Since 1964, Baqueira Beret, the jewel in the crown of the Spanish Pyrenees, has been the scene of an exceptional adventure serving mountain enthusiasts. To mark its 60th anniversary, the resort is celebrating its rich heritage with a series of investments for the 2024-2025 season. This anniversary season will be marked by new routes, redesigned services, a reinforced commitment to sustainability, not to mention the hosting of first-class sporting events.
Baqueira: 60 years of expertise serving skiers
For this anniversary season, the resort is extending its ski area with the addition of three new runs to complete an already impressive network:
- Among the new runs inaugurated for this 2024-2025 season, Bosc de Peülla 2 stands out as one of the most impressive. Located in the Bonaigua area, this 514-metre long black run promises a thrilling experience for even the most experienced skiers. With a vertical drop of almost 200 metres and an average gradient of 40%, it embodies the very essence of high-performance skiing, where technical mastery and endurance are the keys to taming this vertiginous descent. The run starts at an altitude of 2,239 metres, in the heart of a majestic landscape offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. The route, which winds through wooded areas, requires constant concentration and excellent technique to negotiate tight bends and steep sections.
- Barqueta 2, a new 430-metre red run, is an extension of Barqueta 1, which was inaugurated last season. Located in a strategic area of the resort, this new run is part of a wider project to improve the flow of connections within Baqueira Beret, making it easier to travel between the different areas of the ski area, particularly between Baqueira and Argulls. With a vertical drop of 143 metres and an average gradient of 35%, Barqueta 2 is ideal for intermediate to advanced skiers looking for a slope that is both technical and enjoyable. The piste meanders through open countryside, offering superb views of the surrounding mountains while ensuring a smooth and safe ride.
- The new 2200 piste, although relatively short at 220 metres, is a strategic addition to the Baqueira Beret ski area. Situated at a key altitude of 2200 metres, this piste takes its name from the elevation at which it is located and offers skiers direct access to the 2200 altitude restaurant, a must for those who want to combine the pleasure of skiing with an exceptional gastronomic experience. This red run has a vertical drop of 57 metres and an average gradient of 27%. It is aimed primarily at intermediate skiers, looking for a pleasant, fast descent that ends in a setting where conviviality and relaxation are the order of the day. 2200 plays a key role in Baqueira Beret’s desire to diversify the experience for skiers, by adding a gourmet component to their day on the slopes.
With these additions, the Baqueira Beret ski area now has a total of 122 marked runs, or 167 km of trails, plus a further 4 km of itineraries.
Modernised infrastructure for a seamless experience
With 60 years’ experience behind it, Baqueira Beret knows that the comfort of skiers also depends on modern, accessible infrastructures. For the new 2024-2025 winter season, the resort has completely redeveloped the Baqueira 1500 area, with major improvements to make access to the slopes easier:
- New service centre: a completely redesigned area for visitor reception, ski pass sales and customer information. The new layout makes it easier to organise a day’s skiing, allowing visitors to concentrate on what’s most important: enjoying the slopes.
- New Baqueira Store: the ski hire shop and centre has been redesigned to offer a more convenient experience. Skiers can now collect their equipment just a few metres from the ski lifts, a concrete example of how Baqueira is innovating to make life easier for its customers.
- New catering facilities: the Bonaigua cafeteria has been modernised with a new panoramic terrace equipped with parasols, as well as renovated sanitary facilities. This unique setting allows skiers to take a pleasant break while enjoying a breathtaking view of the mountains.
Baqueira, a commitment to sustainability and technological innovation
Baqueira Beret, with 60 years of expertise in the Spanish Pyrenees, is also a pioneer in the field of sustainability. Aware of the importance of preserving the Alpine environment, the resort has reduced the energy consumption of its snowmaking system by 70% over the years. For this winter season, 31 new snow guns have been installed in key areas, bringing the total number to 850. This will ensure optimum snow coverage throughout the season, while reducing the resort’s ecological footprint.
The resort’s sustainable policy is also reflected in the acquisition of two new snow groomers equipped with the SnowSAT system. This innovative technology enables snow depth to be measured precisely and in real time. This control of snow depths means that the pistes can be prepared in the best possible way, while minimising the impact on the environment.
Sporting celebrations and key events
To mark its 60th anniversary, Baqueira Beret will be hosting a number of international sporting events, reinforcing its position as a leading organiser of top-level competitions:
- Freeride World Tour: for the fourth year running, Baqueira Beret will host this prestigious competition from 18 to 23 January 2025 in the Baciver area, attracting the world’s best freeriders.
- FIS Men’s Slalom European Cup: on 6 and 7 February, the resort will host this competition on the FIS-approved track at the Fernández Ochoa Stadium in Beret. Investments have been made to extend the start area and improve safety for the athletes.
An anniversary of craftsmanship and exclusivity
To mark its 60th anniversary, Baqueira Beret is also showcasing its craftsmanship with the creation of a limited edition of 60 pairs of ROC skis. These skis are made locally from ash and bamboo. They can be personalised with an engraved serial number and a silver plate, making them a unique collector’s item for ski enthusiasts.
A revamped mobile application
For this anniversary season, the resort has also redesigned its mobile application to make it even more intuitive and accessible. Available on iOS and Android, it now makes it easier to top up BaqueiraPASS and BaqueiraTICKET. Users will also be able to check the state of the slopes and the weather forecast in real time. This enhancement is part of Baqueira Beret’s drive to remain at the forefront of innovation, while making the experience easier for skiers.
