The 5 Best Ski Resorts nr. Barcelona (+ Winter Deals 2022/23)
The best ski resorts for a weekend on the slopes
By Duncan Rhodes
Quick Menu
Ski Resorts:
1. La Molina
2. La Masella
3. Baqueira
4. Grand Valira
5. Port del Comte
Tour Agencies:
– Estiber Travel
Ski Packages for 2023:
– Andorra Weekend
Strap on your skis and goggles, as we list some of the best resorts near to Barcelona, as well as winter sports agencies that will take the hassle out of planning a break on the slopes… plus this crazy Andorra weekender!
With its world-famous architecture, sensational cuisine, glamorous beach life and legendary party scene and hot hot summers, perhaps it’s no surprise that Barcelona is often overlooked as a winter sports destination.
However those who paid attention to geography at school might recall that the Catalan capital is just a couple of hours drive away from the Pyrenees (the 500km long mountain range which divides Spain from France and encompasses the tiny country of Andorra) where you can find snow-covered slopes from November to April nearly every year.
The Catalan capital is just a couple of hours drive away from the Pyrenees where you can find snow-covered slopes from November to April nearly every year.
In fact, there are over twenty ski resorts within easy reach of Barcelona for those looking to combine a city break with a snowboarding or skiing holiday!
Of those twenty, the closest are La Molina, La Masella and Port del Comte, which are only 2 hours by car or train from Barcelona airport or city centre, whilst the major skiing areas of Grand Valira and Vallnord in Andorra are not much further: the former includes the popular resort of Pas de la Casa, known for its lively après-ski scene.
Enjoying a weekend on the slopes…
For those willing to travel a little further the area of Baqueira-Beret is just over 4 hours away by car from BCN and offers probably the best skiing and snowboarding in Spain, with 4700 acres over six peaks served by 33 lifts.
In general their are several advantages of a skiing holiday in the Pyrenees versus the Alps: by far the biggest is that the slopes in Andorra and Spain are a LOT less crowded than in the big resorts in Switzerland and France – so if queuing for lifts every morning is a personal bugbear of yours then maybe it’s time you started looking around for flights to Barcelona!
The other major pro is that price-wise everything from accommodation to ski passes and ski and snowboard rental tends to be that bit cheaper.
The Pyrenees of course aren’t as high at the Alps and there is less snow, however all of the resorts near Barcelona have snow cannons on the pistes – so you’ll get your fix, even if Mother Nature doesn’t want to play ball.
Ski Resorts
1. La Molina (Spain)
Spain’s very first ski resort, La Molina opened in 1925 and offers 61 runs over a skiable area of 67 kms. Its facilities have been revamped considerably in recent times, and it is now considered part of one giant resort called Alp 2500 with the nearby town of Masella. One of the most accessible recreation areas from Barcelona, you can get there in around 2 hours by car, as well as take the train. Estiber Travel has some good deals on accommodation and passes, if you want to spend the weekend there. Or for a 1 day experience, simply purchase the Alp 2500 Ski Pass with return coach transfers, available on Tiqets.com.
www.lamolina.cat
1 Day Ski Pass & Transport
A convenient option for day trippers is the Alp 2500 Ski Pass.
The €103 pass is valid for both La Molina and neighbouring Masella resorts, and includes return transport to Barcelona (leaving 6:30am and departing 4pm), plus insurance. Reserve via Tiqets.com.
2. La Masella (Spain)
Slightly bigger than La Molina, this neighbouring resort is particularly famous for its night skiing opportunities. With 13 floodlit slopes, it is the largest floodlit ski area in the entire Pyrenees – perfect if you want to stay the weekend. For those going during the day, the aforementioned Alp 2500 pass also works here!
www.masella.com
3. Baqueira-Beret (Spain)
The largest ski resort in Spain is situated 300km away from Barcelona and takes about 4 hours to reach by car, and is considered one of the best in the country. The distance from the Catalan capital certainly places it out of reach of a day trip, but for a quality weekend skiing you would be hard pressed to do better. The majority of runs are blue and red, making it perfect for intermediate skiers, but with 99 runs on 146 kilometres of marked pistes you can find a slope for every level.---960pix.jpg)
As usual, Estiber Travel, has some great weekend deals on hotels and passes.
