Val d’Aran: A Complete Travel Guide
Hello travelers! A few years ago my family and I started a tradition of organizing an annual winter getaway. Since then, every year in December we pick a different area, usually not too far from our home city, Barcelona. We then spend anything between 3-4 days to a week exploring new places and spending quality time together. Last year we chose the beautiful region of Val d’Aran.
In case it’s the first time you hear this name, let me introduce to you this unique region hidden in the heart of the Pyrenees. Like a fairytale, Val d’Aran is filled with enchanting landscapes, cultural treasures and outdoor adventures, and it’s the perfect getaway if you’re near Barcelona.
Travelers looking to explore medieval villages, hike scenic trails or enjoy delicious local cuisine love this valley. We ended up spending 4 days exploring the area and we absolutely loved the winter wonderland vibes.
So without further ado, here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip to Val d’Aran. Don’t forget to download our free detailed guide for even more insider tips and itineraries.
How to Get to Val d’Aran
Getting to Val d’Aran typically involves driving or a mix of public transportation. We definitely recommend the first option, since it will give you much more freedom to explore the valley later on. The journey from Barcelona to Vielha takes about 4 hours by car (315 km).
From Barcelona, the quickest route is via the A-2 highway northeast, followed by the C-16, which takes you through the famous Vielha tunnel. Alternatively, you can take a train to the Lleida-Pirineus station, then catch a bus or rent a car to get to Vielha.
How to Get Around in Val d’Aran
The best way to explore Val d’Aran is by car, giving you flexibility to reach hidden spots and scenic viewpoints. However, the local bus service offers reliable connections between villages, making it convenient for those traveling without a car. Just keep in mind that some rural areas may have limited service, so check schedules here in advance.
When to Visit Val d’Aran
The ideal time to visit depends on your interests. We visited in December, which meant snow-peaked mountains, warm & rich meals, hot chocolate & skiing. If that’s your vibe, you will love it! But if you prefer the warmer months, Val d’Aran will have as much to offer as in winter. Each season offers different activities:
• WINTER (December to March): Ideal for skiing lovers, with the popular Baqueira-Beret ski resort offering excellent slopes for all levels.
• SUMMER (June to August): Perfect for hiking, nature activities and exploring historical sites.
Where to Stay in Val d’Aran
For our family getaway, we chose to stay in a wooden cabin in the forest. However, Val d’Aran offers plenty of options from affordable Airbnbs to luxury hotels. Depending on the vibe you are looking for, we recommend staying in one of the following areas:
1. VIELHA – The region’s capital, perfect for history lovers and first-time visitors.
2. ARTIES – A picturesque village with historic charm and nearby hiking trails.
3. SALARDÚ – Known for its medieval church and proximity to ski resorts.
4. BAGERGUE – One of the highest and cutest villages, offering peace and stunning views.
5. LES – A wellness-focused town with thermal spas.
We have put together a selection of hotels and apartments to help you organize your trip.
affordable
Val d’Aran chimney and views: Located in Les, this 1 bedroom-apartment offers direct access to a patio with garden views. It includes a balcony with mountain views, a well-equipped kitchen, a bathroom with a shower, and a seating area with a fireplace.
Parador de Vielha: This hotel situated in Vielha features a spa with facilities ranging from saunas to Roman baths and showers. The hotel restaurant is set in a circular room with panoramic mountain views.
MID-RANGE
Casa Montjòia: Vacation home located in Les Bordes. It features 3 bedrooms, a terrace with mountain views, a well-equipped kitchen, as well as 2 bathrooms and a seating area with a fireplace.
Hotel Eth Solan & Spa: Located in the heart of Vielha, this hotel offers mountain views. Rooms are clean and modern, and breakfast is available at the hotel’s restaurant. It also includes a spa area that can be reserved for an extra charge.
LUXURY
Hotel MIM Baqueira Luxury & SPA: This hotel is located by the famous ski resort Baqueira-Beret. The closest ski lift is only 450 m away! It has amazing mountain views, elegant and cozy rooms and a spa center featuring a hot tub, a pool and Turkish bath.
Eurostars La Pleta: This beautiful hotel has a spa and is located near the ski resort of Baqueira Beret. It offers luxurious rooms with views of the Pyrenees and it includes a spa, a gym and indoor pool. It also has 3 restaurants, cafés and a bar with terrace.
We really encourage you to book in advance, especially during high seasons like Christmas and the summer holidays.
