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Vall de Núria: A Pyrenean Paradise

Discover Vall de Núria: A car-free Pyrenean valley offering a historic sanctuary, stunning scenery, and year-round outdoor adventures. Only accessible by rack railway!

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Nestled high in the Catalan Pyrenees, Vall de Núria is a unique mountain resort and pilgrimage site accessible only by a scenic rack railway. Surrounded by peaks reaching almost 3,000 meters, this car-free valley offers stunning natural beauty, a historic sanctuary, and a variety of year-round activities for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

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 change quickly.
  • Consider purchasing a combined Renfe + Cremallera ticket (TreNatura) for a cheaper journey from Barcelona.
  • Take advantage of the free guided tours on Saturdays and Sundays to learn more about the valley's history and nature.
  • If visiting with a dog, ensure it is leashed and muzzled; muzzles are available for purchase at the ticket office.
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Getting There

  • Rack Railway

    The only vehicle access to Vall de Núria is via the Rack Railway. To reach the Rack Railway, start from Ribes de Freser. You can get to Ribes de Freser by train from Barcelona. From the Ribes Enllaç station, the rack railway takes you on a 12.5 km scenic journey, climbing over 1,000 meters in about 40 minutes, through four stations: Ribes-Enllaç, Ribes-Vila, Queralbs and Núria. In 2025 Summer, adult tickets from Ribes to Núria cost €33.00, children (4-13 years) €21.50, and seniors (65+) €28.00. Dogs are allowed on the train for free.

  • Walking

    For experienced hikers, Vall de Núria is accessible by foot via several trails from Queralbs or even Ribes de Freser. These routes are challenging and require proper preparation and equipment. The trails offer stunning views of the surrounding Pyrenees. Be aware that the ascent is steep and can take several hours. Consider taking the rack railway down after hiking up.

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Discover more about Estació de muntanya Vall de Núria

Vall de Núria, meaning "Valley between mountains", is a glacial valley in the heart of the Pyrenees, within the municipality of Queralbs in Girona, Spain. This unique destination, reaching almost 2,000 meters (6,600 ft) above sea level, is only accessible by the Vall de Núria Rack Railway or by foot, ensuring a tranquil escape from the bustle of modern life. The valley is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, including towering mountains, lush forests, and the serene Lake Núria. It's a haven for outdoor activities, offering hiking, skiing, horseback riding, and more. The Capçaleres del Ter i del Freser Natural Park surrounds the valley, boasting diverse flora and fauna. At the heart of Vall de Núria lies the Sanctuary of the Virgin of Núria, a site of pilgrimage for over 800 years. Legend says Saint Giles arrived in the valley around 700 AD, carving an image of the Virgin Mary and hiding it in a cave to protect it from persecution. Centuries later, a pilgrim rediscovered the image, leading to the construction of a chapel and the valley's establishment as a place of worship. The current church and hotel were built in the early 20th century. In 1931, the valley was also the site where the first Catalan Statute of Autonomy was drafted. Today, Vall de Núria offers a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities. Visitors can explore the sanctuary, enjoy panoramic views from the Coma del Clot cable car, hike scenic trails, or participate in family-friendly activities like mini-golf and canoeing. In winter, the valley transforms into a ski resort with slopes for all skill levels.

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