Piau Downhill slope of Piau - ©A. Bonal
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Its view of a 3,000-metre rocky barrier sets it apart from other Pyrenean resorts. A stronghold of high-altitude skiing with two long classic off-piste runs, the resort also has a forest sector. Piau can be summed up as follows: exceptional snow quality and two obvious sides to the slopes, one for the slopes and the other for adventure…
The best thing to do is to stay for several days or at least a weekend to enjoy a car-free resort where everything is within walking distance: the slopes, accommodation, restaurants, bars, shops and ski hire… The ideal place to switch off and recharge your batteries.
One of the Pyrenean paradises for freeriding in dream conditions. Every day, the ski patrollers secure the four dedicated areas accessible from the chairlifts. It’s a great opportunity to improve your skills and also to
This is a great opportunity to improve your skills, but also to learn how to freeride in the wild valleys, including the Badet valley, with the Pic du Campbiel in the background, one of the region’s most emblematic peaks.
Piau-Engaly is atypical, particularly in the balance and integration of its architecture. A sort of inverted crater, dominated by curves, where you are immersed in nature, as if on an island in an unspoilt setting surrounded by high mountains. That’s the strength of this resort, this constant dialogue with the landscape.
Stopover in the village of Bielsa
A delightful way to end the day is with a stopover in the village of Bielsa. Here, you can enjoy tapas and a glass of Somontano, the local wine, in one of the many bars and restaurants. Or try Aragonese cuisine, dishes based on suckling lamb, garlic, potatoes and ham, not forgetting the confectionery of Fiscal and “crespillos”, a dessert made from borage leaves.
Tapas tasting near the village of Bielsa
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If you’re looking for a different kind of ski weekend, explore our suggestions for all-inclusive holidays. In the highest resort in the Pyrenees, enjoy a relaxed and friendly holiday, whether you’re travelling with family or friends.
In Piau-Engaly, you can enjoy a wide range of mountain experiences: from traditional skiing to freeride adventures, and even wing snow for a touch of innovation. Then enjoy the resort’s festive atmosphere and lively evenings.
In Piau-Engaly, try wing snow, an original activity combining sail and snowboard to glide over the snow, carried by the wind. Supervised by an instructor, this safe initiation is practised on the slopes or in one of the three freeride areas.
Early in the morning, before the resort even wakes up, we take the chairlift with the ski patrol to the Piau-Engaly peaks. Up there, we swap skis and fatbikes for fatscoots, scooters with big wheels designed for the snow. With the help of an instructor, getting the hang of it is easy and stable.
Piau-Engaly is sought-after for its natural snow, but also for its young, festive atmosphere. It is the first resort to offer a hostel, a youth hostel combining comfort, design and sharing. The best part? Its parties and rooftop, where you can stroll around and enjoy a drink in a deckchair facing the mountains.
Extending your stay in Spain
In just 15 minutes by car from Piau-Engaly, you can cross the border to discover the southern slopes of the Pyrenees and their Mediterranean landscapes. After the Bielsa tunnel, drive another 20 minutes to reach the Piau Pineta Nordic area, in the Ordesa and Mont Perdu National Park. Here, four signposted routes allow you to explore these wild valleys. With no ski lifts or buildings, you’re in the realm of wild animals, with the occasional glimpse of a Bearded Vulture. Set off on cross-country skis, snowshoes or ski touring, depending on your level and preferences, with loops ranging from 1 to 11 kilometres.
