What is there to see in the villages closest to Baqueira Beret?
Arties, Salardú and Unha are three picture-postcard villages and must-see destinations in the Aran Valley.
Whether you visit Baqueira Beret in winter to ski or in summer to go hiking, these three villages retain the charm of traditional Aranese architecture and will delight you at any time of year.
Arties, the village with the most charm and atmosphere in the Aran Valley
Located 7 km from Baqueira Beret, Arties stands out for its stone, wood and slate houses, its culinary scene and its historical heritage. It was selected as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in Spain in 2023. Its name is of Basque origin and means ‘plain between two waters’, as the village is situated between the Garonne and Valarties rivers.
It celebrates its main festival on 24 June for Saint John, and the traditional Taro festival takes place during the festivities. On 25 June there is a pilgrimage to Sant Pelegrí and on 25 July a pilgrimage to Santiago.
What to see in Arties?
- The Romanesque church of Santa María, with a striking Gothic tower and a valuable Gothic altarpiece inside.
- The church of Sant Joan, currently used as a cultural and exhibition space.
- The historic centre with Renaissance houses, such as those linked to the Portolà family.
- The thermal baths of Arties
- The surroundings of the Garonne and Valarties rivers.
- From Arties, you can also set off on the route to the Aigüestortes and Sant Maurici National Park via the Valarties valley.
Salardú, medieval history and Romanesque heritage
Just 4 kilometres from Baqueira Beret, Salardú is one of the most important historic towns and the administrative capital of the Aran Valley. Thanks to its strategic location next to the Bonaigua Pass, it was an important fortified town during the Middle Ages. Today it retains much of its historic character, with cobbled streets, old stately homes and a valuable religious heritage.
It celebrates its main festival on 3 May, “Era Hèsta de Santa Creu”, one of the first major festivals in the Val d’Aran.
What to see in Salardú?
- The Church of Sant Andrèu. Its imposing octagonal bell tower, built in the Romanesque style, is a notable feature, and it houses an important medieval carving of the Christ of Salardú.
- Remains of the ancient walls and the medieval gateway to Pallars.
- Era Mòla’, one of the 31 mills that used water power to grind grain in the past. More information More information
- From spring to autumn there is a golf course, although in 2026 it has closed temporarily due to the weather.
Many events are organised in Salardú, including:
Unha: The best views of the Aran Valley
Located 3 kilometres from the Baqueira Beret ski resort, Unha is one of the most picturesque villages in the Aran Valley thanks to its views of the mountains and the River Garonne. Its perfectly preserved traditional architecture and historical heritage make Unha an essential stop for anyone wishing to discover the valley’s most authentic essence.
It celebrates its main festival on 16 September in honour of Saint Sebastian, and its patron saint’s day on 10 December in honour of Saint Eulalia.
What to see in Unha?
- The 12th-century Church of Santa Eulàlia preserves Romanesque elements and valuable historical paintings. In the 1990s, a collection of religious Romanesque frescoes was discovered in this church, which belonged to a Pantocrator, on the vault of the apse.
- The collection of perfectly preserved traditional Aranese houses, such as El Ço de Brastet, Casal de Brastet and Casa Fuerte de Unha
- Musèu dera Nhèu (Snow Museum), situated in the stately home Çò de Basteret, built in 1580. The 12th-century church of Santa Eulàlia retains Romanesque features and valuable historical paintings.
When is the best time to visit Arties, Salardú and Unha?
Each season offers a different experience:
- Winter: ideal for skiing at Baqueira Beret and enjoying the snow-covered villages.
- Summer: the best time for hiking and mountain trails.
- Spring and Autumn: perfect for photographing the valley, cultural activities and outdoor pursuits.
In Arties, Salardú and Unha, you can sample traditional Aranese cuisine in one of their restaurants. Among the most traditional dishes are Aranese stew, mountain cured meats, grilled meats and desserts made with local produce. The three villages are just a few minutes’ drive apart, making them the perfect day trip whether you’re visiting in winter to ski or exploring the Aran Valley in summer.
From our hotel in Baqueira Beret, you’ll be within easy reach of Arties, Salardú and Unha, whether for après-ski or a day trip in August.
