Other activities

Helicopter skiing (973-645797 and 629-352326) and dogsledding (670-536654) are available. Two heated swimming pools and an ice skating rink are open at the Palau de Gel (973-642864) in Vielha; hours vary with skating every evening and swimming in the mornings and evenings. There are thermal baths originally discovered by the Romans about 35 minutes away in Banys de Tredos (973-253003), accessible only by four-wheel drive in the winter, and toward France in Baron’a de Les (973-648717).

Aran Valley Museum in Vielha, a collection of romanesque churches and unspoiled villages provide a glimpse of valley history. The restored Joanchiquet farm-house in Vilam's (normally closed in winter but open by appointment) is fascinating. Contact the valley tourist office (973-642915) for information and reservations.