Catalan Pyrenees: a winter destination

Winter, along with spring, is an ideal season to enjoy the Catalan Pyrenees, with a wide range of exciting experiences on offer to visitors. With vast natural areas from Val d’Aran to Cap de Creus and a rich cultural heritage, the Catalan Pyrenees are a winter destination with activities for everyone. 

Feel the snow crunch under your feet, hit the many miles of slopes, listen to the soothing sounds of the mountain forests, discover the Romanesque heritage that our ancestors created in the mountains and taste delicious mountain cuisine. All this—and so much more—awaits you in Catalonia this winter.

Walking through the mountains is a very attractive option for hiking lovers, with over 1,000 miles of signposted trails that lead visitors to stunning natural spaces and a world of history, heritage and Catalan traditions. 

Here are two proposals for seasoned hikers: One is the Transversal Trail (GR1), which starts in the Mediterranean and crosses the entire Iberian peninsula from east to west, as far as Fisterra. Trekkers will enjoy the Pyrenees Trail (GR11), although we recommend experiencing it at the beginning or end of the season. Always check its condition before you set off. We also highly recommend being accompanied by a high mountain guide.

If you love walking through natural spaces and combining hiking with Catalan heritage, why not try some of these themed routes? The first is the route through the Volcanic Field of Garrotxa Natural Park, where you can walk through the Fageda d’en Jordà, the volcano and the hermitage of Santa Margarida. The other is theCamin Reiau in Val d’Aran, 150 km of paths linking the 33 villages of the valley, or the Ruta de l’Ermità, suitable for families and which largely covers the Cadí-Moixeró Natural Park. 

And if you’re looking to add a cultural touch to your winter getaway, make sure to take a look at our cultural walks. These walks will take you along a unique route through Berguedà to discover Gaudí's architectural works in the area, and you can even spend your vacation painting like Picasso in Gósol!.

For those who are into more dynamic activities, the diversity of the landscape allows you to practice sports on land, water or air, helping you get to know the territory from a whole new angle. Also, the legendary peaks such as the Pica d’Estats, the Besiberris or the Montardo are attractions for alpinists and climbers who want to contemplate incredible views in silence.

For a quieter, enriching getaway, the Pyrenees offer visitors a wide range of prestigious architectural and cultural attractions, including heritage venues, museums, festivities and traditions. The landscape of the Pyrenees has been a great source of inspiration for writers, painters and artists in many other fields.

Its paths reveal Romanesque churches, monasteries, castles, medieval towns and over 50 museums that invite visitors to dive into the history of the surrounding landscape. From Romanesque mountain monasteries, to museums of ancient trades, to parks and gardens that combine nature and architecture in perfect harmony. 

A top attraction is local cuisine. Hot and hearty high mountain dishes to revive visitors after a day out in the cold: vianda, girella, mushrooms, game, etc. All cooked slowly, without haste, preserving the aromas of the fresh, local produce. The table is set for everyone to eat together, next to the fireplace, and to wash it all down there’s a range of mountain wines such as the DO Costers del Segre or DO Empordà that pair perfectly with these dishes. 

The Catalan Pyrenees are packed full of traditions that preserve the essence of authentic rural life. This is reflected in their festivals, expressions of living culture and filled with legends, food, dances and popular songs that have given the Pyrenean towns their own character and spirit. 

To enjoy an ideal stay, there are a host of local companies that can provide full details of the trip. Choose the Catalan Pyrenees as your next winter destination.