Best Places to Ski in Spain

Spain is not just a country of sun and beaches; it's also a fantastic destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Expats and digital nomads who find themselves in Spain during the winter months have a variety of excellent ski areas to choose from. Whether you're a beginner looking to take your first ski lessons or an expert seeking challenging slopes, Spain offers a diverse range of ski resorts that cater to all ability levels. Here are some of the best ski areas in Spain that you should consider visiting.

Sierra Nevada

Ability Level: All ability levels.
Location: Near Granada in the Andalusian region.
Family Friendly: Yes

Sierra Nevada boasts the highest peaks in the Iberian Peninsula, offering breathtaking views and a long ski season, often extending into April. With over 100 kilometers of slopes, it caters to all skill levels and includes a snow park for freestyle enthusiasts. The resort is also known for its sunny days, making it a unique spot to enjoy skiing and snowboarding under the warm Spanish sun.

We Recommend: La Antorcha Restaurante. Located at the heart of the resort, this restaurant is known for its delicious local cuisine and cozy atmosphere, perfect for warming up after a day on the slopes.

Baqueira-Beret

Ability Level: All ability levels.
Location: In the heart of the Pyrenees in Catalonia.
Family Friendly: Yes

Baqueira-Beret is considered one of the premier ski resorts in Spain, with a royal seal of approval as the Spanish royal family often frequents it. The resort offers a wide range of runs, modern facilities, and a beautiful setting. It's particularly well-suited for families, with plenty of ski schools and leisure activities.

We Recommend: Ticolet Baqueira. This charming eatery is a favorite for its fusion of traditional Catalan dishes with modern twists, all served in a warm and inviting setting.

Formigal

Ability Level: All ability levels.
Location: In the Aragonese Pyrenees.
Family Friendly: Yes

Formigal is part of the Aramon group and offers a vast ski area with a variety of slopes to suit all levels. The resort is known for its lively après-ski scene and family-friendly facilities, including a children's snow park and ski schools. The scenic beauty of the surrounding Pyrenees makes it a picturesque spot for winter sports.

We Recommend: Vidocq. A popular spot in Formigal, Vidocq is known for its excellent tapas and lively atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day on the mountain.

Cerler

Ability Level: All ability levels.
Location: In the Benasque Valley, Aragon.
Family Friendly: Yes

Cerler is the highest resort in the Aragonese Pyrenees and offers stunning views along with a family-friendly environment. It has a good mix of runs for all abilities and is less crowded than some of the larger resorts, providing a more relaxed skiing experience.

We Recommend: El Molino de Cerler. This restaurant is a gem in the area, offering traditional mountain cuisine with a modern touch, and is especially known for its meats and homemade desserts.

La Molina

Ability Level: All ability levels.
Location: In the Catalan Pyrenees.
Family Friendly: Yes

La Molina is one of the oldest ski resorts in Spain and has a rich history of hosting international competitions. It's a family-friendly resort with a wide range of slopes and a dedicated area for beginners. The resort is also well-equipped for snowboarders and freestyle skiers.

We Recommend: El Torb Restaurant. Known for its cozy ambiance and excellent mountain dishes, El Torb is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering a taste of authentic Catalan cuisine.

Alto Campoo

Ability Level: Beginner to intermediate.
Location: In the Cantabrian Mountains, near Reinosa.
Family Friendly: Yes

Alto Campoo is a lesser-known gem in the Cantabria region, offering a more intimate skiing experience. It's particularly suitable for families and those new to skiing, with gentle slopes and a relaxed atmosphere. The resort also provides beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

We Recommend: La Pista. This slope-side restaurant offers a variety of hearty dishes to refuel skiers, with a focus on local ingredients and traditional Spanish flavors.

Valdesqui

Ability Level: Beginner to intermediate.
Location: In the Sierra de Guadarrama, close to Madrid.
Family Friendly: Yes

Valdesqui is a convenient option for those living in or visiting Madrid, as it's just a short drive from the capital. The resort is particularly good for beginners and families, with a range of easy to moderate slopes and a friendly atmosphere.

We Recommend: El Asador de la Sierra. This restaurant is known for its traditional roasted meats and cozy mountain lodge feel, making it a great spot to relax after a day of skiing.

Candanchu

Ability Level: All ability levels.
Location: In the Aragonese Pyrenees, near the French border.
Family Friendly: Yes

Candanchu is one of Spain's oldest ski resorts and is renowned for its beautiful alpine scenery and variety of slopes. It's particularly good for cross-country skiing and has a dedicated area for beginners, making it a versatile choice for all types of skiers and snowboarders.

We Recommend: La Zapatilla. This cozy restaurant offers a warm welcome with its traditional Aragonese dishes and a selection of fine local wines, perfect for a post-ski meal.

Remember to check the current COVID-19 restrictions and guidelines before planning your trip, as they may affect the availability and operation of ski resorts. Enjoy the slopes and the unique Spanish après-ski culture!