"By royal appointment" Founded in 1964 by Luis Arias, a former Spanish ski racer, Baqueira-Beret is a relatively young ski resort in Catalonia in the Pyrenean Mountains. Boasting 115km of pistes, it is one of the largest resorts on the Spanish side of the Pyrenees and clientele such as the King of Spain frequently ski here. It is largely geared for the Spanish market which lends itself to a really different experience for skiing holidays. Set in the Val D'Aran, strict planning regulations have resulted in tasteful construction, in keeping with the older villages and hamlets dotted around the valley.

The ski area The ski area starts at 1500 metres and goes to 2500m at the peak. The total area consists of 115km and consists of 3 main areas: Baqueira is home to the main beginner area. It has great slopes for newer skiers to progress on and has a great network of blue and red pistes. Beret has great skiing, wonderful views, and is a relaxing spot to catch the sun. Bonaigua tends to be a lot quieter, but has just as many fantastic runs.

The lifts are mainly chairs - and queues in Baqueira are as short as you can find.

The majority of pistes throughout the resort are blues and reds, but for the more experienced, the resort also offers plenty of challenges. There are some fantastic itinerary runs and off-piste opportunities (take a guide) and freestylers are also catered for, with a terrain park in Beret. Heli-skiing can be arranged - please ask for details.

Snow record 2008/09 had the best snow for 50 years, but there is great snow cannon coverage if required. The orientation of the valley ensures good conditions year after year.

Apres-ski The pace and rhythm of the Aran valley is typically Spanish. Apres-ski is low-key. The resort centre is home to several restaurants and tapas bars but to experience a real Pyrenean atmosphere you could explore the villages further down the valley, where the quality of dining is high and there are great bars. Any serious night owls should head to Tiffany's nightclub (formerly Pascha), in the main Baqueira car park, where things get lively from midnight often until the sun comes up.

Non-ski activities Baqueira offers activities for non-skiers such as dog-sledding, snowmobiling, and visiting thermal baths.
Please contact us for details.