Christmas and snow—a combination that, for many, is the epitome of a perfect holiday. In Spain, there are places where this winter fairytale comes to life. Picture a small mountain village: cobbled streets, houses capped with dark roofs, smoke curling from chimneys, and crisp, frosty air that makes you seek warmth by the fireplace. Add in close proximity to a first-class ski resort, and you have the recipe for an ideal winter getaway.
Such a place exists in the very heart of the Aran Valley, at an altitude of 1,260 meters. The village of Salardú, perched on a rocky hill where the Garona and Unhola rivers meet, looks like it has stepped right out of a Christmas card. Although fewer than 700 people live here year-round, in winter the village comes alive, drawing visitors with its proximity to the famous Baqueira-Beret resort. Salardú also serves as the administrative center of the Naut Aran municipality.
The charm of old streets
Salardú is a place where time seems to slow down. Here, there’s no need for elaborate routes or plans to enjoy yourself. Just wandering its steep little streets, taking in the traditional Pyrenean houses with their slate roofs and ancient windows, is enough to soak up the unique atmosphere. Its location at the crossroads of ancient routes connecting Aran with Pallars and France shaped its past as a fortified medieval town. Today, this historical heritage is still visible in the layout of the old quarter, preserving the spirit of an authentic mountain village.
At the heart of the village lies the charming Plaça Major, where the elegant 18th-century fountain always catches the eye. From here, every corner of the historic center is within easy reach. The atmosphere feels carefully maintained yet undeniably authentic. In winter, when everything is blanketed in snow, the landscape becomes even more magical: white rooftops, quiet streets, and the stark contrast of stone against the frozen scenery.
The main landmark and its treasures
The main symbol of Salardú is undoubtedly the Church of Sant Andreu. Perched on the highest point in the village, it is visible from nearly every direction. Built in the 12th century at the transition between the late Romanesque and Gothic styles, it stands out most for its octagonal 15th-century bell tower—an imposing, almost fortress-like structure, a reminder of the times when the village had to defend itself. The church is open to visitors year-round, and stepping inside is highly recommended. Within, it houses one of the largest and best-preserved ensembles of Renaissance wall paintings in the entire valley. These frescoes, which cover the walls, depict religious scenes including God the Father surrounded by the evangelists, the martyrdom of Saint Andrew, and the beheading of John the Baptist. Some paintings date back to 1540, others to 1584, and the entire collection was restored during a lengthy restoration project in the late 20th century.
Active recreation for every taste
One of the main advantages of Salardú is the easy access to a variety of winter activities right on your doorstep. The proximity to the Baqueira-Beret station allows you to enjoy skiing or snowboarding without having to stay in the busy resort complex. You’re just a few kilometers from the slopes, but can still savor the coziness and tranquility of a traditional village.
If you’re looking for something beyond skiing, there’s no shortage of options. For example, you can go on a snowmobile adventure. Excursions from Salardú are organized to the abandoned village of Montgarri, with a route that winds through breathtaking scenery. Another popular trip leads to the thermal springs of Baños de Tredòs, where you can combine adventure with relaxing treatments or enjoy a grilled meal.
Another unforgettable experience is mushing, or dog sledding. It’s the perfect activity for families, offering a unique perspective on the Aran Valley, just like scenes from films about the far north. For those who prefer a slower pace, there’s always the option to strap on snowshoes and hike along snowy trails, discovering hidden corners of nature. This is a relaxing way to explore the mountains and enjoy the scenery at your own rhythm. The Beret resort itself also offers cross-country ski trails and dedicated areas for snowshoe hikes and sledding.
What else to see in the area
In addition to strolling around the village itself, Salardú and its surroundings offer other attractions. You can visit Refugi Rosta, home to the PyrenMuseu—a museum featuring a collection of books, photographs, tools, maps, and everyday objects from the 19th and 20th centuries. Also worth seeing is the Mòla de Salardú, a flour mill dating back to 1613. Built from wood, stone, and slate, it has preserved part of its original structure.
If you want to enjoy a beautiful panorama, there’s a simple plan: drive toward the Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park and find a spot that overlooks Salardú together with the neighboring village of Unha. The sight of these two “brothers” against the mountain backdrop is one of those pictures that stays with you forever. Depending on the season, you can also go cycling, hiking, rafting, horseback riding, or fishing in the area.
