshoeing and ski touring.
Facts: Baqueira-Beret has been a favorite destination of the Spanish Royal Family. It hosted the FIS Freestyle Ski World Cup in 2016. The resort’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of renewable energy and efforts to protect the local ecosystem.
Hotels in Baqueira-Beret:
Expensive Hotels:
- Eurostars La Pleta – Luxurious mountain retreat offering stunning views and easy access to the slopes of Baqueira-Beret.
- Hotel AC Baqueira Ski Resort, Autograph Collection – Upscale hotel featuring modern amenities and a prime location for ski enthusiasts.
- Hotel MIM Baqueira Luxury & SPA – Elegant resort offering luxurious accommodations and a world-class spa experience in the heart of the Pyrenees.
Medium price category:
- Hotel Val de Neu G.L. – Grand luxury hotel providing exceptional service and direct access to the ski slopes.
- Hotel Chalet Bassibe – Charming chalet-style hotel offering a cozy atmosphere and convenient ski-in/ski-out access.
- Eurostars Royal Tanau – Sophisticated mountain resort featuring spacious rooms and excellent on-site dining options.
7. Grandvalira Ski Area
- 🎿 Pistes: 210 km of slopes, 73 ski lifts
- 🏔 Altitude: 1710 m – 2640 m above sea level (altitude difference 930 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 200 km from Barcelona-El Prat Airport, 170 km from Toulouse-Blagnac Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: All levels, especially good for intermediates
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 80-200 (varies by season and accommodation type)
The resort’s location in the heart of the Pyrenees provides reliable snow conditions throughout the season, supplemented by an extensive snowmaking system covering 65% of the ski area.
Grandvalira’s main draw is its sheer size and variety. With 210 km of slopes ranging from gentle beginner runs to challenging blacks and off-piste areas, it caters to all skill levels. The resort is particularly well-suited for intermediate skiers, with an abundance of wide, well-groomed blue and red runs.
Features: 3 snowparks for freestyle enthusiasts, 6 children’s areas, night skiing at Sunset Park Peretol, extensive off-piste opportunities, a range of non-skiing activities including dog sledding and snowmobiling, and a vibrant après-ski scene, particularly at the famous L’Abarset in El Tarter.
Facts: The resort regularly hosts international ski competitions, including World Cup events. It’s also bidding to host the 2029 Alpine Ski World Championships. The resort is known for its modern lift system and has been investing heavily in sustainability initiatives, aiming to become a carbon-neutral ski resort.
Hotels in Grandvalira:
Expensive Hotels:
- Serras Andorra – Luxurious mountain retreat in Soldeu offering stunning views and easy access to Grandvalira ski area.
- Apartaments Shusski – Comfortable apartments in Encamp, ideal for self-catering ski holidays with family or friends.
- Hotel Roc Meler – Charming hotel in Canillo featuring traditional Andorran architecture and cozy accommodations.
Medium price category:
- Ski Plaza Hotel & Wellness – Modern hotel in Canillo with excellent wellness facilities and convenient ski-to-door access.
- Hotel Grand Pas – Well-located hotel in Pas de la Casa, perfect for those seeking lively après-ski atmosphere.
- Hotel Panda – Budget-friendly option in Pas de la Casa, offering great value for ski enthusiasts.
Budget hotels:
- Hotel Arbre De Neu – Cozy hotel in Encamp providing a warm atmosphere and easy access to nearby ski areas.
- Ransol studios près des piste ski HUT08226 – Convenient studio apartments in Canillo, situated close to ski slopes for maximum convenience.