www.baqueira.es
4. Grand Valira (Andorra)
Around 3.5 hours away from Barcelona, Grand Valira is a ski resort made from six small villages in Andorra, which together form the largest ski area in the Pyrenees (even larger than Baqueira-Beret). The six ski areas are all connected by a modern express lift system, meaning the winter sportsman can access a total of 110 runs over 210 kilometres of alpine pistes. Twenty two black runs make this a great option for serious speed demons. There are also three snowboard parks. Check out your hotel options (with ski passes) here.
www.grandvalira.com
5. Port del Comte (Spain)
The nearest ski resort to Barcelona, Port del Comte is found in the mountain range of the same name, in the pre-Pyrenees. If has a total of 37 slopes (mostly blue and red runs) and 16 lifts, and whilst natural snow is not guaranteed, the resort’s 256 snow cannons to ensure plenty of fresh powder all season.
Estiber Travel has week-long and weekend hotel packages.
portdelcomte.net
Ski Travel Agencies
To book a skiing or snowboarding trip in the Pyrenees we suggest you take a look at the offers of the following travel agencies who specialise in winter sports, and can help book everything from chalets/hotels, to transport and ski pass and rental.
Estiber Travel
Established in 1986, Estiber have plenty of great offers on skiing holidays in both the French and Spanish Pyrenees and Andorra, whether you’re looking for a weekend trip, 2 day midweek break, or a longer vacation. They even organise a weekly ski bus from Barcelona every weekend during winter, perfect if you’re a BCN resident and fancy getting out of the city and onto the slopes. Check their website for more info and their latest deals/offers.
www.estiber.com
Ski Packages from Barcelona
1. One Day Ski Trip (w/ Transport)
The simplest and most economical way to go skiing, if you’re based in Barcelona, is to book the 1 day ‘Alp 2500’ ski pass with transport, that is available to book on Tiqets.
com. The pass grants you access to the huge combined resort of La Molina and Masella and includes insurance and ski equipment in the price (€103, in 2023). Best of all, it also includes return transport from Barcelona, so you don’t really have to do anything more than purchase it and turn up at the departure point to access 135 km of ski slopes. You’ll need to get to bed early though the night before, as the bus leaves at 6:30am. On the way back, the bus leaves at 4pm, getting back to BCN around 6:30pm.
BOOK 1 DAY SKI TRIP
2. Andorra Skiing Weekend (Winter 2023)
A great option for youngsters who want to combine a bit of on the piss with on the piste, this weekend skiing package departs once a month January through to March, and is run by one of the city’s most famous travel companies. They’ve put together an all inclusive package of transport to one of Andorra’s best winter resorts, plus accommodation, ski pass and equipment for the unbelievably affordable price of 290 euros (early birds only! Second release start from €350).
In winter 2023 the dates are:
27-29th of January (10am Fri depart, 10pm Sunday return)
10-12th of February (10am Fri depart, 10pm Sunday return)
24-26th of February (10am Fri depart, 10pm Sunday return)
10-12th of March (10am Fri depart, 10pm Sunday return)
Overall, a great choice for skiers and snowboarders who want to experience some lively après-ski, as well as making trails. Check out our partner’s website for more info and reservations.
The tours have limited space, so best to book as early as possible. If you’re ahead of time, you may even be lucky enough to find some ‘early bird’ ticket discounts…
BOOK ANDORRA SKIING WEEKEND
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The Best Ski Resorts Near Barcelona
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When thinking of the Mediterranean hotspot of Barcelona, a place of sun, sea, sand and sangria, the word ‘skiing’ often slips the mind – and definitely not ski resorts near Barcelona!
However, the Pyrenees Mountains are just a stone’s throw away, located on the French-Spanish border. Offering some of the best skiing conditions in Europe, and with some resorts within just 2 hours’ reach of the Catalan capital, you’d be crazy not venture up to the mountains for a short trip!
