Skiing and Snowboarding around Madrid 2024-2025

Although Madrid rarely sees snow, you can enjoy skiing just 52 km away from the capital atop some impressive mountains

Best time: early December–early April

Skiing in Madrid is a popular winter activity, with the mountains of the Sistema Central rising to 2,400 meters north of the city. To the west, the peaks reach nearly 2,600 meters, extending toward Portugal. Despite Madrid's subtropical location, these ridges have glaciers, and the highest peaks remain snow-covered for 6-7 months each year. The ski resorts offer a variety of routes for athletes of all skill levels, while the well-developed infrastructure provides plenty of options for entertainment both on and off the slopes.

Ski Season

The ski season near Madrid typically runs from early December to early April, though snowfall can affect the exact dates. The high peaks of the Sistema Central, including the Sierra de Guadarrama and Mecheta, remain snow-covered for several months, making them ideal for skiing and snowboarding. These mountains offer a range of resorts with well-developed infrastructure, such as La Pinilla, Valdesquí, and Puerto de Navacerrada, which are popular among tourists and locals alike for winter sports.

Puerto de Navacerrada Ski Resort

Puerto de Navacerrada, located in the Sierra de Guadarrama Mountains, is the closest ski resort to Madrid, offering nearly 10 kilometers of ski trails that wind through beautiful pine forests. Known for its friendly, family-oriented atmosphere, it provides an ideal setting for winter sports enthusiasts. The resort features five lifts to transport visitors, and the ski area ranges between elevations of 1,703 and 2,174 meters. The length of the ski season depends on snowfall, but the resort remains a popular choice for both skiing and snowboarding near Madrid.

Ski Passes & Hours

A day ticket at Puerto de Navacerrada during the main season is priced at €32 for adults and €27 for children. The resort operates daily from 9 am to 5 pm, providing ample time for visitors to enjoy the slopes and explore the beautiful surroundings.

Valdesquí Ski Resort

Valdesquí is a popular ski resort near Madrid, offering over 22 km of slopes, making it one of the largest in the Sistema Central range. While it primarily caters to beginners, with easy trails and plenty of ski schools, it’s also a favorite for snowboarders. The resort’s 13 lifts transport visitors between elevations of 1,860 and 2,278 meters. Although the trails may not challenge advanced skiers, Valdesquí is perfect for families and those new to winter sports. After a day on the slopes, guests can enjoy the resort’s cafes, bars, and restaurants, set against stunning mountain views.

Ski Passes & Hours

At Valdesquí, day tickets during the main season are priced at €43 for adults and €38 for children. The resort operates from 9 am to 4:30 pm, providing ample time for visitors to enjoy the slopes and facilities throughout the day.

La Pinilla Ski Resort

La Pinilla is a quiet yet lively ski resort located in the Province of Segovia, part of the Sistema Central of Mecheta. It features 21 km of slopes for skiing and snowboarding, with 11 lifts serving guests. The resort sits between elevations of 1,484 and 2,036 meters, offering mostly intermediate-level red trails. It's ideal for beginners due to its excellent ski schools and family-friendly atmosphere. In addition to skiing, visitors can enjoy unique winter activities like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and snow racing, making La Pinilla a well-rounded destination for winter sports enthusiasts.