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Vall de Núria: A Pyrenean Paradise

Discover Vall de Núria: A car-free mountain paradise in the Pyrenees, offering skiing, hiking, and spiritual discovery. Accessible only by rack railway.

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

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 rack railway tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit and dress accordingly, as mountain weather can be unpredictable.
  • Take advantage of the Coma del Clot Cable Car for panoramic views of the valley and surrounding peaks.
  • Explore the historic bridges around the sanctuary, remnants of ancient pilgrimage routes.
  • If visiting with children, check out the Marmot's Burrow and the play park for fun activities.
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Getting There

  • Rack Railway

    The only way to reach Vall de Núria is via the rack railway, which has stations at Ribes-Enllaç, Ribes-Vila and Queralbs. From Barcelona or Zaragoza, take a train to Ribes de Freser. At Ribes de Freser, transfer to the rack railway. A combined Renfe (Spanish National Railway) + Cremallera ticket is available. Alternatively, you can drive to Ribes de Freser or Queralbs and park your car at the station. The rack railway journey to Vall de Núria takes approximately 40 minutes. In the 2025 summer season, adult tickets from Ribes to Núria cost €33.00, children (4-13 years) cost €21.50, and seniors (65+ years) cost €28.00. A round trip ticket on the urban train between Ribes-Rialb-Queralbs costs €7.50 for adults and €5 for children. Dogs are allowed on the train free of charge, but must be leashed and muzzled (muzzles available for purchase at the ticket office for €5).

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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, in the province of Girona. The valley is part of the municipality of Queralbs and is uniquely positioned at an altitude of 2,000 meters, accessible only by the Vall de Núria Rack Railway or by foot. This isolation contributes to its peaceful atmosphere, far removed from the bustle of typical resorts. The valley's history is intertwined with the Sanctuary of the Virgin of Núria, a site of pilgrimage for over 800 years. Legend has it that Saint Giles arrived in the valley around 700 AD, carving an image of the Virgin Mary and hiding it in a cave. In the 11th century, a pilgrim rediscovered the image, leading to the construction of a chapel and the valley's emergence as a spiritual center. The current church and hotel were built in the early 20th century. Today, Vall de Núria offers a diverse range of activities for visitors of all ages. In winter, it transforms into a ski resort with 11 slopes catering to various skill levels. Other winter activities include snowshoeing, sledding, and ice scuba diving. During the warmer months, visitors can enjoy hiking, canoeing on the lake, horseback riding, and exploring the Capçaleres del Ter i del Freser Natural Park. The resort also features a play park, mini-golf, and archery, ensuring entertainment for families. The rack railway itself is a highlight, opened in 1931, the train ascends over 1,000 meters in about 40 minutes, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The journey passes through four stations: Ribes-Enllaç, Ribes-Vila, Queralbs and Núria. Vall de Núria is committed to sustainability, carefully managing its natural heritage. The resort is accessible to disabled persons in the rack railway, restaurant and hotel.

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