No matter your ability, whether you’re searching for powder or are a complete beginner, we guarantee our guide to ski resorts near Barcelona will equip you with all you need to know for the best day trip or short break. These are also some of the best ski resorts in Spain!
Top Five Ski Resorts near Barcelona
Masella
Only 2 hours away from Barcelona, Masella is renowned for being the best place on the pensinsula for night-time skiing, made possible by its powerful lighting system.
In total, the mountain has 65 slopes and nine black runs for experienced skiers looking for a challenge. An adult day ticket ranges from €39 during low season to €43 in high season. Season passes for adults are sometimes offered so keep on the lookout for these, as well as discounts for large groups and students. Masella resort is also home to many bars and restaurants where you can enjoy delicious crêpes, raclettes and fondue after a long day on the slopes– what are you waiting for?!
La Molina
La Molina is the perfect spot to enjoy a ski trip without breaking the bank. Joined with Masella, it is also only 2 hours away from Barcelona and easily accessible by car or public transport, here you can find 63 slopes to practice your skills, with runs for every type of skier. Moreover, La Molina is the perfect place for a family day trip or short break, and for those who aren’t exactly drawn towards skiing there are many other snow activities to sink your teeth into! In the snow park, you can find snowshoeing, snow segways and the biggest super-pipe in the Pyrenees! For only €34, you can enjoy 4 hours of skiing on this idealistic mountain.
Grandvalira – Andorra
Although slightly further away than the other skiing locations, Andorra’s famous Grandvalira Ski resort is definitely worth visiting for its unbeatable terrain. Both Pas de la Casa/Grau Roig and Soldeu/El Tarter/Canillo combined in 2003 to create the largest skiable area in the Pyrenees and Southern Europe with a total of 210km across 112 slopes. When bought online, full day passes for adults are only €48 and half-day ones only €37. Known as ‘the heart of Andorra’, this is a great ski area for both avid skiers and beginners…and with top après-ski bars, on and off the slopes, this is a resort you won’t want to miss out on!
Vall de Núria
Although a lot more modest in size compared to the rest, Vall de Núria mountain in the province of Girona is a perfect skiing hotspot for all, with a lot going on despite its size. The resort offers special family packages including a railway ticket, ski pass, and access to the Leisure Park for each person.
The Leisure Park itself is enough to entertain for hours, with different sized sledging slopes, tubing, zip lines and rock climbing!
As well as this, there is a ski school, equipment rental shop, group and private lessons, and a snowboarding park, making it the perfect place for beginners and families. The mountain is easily accessible via train from Barcelona-Sants station or from Plaça de Catalunya to Ribes de Freser, then a short journey on the mountain rack railway up to the resort. The whole journey only takes about 2 hours in total and the view from the mountain railway is breathtaking.
Port del Comte
Port del Comte is the closest ski resort to Barcelona, making it a very popular choice amongst skiers. With 37 slopes and 16 lifts, the resort offers a variety of runs tailored to everybody’s ability and is open every day from 9am-5pm. Plus, when the temperatures aren’t as warm, this resort is prepared with 256 snow cannons to ensure the slopes look like a winter wonderland all season! Similar to the other resorts, plenty of activities are available at Port del Comte such as tubing, sledging and snowshoeing.
During high season, adult day passes come at €35 and are €28 during low season, and with such a close proximity to Barcelona, there’s no excuse not to go!
Ski resorts in Catalonia are aplenty and offer great opportunities for some winter fun. Whether you’re interested in skiing, snowboarding, tubing, snowshoeing, or simply getting out to enjoy the fresh mountain air, these resorts are perfect for a day trip or short break from Barcelona! Use the Catalan capital as your base camp and hit the slopes for a day or two…there’s no excuse not to.
There’s more than enough ski resorts near Barcelona!
Author
- Bridget Langer
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Spanish ski resorts near Barcelona
Home New Year in Barcelona Spanish ski resorts near Barcelona
Spain’s ski resorts are not as famous as those in the Swiss Alps or the Andorran Pyrenees.
