Barcelona does just about have it all. Not only does it have the fantastic summertime activities we all know and love, it offers a close proximity to some great ski slopes for wintertime fun. The Catalan capital is just a couple of hours drive away from the Pyrenees. The Pyrenees offer a great alternative to the better-known Alps, with generally quieter slopes. You can find snowy slopes on this 500 km long mountain range which divides Spain from France from November to April nearly every year.
La Molina
This is one of the most popular ski destinations for people based in Barcelona. Located just two hours away, easily accessible by train, bus or car. There are a number of buses operating regular day trips to La Molina throughout the season. You can purchase a bus ticket and ski pass for as little as €42 per person! There are 63 slopes for every level type, as well as a snow park, including the biggest super-pipe in the Pyrenees. There are activities for non-skiers too such as snowshoeing or Segways on snow, husky rides as well as official ski-schools for beginners or those looking to improve their skills.
La Masella
La Masella is also only two hours from Barcelona, and located in the next valley from La Molina and easily accessible by train, bus or car. It’s famous for its nighttime skiing offered on the weekends from 6:30pm to 9pm, made possible by its powerful lighting system that illuminates 13 slopes of the resort. The mountain has 65 slopes total, and nine black runs for the more advanced skiers. The resort offers accommodation options of all types: hotels, youth hostels, apartments, campgrounds, and bungalows. You can get an adult day ticket for €45 and there are discounts for consecutive day tickets. Season passes for adults and student discounts are sometimes offered, too!
Port del Comte
This resort is popular due to its location nearby Barcelona, however, it can only be accessed by car. Port del Comte has 37 slopes with a mix of levels for every type of skier. Adult day passes are €37 during high season, and €30 during low season, and it’s open every day from 9am-5pm. Port del Comte offers additional activities such as tubing, sledging, snowshoeing, dog sledging, and a snow park with jumps for all different skill levels like the other resorts.
Vall de Nuria
Vall de Núria is a much smaller mountain compared to the previous resorts, located in the province of Girona close to the French border and two hours away from Barcelona. The biggest perk is that it’s accessible by train from Barcelona city center, changing at Ribes de Freser where you can catch a rail train up to the mountain. With only 11 slopes, it’s perfect beginners. It offers a ski school, equipment rental shop, group and private lessons, and a snowboarding park. The resort also offers special packages including a railway ticket, ski pass, and access to the Leisure Park. It’s a great day trip for non-skiers as well, as the beautiful mountain views and other winter activities make it a worthwhile journey on their own!
Grandvalira
Located in Andorra, the Grandvalira ski resort is a little farther than other locations, but totally worth it. Grandvalira is just a three-hour drive away from Barcelona, and is one of the most reputable ski resorts in the world. There are also bus services that run regular trips from Barcelona. It has the largest skiable area in the Pyrenees with a total of 112 slopes. There are various activities available as well and many difference ski schools. It’s a great ski area for a short weekend break for those willing to go the extra mile, it’s well worth the effort!
Posted in The best of Barcelona, Things to do in Barcelona
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