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Vall de Núria: A Pyrenean Paradise

Discover Vall de Núria: A car-free Pyrenean valley offering stunning scenery, outdoor adventures, and a rich spiritual history. Accessible only by rack railway!

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Nestled in the heart of the Catalan Pyrenees, Vall de Núria is a unique, car-free mountain resort accessible only by a scenic rack railway or on foot. This tranquil valley, surrounded by peaks reaching almost 3,000 meters, offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and spiritual history, making it a memorable destination for all.

A brief summary to Estació de muntanya Vall de Núria

  • Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

  • Purchase a combined train and rack railway ticket (TreNatura) from Barcelona for a more economical journey.
  • Sit on the right side of the rack railway when ascending for the best views of the valley.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, especially during winter, and dress accordingly.
  • Consider staying overnight in the Vall de Núria hotel or the Alberg Pic de l'Àliga to fully experience the tranquility of the valley.
  • Take advantage of the Coma del Clot Cable Car, included in the rack railway ticket, for panoramic views and access to hiking trails.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Vall de Núria, begin by taking the R3 Rodalies train from Barcelona (Plaça Catalunya or Sants Estació) to Ribes de Freser. The journey takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, with tickets costing around €9. From Ribes de Freser, transfer to the Vall de Núria Rack Railway (Cremallera), the only way to access the valley. A one-way ticket from Ribes de Freser to Núria costs €33 for adults, €21.50 for children (4-13 years), and €28 for seniors (65+). Children under 3 travel for free. A combined train and rack railway ticket (TreNatura) can also be purchased.

  • Walking

    For experienced hikers, it is possible to hike to Vall de Núria following marked trails from Queralbs. This challenging but rewarding trek offers stunning views of the Pyrenees. Be prepared for a steep ascent and ensure you have appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy boots and plenty of water. Note that there are no facilities along the route. Upon arrival in Vall de Núria, access to the valley is free, but activities such as the cable car and boat rentals have separate costs. The rack railway can be used for the descent if desired; see 'Public Transport' for ticket costs.

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Discover more about Estació de muntanya Vall de Núria

Vall de Núria, meaning "Valley between mountains", is a haven located in the eastern Pyrenees of Catalonia, Spain. Situated at an altitude of 2,000 meters, this glacial valley is part of the Queralbs municipal area in the province of Girona. What sets Vall de Núria apart is its inaccessibility by road; the only ways to reach it are via a rack railway that snakes through stunning mountain scenery or by hiking along picturesque footpaths. The valley's history is intertwined with the legend of Saint Giles (Sant Gil), who is said to have arrived here around 700 AD. He carved an image of the Virgin Mary and hid it in a cave, along with a cross, a bell, and a cooking pot. In the 11th century, a pilgrim rediscovered the image, leading to the construction of a chapel and the valley becoming a site of pilgrimage. The Sanctuary of the Virgin of Núria stands as a testament to this spiritual heritage. Today, Vall de Núria offers a wide array of activities throughout the year. In winter, it transforms into a ski resort with slopes for all skill levels, as well as opportunities for snowshoeing and sledding. During the warmer months, visitors can enjoy hiking, canoeing on the lake, mini-golf, horseback riding, and exploring the natural park. The Coma del Clot Cable Car provides access to panoramic views and the Alberg Pic de l'Àliga. The valley is also rich in natural beauty, with diverse flora and fauna. Black pines, ash trees, birches, and broad-leafed oaks dot the landscape, while chamois deer and marmots inhabit the mountains. The Capçaleres del Ter i del Freser Natural Park offers further opportunities to explore the region's biodiversity.

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