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The Pyrenees are a mountain range shared by France, Spain, and Andorra. They may be smaller than the Alps, but they offer great skiing, beautiful views, and a mix of cultures you won’t find anywhere else. From the wide, modern resorts of Andorra to the quiet villages in France and the sunny slopes of Spain, the Pyrenees have something for everyone. You’ll find gentle runs for beginners, long cruisers for families, fun terrain for freeriders, and lively resort towns to enjoy after skiing.
This guide is divided by country: France, Spain, and Andorra. Each section gives a quick overview of the ski areas, highlights the best places to ski, and includes useful tips for planning your trip, like when to go and what documents you might need.
The Pyrenees are a mountain chain in southwest Europe stretching roughly 430 km/267 mi from the Mediterranean Sea to the Bay of Biscay on the Atlantic. They form the natural frontier between France and Spain, with Andorra nestled in the middle.
The French Pyrenees blend traditional spa towns with high altitude ski bowls. Western resorts get regular snowfall from Atlantic storms, while the eastern Cerdagne region sees plenty of sunshine. Large, connected areas like Grand Tourmalet and Saint-Lary sit alongside smaller, snow-reliable gems such as Cauterets and Piau-Engaly. Expect everything from tree lined beginner runs to open, high-mountain terrain, plus authentic villages and prices that often beat the Alps.
Spain’s Pyrenees stretch across Aragón (Tena & Benasque valleys) and Catalonia (Val d’Aran, Pallars Sobirà & La Cerdanya). Standout resorts include Baqueira-Beret in the snow-sure Val d’Aran, the wide-reaching Formigal-Panticosa, and the linked domain of La Molina and Masella (Alp 2500). The region offers sunny cruising, efficient lift networks, lively resort towns, and a strong food scene, often with milder weather than the Alps.
Small country, big skiing. Grandvalira is the largest ski area in the Pyrenees (~210 km/130 mi of runs), with modern lifts, well-kept pistes, and one unified ski pass. Nearby Pal-Arinsal offers friendly terrain ideal for beginners and intermediates, while Ordino Arcalís is known for its reliable snow and freeride terrain. Access is easy via Toulouse or Barcelona.
Pal-Arinsal is part of the Vallnord ski area and offers around 63 km/39 mi of slopes with a vertical drop of over 1,000 m/3,280 ft. It's a top pick for beginners and families thanks to its long, gentle blue runs and relaxed atmosphere. The resort sits in a sunny bowl and connects easily to the village of Arinsal, known for its affordable lodging and lively après-ski scene. With Andorra la Vella just a short drive away, it’s a convenient and great-value base for exploring the Pyrenees. The nearest airports are Barcelona and Toulouse, each roughly three hours away.
Located in Spain's Val d'Aran, Baqueira-Beret is the country’s largest and most snow sure resort. With 166 km/103 mi of pistes across three main sectors (Baqueira, Beret, and Bonaigua), it suits skiers of all levels. The resort also hosts the Freeride World Tour and features a lively après-ski scene. Excellent grooming, modern lifts, and reliable snowmaking ensure great conditions throughout the season. The closest airports are Toulouse (169 km), Lleida (160 km), and Barcelona (320 km).
Soldeu is one of the key bases in the Grandvalira ski area and is known for its excellent ski school and wide range of terrain. With modern lifts and easy access to both beginner and advanced runs, it’s a popular choice for families and mixed-ability groups. The town has a friendly feel with good accommodation and après-ski options. Barcelona, Carcassone and Toulouse are the nearest major airports.
Pas de la Casa is part of the Grandvalira domain and sits right on the French-Andorran border. Known for its affordable prices and vibrant nightlife, it's a favourite among young skiers and snowboarders. The resort features extensive intermediate terrain and good snow reliability. The nearest airport is Toulouse, making it one of the most accessible Andorran resorts.
La Molina is Spain's oldest ski resort and shares a 145 km/90 mi ski domain with Masella (Alp 2500). It’s especially good for beginners and families, with easy runs and a large snow park. Its location, just 90 minutes from Barcelona, makes it ideal for a weekend ski break. The resort also regularly hosts international events, adding to its reputation.
Saint-Lary combines traditional village charm with a large and varied ski area of around 100 km/62 mi. It’s a great all rounder for families, beginners, and advanced skiers alike. The resort has excellent facilities for kids and a lively town with plenty of dining options. It’s also known for producing some of France’s top snowboarders. Nearest airports include Tarbes, Pau, and Toulouse.
Formigal is a large, purpose-built resort in the Aragonese Pyrenees with 143 km/88 mi of varied terrain. It offers wide blues, steep blacks, and good off-piste options. Advanced snowmaking and modern lifts make it one of Spain’s most dependable resorts. The après-ski scene is lively, especially around Marchica. Formigal is easily reached from Zaragoza, Pau, or Toulouse airports.
Peyragudes is a family-friendly resort in the French Pyrenees with 42 km/26 mi of slopes across two mountain faces. The area is well-suited for beginners and intermediates, with wide pistes and good snow conditions. Since the launch of the Skyvall gondola in 2020, access from the nearby village of Loudenvielle has improved significantly. The resort also offers snow parks and scenic views. The closest airport is Tarbes-Lourdes.
Aramón Cerler is one of the highest resorts in the Pyrenees, with most terrain above 2,000 m/6,561 ft and the top lift reaching 2,630 m/8,628 ft. The resort boasts 80 km/49 mi of slopes, including the Pyrenees' longest run at 9 km/5.59 mi. It's great for all abilities and features scenic views of over 60 peaks above 3,000 m/9,842 ft. The traditional village setting adds charm, and there are plenty of restaurants and newer hotels. The closest airport is Lleida-Alguaire.
Les Angles is a well-developed ski resort in the eastern French Pyrenees, known for its scenic mix of forested slopes and open alpine terrain. With around 55 km/34 mi of pistes and a top elevation of 2,376 m/7,795 ft, it offers a good variety for beginners and intermediates, plus some steeper descents for more confident skiers. The village sits right at the base of the slopes, giving it a convenient ski-in/ski-out feel. Its traditional charm, reliable snow cover, and family-friendly atmosphere make it a popular choice for holidaymakers from southern France and northern Spain. The nearest airport is Perpignan, around 100 km away.
The best time to ski in the Pyrenees depends on where you go, but mid-January to early March generally offers the most reliable snow conditions. Each region has its own seasonal patterns, with differences in weather, crowds, and snow reliability worth keeping in mind.
British citizens can travel to France or Spain, both part of the Schengen Area, for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa for tourism purposes. However, since the UK is no longer part of the European Union, some entry requirements have changed. Andorra is not part of the EU or the Schengen Area, but UK travellers also do not need a visa for short stays. That said, travel to Andorra requires passing through France or Spain, so time spent in Andorra still counts toward your 90 day Schengen limit.
Comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses is strongly recommended. While the UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) provides access to necessary state healthcare in France and Spain, it does not cover Andorra and is not a substitute for full insurance.
Please note that entry requirements and travel regulations can change over time. For up-to-date passport and visa information, feel free to visit the British government's travel advice website before planning your trip.
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