The Ski Resort
The Formigal-Panticosa ski area is located in the Pyrenees in north-eastern Spain. It stretches over six valleys and offers a total of 176 kilometres of slopes and 37 lifts. The highest elevation is the Tres Hombres peak at 2250 metres. When visiting, it is important to note that the two sub-areas of Formigal and Panticosa are not connected.
Formigal
As all valleys are easily accessible by car and connected by a ski bus, there are many possibilities to get into the ski area. Mostly, however, the entrance directly in Formigal is chosen. There are two shorter drag lifts close to the valley, which are ideal for beginners. There is also a toboggan run. Everyone else gets directly into the ski area with the Sallent lift. Most of the slopes here are marked in red. It is recommended to go a little further with the Crestas lift, because then a breathtaking panorama as well as great red category slopes await you. The Bosque slope, which leads down into the valley, is particularly enjoyable. If you need even more action, choose the Tramcastilla lift, which takes you to the top of Tres Hombres. From here, spectacular black runs descend to the next valley (Izas Sarrios). In addition, sporty skiers can compete on the Parallel Slalom course. Around the Huegas, Escarra and Lanuza lifts, pleasure skiers will find a true paradise. Somewhat secluded, you can enjoy carving here.
The Anayet and Portalet valleys offer even more black pistes. Spectacular slopes such as the Brocuso or the Grallera will make the hearts of experienced skiers and snowboarders beat faster. But also some blue marked slopes for beginners can be found there. Especially in the Anayet area, beginners in alpine skiing are in good hands, because there are several beginner lifts.
A speciality of the ski area is the so-called Ski Ratrack. Two ropes are attached to a snow groomer. Skiers and snowboarders can then hold on to these and be pulled through the ski area.
Panticosa
Panticosa is much smaller than Formigal and the perfect ski area for families. The Panticosa lift takes you right into the heart of the ski area. There are four practice lifts for all beginners. In addition, the many blue-marked slopes here also offer a wide range of options for beginners who are already a little more confident on the boards. Advanced skiers can let off steam on the red marked slopes of the ski area. The three Ibón slopes, the Mazaranuala or the Selva Verde offer top class slope enjoyment. There are also three black runs for those looking for a challenge.
Interesting facts
- Offering 180 km of slopes and terrain, Formigal Panticosa is among the 3 largest Ski Resorts in Spain.
- Formigal Panticosa is among the 3 best rated Ski Resorts in Spain.
- It is among the 3 most family-friendly ski Resorts in Spain.
- The vertical drop from summit to base is 1,105 m. The average difference in altitude between base and summit of Ski Resorts in Spain is 562 m. Most runs are therefore relatively long. The ski resort takes you to an elevation of 2,250 m.
- Average snow depth during the season is 105 cm at summit elevation and 52 cm at base elevation. Snow coverage is usually best during March, offering an average snow depth of 138 cm at summit elevation and 68 cm at the base. Therefore Formigal Panticosa is among the 10 ski Resorts with best snow conditions in Spain.
- Formigal Panticosa features 7 sunny days on average per season. The average for all ski Resorts in Spain is 7 sunny days. December is the sunniest month with an average of 3 sunny days. This makes the ski resort one of the 5 sunniest in Spain.
Snow Safety & Snowmaking
On Mountain Dining
In Formigal-Panticosa there are plenty of mountain restaurants waiting for hungry skiers. From a small snack to a gourmet menu, there is something for every taste. The first place to go are the so-called Bocaterías, which offer sandwiches and small dishes. For example, the Boactería Sarrios or the Bocatería Izas (both in Formigal) are recommended. One of the highlights is the Cantal Panoramic with a magnificent view of the Pyrenees. Here everything is a bit more posh and it is not unusual to have a glass of sparkling wine or champagne with lunch. Gourmets can even enjoy fresh sushi at El Iglú. The perfect burger can be found in Panticosa: Sabocos Burguer offers a selection of delicious variations on the American specialty. If you prefer pizza, Selva Verde is the place to go.
Must-Ski Runs
With 147 slopes, the choice is quite difficult. The Bosque downhill run with its breathtaking views should definitely be on your list. Experienced skiers and snowboarders can also try the Grallera.
Most Difficult Runs
Longest Runs
Videos
Activities
The Portalet Park in Formigal provides lots of fun and action. Whether it's snow tubing or snake gliss, you'll be racing down the mountain. And with the SnowBike, there's no way you'll get bored. The bike with runners is not only perfect for speeding down the mountain, but with a little experience it is also the perfect device for unique stunts. If you want to rest your muscles for a while, you can enjoy the snow-covered landscape in peace and quiet on a sled dog tour.
Après-Ski and Nightlife
In Formigal-Panticosa people like to party for a long time. The après ski hotspot in Panticosa is the Cobaxo. It is located at the valley station of the gondola and invites you to end the ski day with a drink or two. On the large terrace you can enjoy the last rays of sun or dance to casual music. In Formigal, party people meet at the Marchica. The party goes on until 9 pm. To make sure everyone gets home safely, there is a bus to the centre by 9.30pm.
Infrastructure & Rental
Skischools
Number of Ski Rental
Getting here
The nearest airports are Zaragoza in Spain and Lourdes in France. From there you can get to the ski area by taxi or rental car.