However, they are not nearly inferior to them either in quality or in quantity. In this article, we will tell you about the best ski resorts in the Catalan Pyrenees.
It may be a little strange to fly to Barcelona with ski boots or a snowboard, but the regulars of the Alpine resorts will be surprised. In Catalonia, close to the Mediterranean Sea, behind dark forests, fast-flowing rivers and high mountains, you can find snowy valleys, icy lakes, sparkling glaciers and the best pistes in the Pyrenees.
We will tell you about two winter resorts in Catalonia, where the pleasure of skiing is comparable only to gastronomic experiments in local restaurants.
1 Ski resort Vall de Nuria (Ribes de Freser)
Beginner skiers and skiers with children love the snowy Vall de Nuria. Here, of course, there are a couple of difficult tracks, but there are many more simple ones. At the resort, you can have fun in other ways. Here you will find daily activities, including skiing:
- on tubes (large air cushions)
- on sled
- even on huskies (in harness)
Getting there from Barcelona: from Sants station, take the Puigcerda train to Ribes de Freser station.
Then transfer to the Cremallera mountain train.
General information
Travel time: 2 hours from Barcelona
Piste level: beginner and intermediate
Cost: from 29 euros/day
Official website of Vall de Nuria resort
When the people of Barcelona want a change of scenery and get away from the sunny city for a couple of days to go skiing and sledding, they need to travel only 140 kilometers.
In a two-hour drive, city landscapes will change into mountainous ones, the air temperature will drop by ten degrees, and there will be snow and fun all around. Catalans have been coming to La Molina in the Cerdanya Valley for sports weekends for more than a hundred years.
La Molina is the oldest Spanish ski resort, officially opened to the public back in 1909.
Today La Molina is combined with the neighboring resort of Macella into one ski area called ALP 2500, a very popular place.
New Year in La Molina
There are more than enough slopes for the weekend – a single ALP 2500 ski pass includes more than 60 slopes of various difficulty levels. Freeriders prefer the northern slopes of Maseglia, the terrain of the mountains here provides excellent opportunities for off-piste experiments.
How to get from Barcelona: from Sants station, take the Puigcerda train to La Molina station, then take a special bus.
We advise you to book a hotel in advance, going to the resort. You can see the best options at the link on the proven Booking.com service.
General information
Travel time: 2 hours from Barcelona
Piste level: beginner to advanced
Cost: from 40 euros/day
La Molina official website
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How to avoid queues at Barcelona attractions. Tickets for Sagrada Familia and Park Güell skip the line.
- How not to be deceived by local taxi drivers. Order a taxi in advance with fixed rates online. The most reliable service for ordering a taxi is KiwiTaxi .
- Excursions in Barcelona with locals will help you to get to know this city for real. The best way to get comfortable in an unfamiliar city is to walk around it with a person who has lived here for many years.
- We advise you to take out travel insurance so that there are no unpleasant surprises while traveling to Barcelona.
- Barcelona City Pass is a one-stop card that makes organizing your holiday in Barcelona easier and saves you a lot of time and money.
- Hotels in Barcelona: is our selection and recommendations.
-
Bus Turistic is a tourist bus and a great way to get to all the necessary monuments of Barcelona quickly, with a breeze and comfort.
- Drimsim is a universal international SIM card and a free travel application. Best prices, fast internet and worldwide calls.
- TAGS
- near Barcelona
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Ski resorts near Barcelona: an overview of Alp2500 and Boí Taüll Resort – Barcelona10
What to do in Barcelona in winter? It seems that all the tourist paths have already been bypassed, all the sights have been explored, all the culinary delights have been tried. Our advice is to take skis and go to the mountains. The ski resorts near Barcelona are very good! We will tell you where you can go skiing, we will orient you on the slopes and prices.
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Barcelona and skiing is no joke!
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Ski resorts La Molina and Masella
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Ski resort Boí Taüll Resort
Barcelona and skiing are no joke!
So, if you are in Barcelona from December to April, and you have a free day, then you can go skiing in one of the two ski resorts nearby Barcelona: Masela, Molina.
