Winter adventure in the Val d'Aran: snowshoeing and dog sledding
In summary
-
Sports
-
Duration3 days
-
LevelBeginner
-
DestinationCatalonia / Val d'Aran
-
AgeFrom 12 - 90 years
-
CO₂-Emissions77.15 kg CO2
-
Type of stayIndependent traveler
In a few words
Embark on a winter getaway to the heart of the Val d'Aran in the Catalan Pyrenees and discover the mountains in all their facets. For three days, experience an accessible adventure combining snowy landscapes, wide open spaces, and iconic winter activities.
Explore the surroundings of Baciver on a guided snowshoe hike, reach the mountain village of Montgarri by snowmobile and let yourself be carried through the snowy landscapes of Baqueira Beret on a dog sled ride.
Designed for those who wish to enjoy the snow in a different way than on the ski slopes, this stay combines outdoor activities, exploration of the territory and moments of disconnection in one of the most beautiful settings of the Pyrenees.
The highlights
-
Guided snowmobile excursion for an unforgettable experience
-
Explore the Val de Baciver on snowshoes
-
Discover the Dossau forest by dogsled
Photos
Sport
Level
Winter multi-activity
The expert's opinion
Winter is a magical season to discover the Val d'Aran, and these activities allow you to explore its landscapes in different ways, in the heart of a snowy nature.
Snowshoeing, dog sledding, or snowmobiling: you don't need to be a top athlete! These experiences are accessible to all levels, including those discovering winter activities for the first time. Each offers a different approach to the mountains: taking the time to walk in the snow, enjoying a special moment with the dogs, or exploring the snowy landscapes in a more dynamic way.
My advice: dare to vary your experiences! It is undoubtedly one of the best ways to fully enjoy the Val d'Aran in winter and to discover the valley from several angles.
One small point to be aware of: snowmobiling may not be recommended for people suffering from back problems , due to vibrations and uneven terrain.
Claire – NJOY Catalonia
In figures
Snowshoes
- Average duration/day: 3h
- Average distance/day: 6 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 280 m
- Average daily descent: 280 m
Dog sledding ride
- Average duration/day: 0h30
Management
Your travel guide to take everywhere with you. 🗺️
A PDF guide with all the information relating to accommodation and activities, as well as many recommendations to make the most of your stay in Val d'Aran.
Program
-
Snowshoeing
- Transportation Car - 00h55 - 40km
- Activity Snowshoes
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Distance 6 km
- Positive elevation gain 280 m
- Negative elevation 280 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Looking to spend some unique moments with family or friends enjoying the snow? We offer this guided snowshoeing excursion in the heart of the Val d'Aran. The route is suitable for anyone in good physical condition over 12 years old (shoe size 34 or larger) who wants to exercise with spectacular views of the surrounding snow-covered mountains and the Pla de Beret. After receiving some explanations and recommendations from your guide, you will embark on a three-hour hike during which you can enjoy the unique scenery of the Val d'Aran and discover the snowy landscapes surrounding Lake Baciver.
Day 1 -
Snowmobile excursion
- Transportation Car - 00h45 - 30km
- Activity Autre
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Looking for an adrenaline rush? We offer this guided snowmobile excursion in the Aran Valley. After receiving some basic instructions and recommendations from your guide on how to drive a snowmobile, you'll begin your journey towards Montgarri, a village now uninhabited due to its difficult access, but which nevertheless retains its old-world charm. Return to the starting point. End of the activity.
The excursion is conducted on easy-to-drive 550cc snowmobiles. You can choose between single and two-seater models. This experience is open to everyone, although it is not recommended for pregnant women, children under 3 years old, or people with back or heart problems. You must be over 18 years of age and hold a B1 driving license to drive a snowmobile. Those who do not meet these requirements can ride on the back of a two-seater. Departure from Baqueira Beret.
Day 2 -
Dog sledding
- Transportation Car - 00h45 - 30km
- Activity Dog sledding ride
- Duration of the activity 0h20
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Looking for a unique way to discover the snowy landscapes of the Val d'Aran? A dog sledding excursion is an experience not to be missed. We offer two routes, one 20 minutes and the other an hour, for unforgettable moments with friends or family. This dog sledding excursion will give you an up-close look at the world of mushing and the dogs of the pack, all while enjoying a charming ride through the heart of the Val d'Aran. Departure from Baqueira Beret.
