Spain may be world‑famous for its beaches and historic cities, but it is also one of southern Europe’s most appealing winter sports destinations. Thanks to its varied geography, the country offers excellent skiing in both the Pyrenees and southern Spain, with resorts that cater to families, beginners, advanced skiers and snowboarders alike.
From luxury ski areas with extensive terrain to smaller, budget‑friendly resorts, skiing in Spain combines good snow conditions, modern infrastructure and a distinctly relaxed atmosphere. In this updated January 2026 guide, we explore the best places to ski in Spain, what makes each resort special, and who they are best suited for.
Where to ski in Spain
Baqueira Beret: Spain’s most prestigious ski resort
Located in the heart of the Catalan Pyrenees, Baqueira Beret is widely considered the best ski resort in Spain. It offers more than 160 km of skiable pistes, spread across Baqueira, Beret and Bonaigua, making it suitable for beginners, intermediates and advanced skiers.
Beginners will appreciate the gentle, wide slopes in the Beret area, while experienced skiers can enjoy steep black runs, freeride zones and excellent off‑piste terrain. With altitudes reaching 2,610 metres and extensive snowmaking facilities, Baqueira Beret is known for its reliable snow cover throughout the season.
Beyond skiing, Baqueira Beret stands out for its exclusive feel and high‑end services. A long‑time favourite of celebrities and the Spanish royal family, the resort offers luxury accommodation, refined gastronomy and a lively but elegant après‑ski scene. The surrounding Val d’Aran adds to the appeal with traditional stone villages, spa hotels and winter activities such as snowshoeing and dog sledding.
Sierra Nevada: family‑friendly skiing in southern Spain
The Sierra Nevada is the southernmost ski resort in Europe and one of the most versatile. Situated less than an hour from Granada, it combines skiing with cultural city breaks and mild, sunny winter weather.
The resort offers around 90 km of pistes across approximately 100 runs, with excellent facilities for families and beginners. Children under six ski for free, and family‑oriented zones such as Pista El Mar in Borreguiles provide themed snow areas designed specifically for younger visitors.
Another highlight is Pista del Bosque, a 200‑metre themed run where children ski past forest animals and igloo camps. For breaks off the slopes, the Chiki Club family restaurant offers child‑friendly décor and menus, making Sierra Nevada one of the best ski resorts in Spain for families.
Valdezcaray: affordable skiing in La Rioja
Set in the Sierra de la Demanda in La Rioja, Valdezcaray is ideal for skiers looking for a relaxed and budget‑friendly resort. With 22 km of pistes and a maximum altitude of 2,125 metres, it offers a good mix of green, blue, red and black runs.
Valdezcaray is particularly popular with families and beginner to intermediate skiers, thanks to its manageable size, short lift queues and competitive prices for lift passes and accommodation. Modern lifts and well‑maintained slopes ensure a comfortable skiing experience without the crowds found at larger resorts.
One of Valdezcaray’s biggest advantages is its location near Spain’s most famous wine region. After skiing, visitors can explore charming villages such as Ezcaray, enjoy local gastronomy and visit nearby wineries, making it an excellent option for combining winter sports with food and wine tourism.
Candanchú: tradition and cross‑country skiing
Candanchú, located in the Aragonese Pyrenees near the French border, is Spain’s oldest ski resort, dating back to 1928. It offers around 50 km of ski runs, ranging from beginner slopes to steep, technical pistes favoured by experienced skiers.
The resort is especially well known for its excellent ski school, making it a strong choice for beginners and families. Candanchú is also a reference point for cross‑country and Nordic skiing, with routes set in spectacular alpine scenery.
Its location in the Valle de Aragón provides impressive mountain views and a more traditional, authentic atmosphere. Skiers can also access additional terrain via a joint pass with neighbouring Astún, increasing the variety of runs available during a stay.
Skiing in Spain for beginners
Spain is an excellent destination for first‑time skiers, offering well‑designed beginner areas, professional ski schools and generally milder weather than many Alpine resorts.
Best ski resorts in Spain for beginners
- Sierra Nevada (Andalusia): Wide, gentle slopes, modern lifts and highly regarded ski schools, with the added bonus of sunny weather and proximity to Granada.
- Baqueira Beret (Catalonia): Large beginner zones, English‑speaking instructors and a well‑organised resort layout that allows beginners to progress safely.
- Formigal–Panticosa (Aragon): Dedicated beginner areas, slow‑speed zones and good value ski passes compared to many European resorts.
- La Molina (Catalonia): Known for its family‑friendly atmosphere, accessible slopes and excellent facilities for first‑time skiers.
- Astún (Aragon): A compact resort with a calm atmosphere, ideal for learning without crowds.
Why choose Spain for your first ski trip?
- Milder climate with more sunshine than many northern European resorts
- Affordable prices for lift passes, lessons and equipment rental
- Cultural appeal, with outstanding food, local traditions and lively après‑ski scenes
Tips for beginner skiers
- Book ski lessons early, especially during school holidays
- Rent equipment locally rather than buying
- Start on green and blue pistes and progress gradually
- Dress in layers and protect yourself from sun as well as cold
- Check snow conditions and resort updates before travelling
The best time to ski in Spain
The ski season in Spain generally runs from late November to early April, depending on snowfall and altitude. The most reliable snow conditions are usually found between December and February, particularly in high‑altitude resorts such as Baqueira Beret and Sierra Nevada.
For fewer crowds, early December and late March to early April are excellent alternatives. Early season skiing offers quieter slopes, while spring skiing brings longer days, sunnier weather and a more relaxed atmosphere. Snow conditions can be more variable during these periods, so it is advisable to check resort snow reports before booking.
Planning your ski holiday in Spain
Whether you are travelling as a family, learning to ski for the first time or looking for varied terrain and great value, Spain’s ski resorts continue to grow in popularity for the 2025–2026 winter season. With modern facilities, diverse landscapes and excellent food, skiing in Spain offers a distinctive and rewarding alternative to the traditional Alpine experience.