With an eclectic mix of traditional villages, modern metropolises and popular summer beach resorts, Spain is undoubtedly a visitor haven. Besides the summer fun and a plethora of museums, art galleries and classical churches, the country offers great winter skiing amid scenic snow-capped mountains and lush green forests.
Bequeira-Beret is located in the pretty Arán Valley and is home to the three ski resorts of Bequeira, Beret and Bonaigu. Collectively these resorts constitute one of Spain's most popular ski centres and are renowned for conditions suited to snowboarders and intermediate skiers. Set amid Romanesque churches and mountain lakes, Bequeira-Beret is a well equipped ski area with a pleasant, traditional atmosphere.
The ski resort of Candanchu can be found close to the borders with Spain and France and is considered something of a centre for the more discerning skier. There are slopes to suit all abilities and excellent terrain for snowboarders. Set amid the scenic Pyrenees, Candanchu village provides a good selection of modern facilities as does the nearby town of Jaca.
Intermediate and advanced skiers might want to try the Forimgal resort, located in the heart of the Pyrenees Mountains. Formigal and nearby Pamplona lie in the same valley and are especially popular with snowboarders. Formigal's purpose built resort town has a relaxed atmosphere, good amenities and a selection of nearby historic villages.
With the accolade of hosting the World Alpine Championships and offering some of Spain's best slopes, the Sierra Nevada ski resort is a popular choice among skiers. Located between the Costa del Sol and the historic town of Granada, the resort offers great skiing facilities, with the town of Pradollano providing accommodation and amenities, while Granada is also a popular choice of places to stay.
With over 30 international airports in Spain handling flights from a wealth of destinations, flying is the most convenient means of getting to Spain’s slopes. Trains run from Paris and Lisbon to Madrid and from Geneva, Paris and Zürich to Barcelona. For the cheapest option and you might want to consider travelling by bus; Eurolines services depart daily from London's Victoria coach station to more than 20 Spanish destinations. Those travelling by car can take advantage of Spain's excellent roads, which connect the country from north to south and with neighbouring countries. Meanwhile, ferries connect Spain with destinations such as the UK, Morocco and the Balearic Islands.
While skiing, snowboarding, ice-skating, bobsledding and so on are a great way to spend your winter holiday; they come with the obvious risk of injury. Before embarking on a ski trip to Spain it is highly recommended that you take out an appropriate travel insurance policy.