Day 3
Note
The order of activities may be modified depending on the availability of our local partners.
The various sporting activities take place regardless of the weather, unless an alert is issued by official organizations, or as a safety precaution according to the criteria of our local guides. If necessary, rescheduling the activity will be considered based on the weather forecast for the remainder of your stay and the availability of our service providers.
It is possible to include other activities or options in your stay, such as a horse-drawn sleigh ride, a nighttime snowshoe excursion, or a caviar tasting featuring sturgeon raised in the Garonne River. Please contact us for more information.
Accommodation
The SNÖ Beret Hotel is a welcoming mountain hotel located in Vielha, in the heart of the Aran Valley, a popular destination in the Pyrenees. Perfect for a ski holiday in winter or a nature getaway in summer, it harmoniously combines modern comfort with an authentic mountain atmosphere.
Located in a peaceful setting, the property is just a 5-minute walk from the center of Vielha and 14 km from the Baqueira Beret ski resort. Its typical Val d'Aran architecture, blending stone and slate, houses cozy rooms designed to offer rest and well-being after a day of activities.
Located right next to one of the best ski resorts in the Pyrenees, with over 150 km of slopes, the SNÖ Beret hotel is the ideal starting point for downhill skiing, snowboarding, and a wide range of winter activities. In summer, the Aran Valley reveals its full splendor, becoming a true playground for hiking, mountain excursions, and nature holidays dedicated to adventure lovers and those who appreciate the great outdoors.
Access
The hotel's maximum check-out time is 11:00 AM. However, various activities may end at 5:00 PM.
Go to the starting point
There are parking areas (public or private) near the accommodation. They may be subject to a fee.
You can also get to Val d'Aran from France by bus.
Price details
The price includes
- 2 nights' accommodation in a double room with breakfast
- Guided snowshoe hike - 3 hours. Includes guide, insurance and snowshoe and pole rental.
- Two-seater snowmobile excursion - 1.5 hours. Includes guide, insurance and snowmobile rental with helmet.
- Dog sledding ride - 20 min. Includes dog sledding, guide and insurance.
- French-speaking, English-speaking, or Spanish-speaking guides, depending on availability
- Digital roadbook with all the information you need for a smooth trip
- Assistance in French during your stay
The price does not include
- Round-trip transportation to the accommodation
- Lunches and dinners
- Individual supplement
- Individual snowmobile supplement
- Additional charge for 1-hour dog sledding ride
- Tourist tax: payable directly to the hotels on site. Approximately €1.32 per person per day.
- Optional activities
- Purchases made on site
- Tips
Options
- Individual supplement : CHF256.14 / person
- Individual snowmobile : CHF45.74 / person
- Dog sledding ride - 1 hour : CHF77.76 / person
- Nighttime snowshoeing excursion : CHF27.44 / person
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
No specific equipment is required: all the technical equipment needed for the activities is provided on site .
Clothing to bring
In winter, mountain temperatures can be low and change rapidly. To fully enjoy your activities, opt for the three-layer system , which keeps you warm while wicking away moisture:
- Breathable first layer : thermal underwear, long-sleeved top and technical tights.
- Second warm layer : fleece, technical sweater or light down jacket.
- Waterproof and windproof outer layer : ski jacket or mountain jacket and ski/waterproof pants.
- Warm and waterproof shoes : ideally winter hiking or après-ski shoes with a good non-slip sole.
- Warm socks : made of merino wool or technical materials.
- Waterproof gloves , hat and neck warmer.
- Sunglasses and high protection sunscreen : the sun's reflection on the snow can be significant.
For snowmobiling and dog sledding , where there's less movement and the feeling of cold can be more intense, bring an extra warm layer. For snowshoeing , on the other hand, it's best to be able to easily remove a layer during the activity.
Our advice: avoid wearing cotton directly against your skin, as it retains moisture and cools down quickly once wet. Opt instead for technical clothing that is warm and breathable.