Top Places to Visit in Val d’Aran
One of the best things to do in Val d’Aran is to explore the picturesque little villages lost in the mountains. They hide architecture gems, historical museums and gastronomic experiences. After spending 4 days in this valley, here is our selection of must-see places:
1. VIELHA – Vielha is the charming capital of Val d’Aran. Wander through its old town and visit the Church of Sant Miquèu with its famous Crist de Mijaran. Explore the Musèu dera Val d’Aran and enjoy a hot chocolate in one of its cozy cafeterias.
2. ARTIES – A charming village known for its Church of Santa Maria, a beautiful example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture with Renaissance paintings.
3. BAGERGUE – The highest village in the valley, and one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. Visit the Eth Corrau Museum and taste local cheeses at Hormatges Tarrau.
4. BAUSEN – A small village with an ancient beech forest, often called the “magical forest,” perfect for a mystical hike. Don’t miss the smallest cemetery of Spain, which only has one grave with a beautiful love story.
5. BOSSÒST – One of the most charming villages of the valley and definitely one of my favorite ones. This French-influenced town features the 12th-century Mair de Diu dera Purificacion Church and a scenic riverside promenade.
6. LES – Home to a thermal spa and the Nacarii Caviar Factory, where you can learn about sturgeon farming and taste local caviar.
7. SALARDÚ – The capital of the Naut Aran municipality boasts several historic sites, including the 12th-century Church of Sant Andreu, famous for the Christ of Salardú sculpture.
8. VILAC – Renowned for its beautiful green spaces and landscaped areas, this village is the perfect place for a peaceful walk. Explore its cobblestone streets and the Romanesque Church of Sant Fèlix de Vilach.
9. VILAMÒS – Considered as the oldest town of the valley, it is home to the museum Çò de Joanchiquet, an 18th-century manor house showcasing the traditional Aranese way of living.
Top Things to Do in Val d’Aran
The best way to experience Val d’Aran is by engaging in one of these activities:
• Thermal spa day – After a long day exploring, there is no better way to relax than in the natural hot springs at Baronia de Les, known for their therapeutic properties.
• Skiing – Book a ski day pass at Baqueira-Beret, one of Spain’s most renowned ski resorts, offering slopes for all levels. If you’re a beginner or looking to improve your skills, you can book a private class.
• Ice-skating – Immerse yourself in this fun activity at Vielha’s ice rink. You’ll love the music and the jolly atmosphere!
• Hiking – We recommend exploring trails such as the Saut deth Pish, a 35-meter waterfall, or the lush Carlac forest, home to millenary beech trees.
• Snowshoeing & Hiking adventure – This organized 2-day experience will allow you to discover fairytale landscapes in a fun way.
Where to Eat in Val d’Aran
A visit to Val d’Aran wouldn’t be complete without tasting some of their local specialties. Their cuisine has remained very traditional due to isolation. The main ingredients come from the garden, as well as hunting and fishing. The traditional stew called ‘Òlha aranesa’ is a great example and it’s definitely worth trying! Other dishes include ingredients that are easy to find in the valley such as mushrooms, wild berries or trout.
These are our top picks to eat and to buy local products:
• Eth Bistro Gastro Espai (Vielha) – A small but cozy Michelin restaurant offering superb food and wine. Perfect if you’re looking for a gastronomic experience.
• Era Coquela (Vielha) – Another Michelin restaurant known for modern twists on classic dishes. People keep coming back!
• Café Eth Pan Nòste (Vielha) – The perfect cozy bakery / cake shop for a yummy treat on a cold afternoon. We came here after visiting the town and loved the vibe.
• Brewery REFU (Vielha) – A very popular local brewery serving a wide variety of beers. Perfect for a chill evening or, as we did, for après-ski.
• Casa Rufus (near Arties) – A family-run restaurant with a reputation for flavorful, home-cooked meals.
• Unhola (Bagergue) – One of our favorites! Deliciously cooked meals served in a charming setting. The service is very kind and will help you make the best choices.
• Hormatges Tarrau (Bagergue) – A family-owned cheese factory where you can taste local cheese made from cow or sheep milk. We tried 4 or 5 different ones and loved every single one of them!
• El Portalet (Bossòst) – A friendly and spacious restaurant, offering creative and innovative cuisine. It is located in a renovated traditional Aranese house.
• Era Borda Benjamin (Salardú) – Set in a rustic warm ambiance, it offers deliciously cooked dishes from well-sourced ingredients. The welcoming and kind service makes the experience even greater.
FINAL TIPS
Val d’Aran is a destination that we absolutely loved because of its stunning natural beauty and rich history. Be sure to download our free guide for more tips, itineraries and insider knowledge to make the most of your Val d’Aran adventure.
Happy traveling!
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