Another cool option is the resort of Andorra Grandvalira (Andora Grandvalira) is located … in Andorra! Just 2.5 hours drive from Barcelona towards the Alp2500 resorts.
» READ ALSO — Andorra — the country of ski resorts
The best part is that these ski resorts are not yet very popular among tourists, so the queues here are quite small, and the service is well developed and the prices here do not bite. It should be noted that the ski resorts of Andorra are being discovered every year by an increasing number of skiing enthusiasts, so a rather large influx of people is expected here in the next few years.
Ski resorts in Spain start their work from about mid-December to the end of April. Dates may change slightly each year depending on the weather.
What’s most convenient is that even if the weather around Barcelona is good and it’s warm enough on the Alp2500 peaks, the resort provides artificial turf on some slopes, so you won’t be left without the pleasure of skiing in the winter season. And now we will tell you more!
Ski resorts La Molina and Masella
The most popular ski resorts among the Catalans are La Molina and Masella . The complex is located 150 km from Barcelona, which is about an hour and a half by car. The two resorts are connected to each other by cable car and share one common resort connecting Masella and La Molina, Alp 2500. Together, the two resorts have 133 pistes, making it the largest of the ski resorts in Catalonia.
Masella is located at an altitude of 1600 / 2535 m and has 65 mountain slopes, 9green runs, 24 blue runs, 22 red runs and 9 black runs.
La Molina is located at an altitude of 1700 / 2445 m, has 17 green runs, 18 blue runs, 19 red runs and 7 black runs.
Masella and La Molina offer ski and snowboard trails. There are also training schools with experienced instructors who will help both you and your children improve their skiing technique.
The slopes of La Molina are ideal for freestyle skiing as they have one of the best jumps in the Pyrenees. It is this resort that hosts international championships in mountain sports and snowboarding.
Masella and La Molina are family friendly. So that your children do not get bored, experienced instructors and animators are waiting for them in the kindergarten on skis and the children’s playroom, you can also ride in a dog sled together and even fly in a hot air balloon.
Bars, cafes, restaurants, spa treatments, swimming pool, sauna, bowling and much more are available to guests.
How much does it cost to go skiing in the Masella resort: the price of a lift pass for one day is up to 42 euros.
Lifts to La Molina cost one day from 41 euros.
There is also a general subscription for the Alp 2500 for one day, its price is up to 45 euros.
If you don’t have a ski suit or ski equipment in Masella and La Molina, they will pick you up and rent you out for the period you need. So renting skis, poles and boots for one day will vary from 19.50 to 31 euros. The price depends on the quality of the ski equipment you choose.
There is a bus every 30 minutes to the resorts during the winter period, in the morning from 08:45 to 10:00, in the evening from 16:00 to 18:30, departures every 15 minutes. The R3 train runs from Barcelona-Sants to La Molina.
Hotels and chalets can be found here.
La Molina: choose your hotel
Boí Taüll Resort
This new ski resort near Barcelona opened in 1990. It is located in the heart of the Catalan Pyrenees – the Central Province of Lleida. The height of the mountain slopes is 2750 m, and consists of 6 green slopes, 8 blue slopes, 25 red slopes and 9 black slopes.
Excellent prepared skiing, snowboarding and freestyle trails, as well as rock climbing and mountaineering enthusiasts will find many interesting routes for themselves.
Here you can go skiing with children, there are many experienced children’s instructors. Or the second option is to leave them in the children’s room with funny animators.
Boí Taüll Ski Resort : choose your hotel
To make your stay comfortable and unforgettable, the hotel offers: restaurant, spa, outdoor pool, sauna, massage treatments and much more.
Boí Taüll Resort lift pass price for one day will be from 39Euro.
This ski resort is about 4 hours from Barcelona and the most convenient way to get there is by car. You can rent a car through a special website. By public transport, you first need to get to Lleida, and then to the resort itself.
Order a taxi from Barcelona to Boí Taüll Resort
This is just a small part of the ski resorts of the Catalan Pyrenees – they are united by their beautiful nature, mountain air and unforgettable impressions.