You might not immediately think of Madrid as a place for skiing—after all, it’s known for sunshine, tapas, and buzzing city life. But if you’re living here or visiting during winter and itching to hit the slopes, you’re in luck. There are actually some solid options just a short drive away.

Valdesquí

It is probably the easiest one to get to. About an hour’s drive north, tucked away in the Sierra de Guadarrama, it’s got a mix of runs that work for both beginners and more experienced skiers. Is it world-class? Not exactly. But it’s a super convenient option if you just want to throw your gear in the car and get in some turns without making a whole trip out of it. Plus, the scenery is nice, especially on a clear day. The downside? It can get crowded, especially on weekends, since it’s the most accessible spot from Madrid.

Then there’s La Pinilla,

which is further out—around an hour and a half from the city—but definitely worth it if you’re looking for a bit more space and better snow conditions. It’s got a more laid-back vibe, and if you go mid-week, you might even feel like you have the place to yourself. The runs are a little more varied than Valdesquí, and there are good spots to grab a bite after a morning of skiing. Speaking of food, Spanish ski resorts tend to have decent options, so you’re not just stuck with the usual fast-food fare you get at bigger resorts elsewhere. Expect warming plates of stews, grilled meats, and great local wine, which definitely adds to the charm of skiing here.

Now, let’s be real—it’s not the Alps, and if you’re a hardcore skier, this won’t be the trip of a lifetime. But for a quick escape from the city, it’s honestly pretty great. You wake up in Madrid, grab your gear, and before noon, you’re skiing with mountain views. Not a bad way to spend a winter day.