When we buy a home in the Costa Blanca, we sometimes forget that Spain has beautiful mountain ranges which are capped in snow in the wintertime and offer some thrilling ski slopes which are just a short drive away from the sun and beaches of our coastal villas. Although we love the charm of the coast and the Mediterranean climate in can be great to occasionally escape our homes on the Costa Blanca and enjoy some winter weather.
Many people who buy houses in the Costa Blanca might think of a ski holiday as a bit of a dream but, in reality some of Spain’s best slope are in resorts within easy reach of the Mediterranean. The skiing in Spain also provides for both novices and those who are experienced skiers with a diverse range of resorts which cater for all skills, some family-friendly but also challenging black runs. The scenery in the Spanish mountains is breathtaking and the villages charming offering excellent value as ski destinations compared with other European mountainous regions and with no compromise on the quality of the holiday they can provide.
The Sierra Nevada is located close to Granada in Andalusia about a 5–6-hour drive away for the Costa Blanca, it offers one of the highest ski resorts in Spain and one of the longest skiing seasons in Europe. With 134 slopes and 112.5 skiable kilometres. There is plenty of great accommodation available, modern facilities, wide-open slopes as well as plenty of options for après-ski. It is a favourite for both skiers and snowboarders. It is possible to get more information and book ski-passes etc directly on their website: - https://sierranevada.es/.
The Pyrenees famously border Spain and France and is about a 7-hour drive depending upon where you live in the Costa Blanca and where you stay in the Pyrenees. You could also fly from Alicante to Barcelona and then drive to Pyrenees from there if you prefer. Baqueira Beret renowned for luxurious accommodation and challenging terrain. It is most popular for those who are experienced and looking for a sophisticated mountain getaway. Also in the Pyrenees Formigal is a family-friendly resort with a good mix of skiing options from beginners and intermediate to advanced slopes. It has a lively atmosphere and lots of après-ski activities. There are many other ski possibilities on both sides of the Spanish French border.
Possibly the most famous mountain resorts in the Pyrenees is the independent principality of Andorra. The culture is predominantly Catalan although it is not part of Spain, nonetheless it attracts many visitors from its neighbour and the economy is reliant on tourism. Andorra has two main ski areas, Grandvalira and Vallnord-Pal Arinsal which cater to skiers and snowboarders of all levels with gentle slopes for beginners as well as off-piste challenges for experts. Snowfall is generally reliable throughout the winter season and the area provides great value for money, a variety of bars, restaurants and nightlife options for relaxation after a day on the slopes. Additionally, for any non-skiers the resorts offer Snowshoeing, Ice Skating, Snowmobiling or Mushing in a dog-pulled sled through the stunning landscape. There are also thermal spas to enjoy some pampering and relaxation and, Andorra has duty-free status, so you don’t need to feel guilty about enjoying some retail therapy.
Plan ahead to get the best deals and avoid disappointment, if you are feeling a little too hot living in the Costa Blanca at the height of the summer then use this as a reminder to plan your winter-wonderland trip! Ski resorts can become busy so ensure that you also pre-book your ski and lift passes and equipment as well as any tuition and accommodation. Weather on the mountains in Spain can vary so check the historical weather for the time when you are hoping to make your trip. Ensure that you have plenty of both warm and waterproof clothing with you in addition to any ski equipment.
We may have chosen to buy a home in the Costa Blanca so that we can enjoy the warm Mediterranean weather and the relaxed lifestyle here. However, exploring other places getting to know Spain better and a change of climate and scenery be nice. A ski holiday in Spain offers the perfect contrast to our life by the sea and children will enjoy this winter wonderland as much as they do the sandy beaches.