8. Vallnord
- 🎿 Pistes: 100 km of marked pistes, 45 modern lifts serving the ski area in the Pyrenees
- 🏔 Altitude: 1550 m – 2625 m above sea level (altitude difference 1075 m), one of the highest ski resorts for skiing in the Pyrenees
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 200 km from Barcelona-El Prat Airport, 170 km from Toulouse-Blagnac Airport on the French side
- ⛷ Type of skiers: All levels, from beginners to expert freeriders, ideal to find the ideal ski resort
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 70-150 (varies by ski season and accommodation type)
Vallnord is a collective name for the ski areas of Pal, Arinsal, and Arcalis in Andorra, part of the list of the best ski resorts of the Pyrenees. While smaller than the biggest ski resort of Grandvalira, it offers a more relaxed skiing experience with less crowded slopes and excellent off-piste opportunities.
The ski area is divided into two main parts: Pal-Arinsal (connected areas good for beginners and intermediates) and Arcalis (known for its off-piste and freeride terrain). Arcalis is now part of both Vallnord and Grandvalira operations, while Pal-Arinsal remains separate, making it one of the unique two resorts setups in the region.
Vallnord’s main draw is its versatility for skiing in the French and Andorran Pyrenees. It caters to all skill levels, from gentle slopes for beginners in Pal-Arinsal to challenging freeride terrain in Arcalis. The area is particularly popular with families and those seeking a more laid-back ski holiday in the Pyrenees that extend between France and Spain.
Features: Excellent off-piste and freeride terrain, especially in Arcalis; beginner-friendly areas in Pal-Arinsal; hosts a round of the Freeride World Tour each year at Arcalis; offers a multi-day pass allowing skiing at all three areas, rivaling the Grand Tourmalet ski area in terms of variety.
Facts: Vallnord provides a good alternative to the larger ski resorts that are served by more lifts. It’s known for its less crowded slopes and family-friendly atmosphere. The Arcalis sector, in particular, is renowned among advanced skiers for its excellent off-piste opportunities, making it a resort best suited for those looking for challenging runs in the Pyrenees.
Hotels in Vallnord:
Expensive Hotels:
- Aparthotel AnyosPark Mountain & Wellness Resort – Spacious aparthotel in Anyos offering mountain views and excellent wellness facilities.
- Hotel & SPA Bringué – Charming hotel in Ordino featuring a spa and easy access to nearby ski areas.
- Font Andorra Hostel – Budget-friendly hostel in La Massana, ideal for young travelers and groups.
Medium price category:
- Hotel Del Pui – Cozy hotel in La Massana offering comfortable rooms and a convenient location for skiing.
- Yomo Patagonia – Modern accommodation in Arinsal with a unique Patagonian-inspired design.
- Hotel Marco Polo – Well-located hotel in La Massana, perfect for exploring Vallnord ski area.
Budget hotels:
- Hotel Coma – Traditional Andorran hotel in Ordino offering a warm atmosphere and mountain views.
- Hotel Princesa Parc – Family-friendly resort in Arinsal with extensive facilities and easy access to ski slopes.
How many ski resorts are in the Pyrenees?
There are approximately 52 ski resorts in the Pyrenees mountain range. These resorts are spread across France, Spain, and Andorra, offering a wide variety of skiing experiences for all levels.
Are the Pyrenees cheaper than the Alps?
Generally, skiing in the Pyrenees tends to be more affordable than in the Alps. This is due to less developed infrastructure and lower demand, resulting in more budget-friendly accommodation, lift passes, and overall vacation costs.
Where is the best snow in the Pyrenees?
Piau-Engaly in the French Pyrenees is often considered to have the best and most reliable snow conditions. Its high altitude (up to 2,600 meters) and geographical position protect it from wind and thaw, ensuring excellent snow coverage throughout the season.
Where is the best place to cross the Pyrenees?
The Col du Pourtalet is widely regarded as one of the most scenic routes to cross the Pyrenees. This mountain pass offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, making it a popular choice for travelers driving between Spain and France.
Is the French or Spanish Pyrenees better?
Both the French and Spanish Pyrenees offer unique experiences, and the preference depends on individual tastes. The French side is generally more developed with larger ski areas, while the Spanish side offers a more laid-back atmosphere and often better value for money.
