La Molina Snowshoe Hike: Cable Car to Niu de l'Àliga Hut
Getting to La Molina Ski Resort by public transport, information about the activities and services, Snow shoe activity for beginners
Views:
1.7k
About La Molina Ski Resort: History, Activities & Visitor Guide
La Molina is one of Spain’s most historic and versatile ski resorts, located in the Cerdanya region of the Catalan Pyrenees. Just three hours from Barcelona, it offers a full range of winter sports and mountain experiences for skiers, snowboarders, and non-skiers alike.
The resort forms part of the Alp 2500 domain alongside neighbouring Masella, combining for over 135 km of skiable terrain. La Molina itself features 71 km of slopes across 68 pistes, served by 16 lifts including a panoramic gondola. The terrain is well-balanced for all levels — from beginner greens to challenging blacks — and includes a snowpark, superpipe, and three off-piste ski routes.
La Molina is also a hub for non-ski activities: snowshoeing, snowmobile excursions, Segway-on-snow, sledging, and scenic rides on the Cadí-Moixeró Telecabina. The cable car ascends to La Tosa peak and the Niu de l’Àliga mountain hut — the highest accessible point in the Catalan Pyrenees, offering panoramic views and warm food.
Founded in 1943 with Spain’s first ski lift and ski school, La Molina has hosted major international events including the Alpine Skiing World Cup (2008), Snowboard World Championships (2011), and the Para-Alpine World Championships (2013). Its blend of heritage, modern infrastructure, and family-friendly atmosphere makes it a favourite for both weekenders and seasoned snow lovers.
The village of La Molina offers a wide range of accommodation — from hotels and hostels to refugis (mountain huts) — plus ski rental shops, restaurants, and après-ski options. Whether you’re planning a ski holiday, a scenic winter escape, or a snowshoe adventure, La Molina delivers a complete Pyrenean experience.
Image Gallery La molina Refugi Niu de l'Aliga slopes
Click on any of the 28 images to open full screen gallery player. Note that viewing images is subject to our Fair Use Policy.
Visiting La molina Refugi Niu de l'Aliga
When I visited La Molina Ski Resort, I wasn’t there to ski — I wanted something quieter, more scenic, and beginner-friendly. Snowshoeing turned out to be the perfect choice. It’s safe, inexpensive, and lets you explore the Pyrenees at your own pace, away from the busy slopes.
I started in the village and took the Cadí-Moixeró Telecabina cable car, which costs 16 € for a return trip. The ride itself is worth it — you glide above pine forests and snowy ridgelines, with views stretching across the Cerdanya valley. The upper station drops you near La Tosa peak, and from there it’s about a 1 km walk to the Niu de l’Àliga refugi, the highest mountain hut in the Catalan Pyrenees.
I rented snowshoes (raquetas de nieve) and poles (bastones) for 15 € at one of the shops in the village. You can also hike in regular boots with crampons, but snowshoes make it more fun — especially when the snow is deep and powdery.
At the Niu de l’Àliga hut, I warmed up with a bowl of soup and a hot drink. The summit plateau is wide and peaceful, with panoramic views of the Cadí-Moixeró range and the distant Serra del Cadí. It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down and just take it all in.
After exploring the ridge and taking far too many photos, I returned to the cable car station and rode back down to the village — tired, happy, and already planning my next visit.
Where to Rent Ski & Snow Gear in La Molina
- Pic Negre – La Molina: Large selection of ski, snowboard, and mountain gear. Includes technical clothing, boots, poles, and accessories. 📍 Pista Llarga, s/n, La Molina Visit website
- Escola d’Esquí Alta Cerdanya: Ski and snowboard rental next to Cap de Comella lift. Long opening hours and free helmet for kids. 📍 Near Cap de Comella lift, La Molina Book via CheckYeti
- Caranva Sports: Ski and snowboard packages for all levels. Online booking available with flexible pickup. 📍 Plaça Pista Llarga, 8, 17537 La Molina Visit website
- Esportec La Molina: High-quality gear for skiing, snowboarding, touring, and snowshoeing. Advance booking recommended. 📍 Central La Molina Visit website
- La Molina Official Rental: Offers ski wear (anoraks, trousers, gloves, goggles) and snowshoe rental. 📍 On-site at La Molina resort Visit website
Hiking from La Molina to Niu de l'Àliga with a Dog
The lower slopes of La Molina are covered in pine forest, and during spring and summer, they may host Pine Processionary Caterpillars, which are toxic to dogs. Fortunately, in winter, with snow covering the ground, this risk is negligible.
Dogs generally enjoy snowshoe hikes, but it’s a good idea to call ahead and confirm whether pets are allowed on the telecabina cable car. If your dog loves snow, this can be a fantastic outing — just make sure they stay warm and don’t get cold or frozen paws. You may need to keep your dog on a leash near ski slopes to avoid any accidental collisions with skiers.
What to take for La Molina Winter Snow Visit
Pack thermal, windproof clothing suitable for high-altitude winter conditions. Layering is key — start with moisture-wicking base layers, add insulating mid-layers, and finish with a waterproof outer shell. Don’t forget gloves, a hat or buff, and UV-protective sunglasses or goggles.
Footwear depends on your activity: snowshoeing requires sturdy waterproof boots, while skiing or snowboarding will involve rental boots. If hiking, consider adding crampons or snow grips for icy terrain.
Bring 1–2 litres of water per person. Even in cold weather, dehydration is common — especially at altitude. Pack high-energy snacks like nuts, chocolate, or dried fruit for longer outings.
Optional but useful items include sunscreen (yes, even in winter), lip balm, a small first aid kit, and trekking poles for balance. If you're bringing a dog, consider paw wax or booties to protect against ice and snow.
Easy La molina Refugi Niu de l'Aliga Summary of Prices
Train/Bus Fare
Entry Ticket
Additional Information
Train/Bus Fare
Entry Ticket
Additional Information
Adult
€ 28.00
€ 16.00
13.00 Euros for over 65 years
Child
€ 28.00
€ 16.00
8 Euros for child under 11 years. 6 Euros for child under 6
Group/Family Ticket?
No.
Notes
Return train & bus costs 28.00 Euros.
Cadi-Moixero Gondola cable car 16 Euros return.
Snow shoe rental is 15 Euros approx per day.
Getting to La Molina Ski Resort
Address: Refugi Niu de l'Aliga, La Molina, 17538
- Train + Bus: The Rodalies R3 line from Barcelona connects directly to La Molina Renfe station. From there, a local shuttle bus (bus interno) covers the final 5 km to the ski village. Train fare is approximately 12 € one-way (24 € return), and the shuttle bus costs 2 € each way.
- By Car: There are two main driving routes from Barcelona:
- Via the C-16 motorway past Berga, then take the C-162 at Riu de Cerdanya towards Alp. From Alp, follow the GV-4082 to La Molina.
- Alternatively, take the C-17 and N-260 to Ribes de Freser, then follow the GI-400 through Toses to La Molina.
For skiers and snowboarders, the official La Molina website offers combined public transport packages that include ski lift forfeit passes — ideal for day trips or weekend visits.
The Cadí-Moixeró Telecabina cable car costs 16 € for a return journey and offers stunning views of the Pyrenees as it ascends to La Tosa peak.
Documents for La molina Refugi Niu de l'Aliga
Wikiloc Trail for Easy Snowshoe hike to La molina Refugi Niu de l'Aliga
Please sign in with Google to view the Wikiloc Route map.
Sign in with GoogleWeather for La molina Refugi Niu de l'Aliga
Mountain Forecast weather for La Molina
