The Val d'Aran is nature in its purest state, with its mountains, its flora and its fauna. Surrounded by majestic peaks some 3,000 meters high, lush forests of fir, beech and oak, and high mountain rivers and lakes, it is a destination of enchanting beauty that also boasts a diverse and rich fauna. In a few places you will be able to observe the flight of the buzzard or the imposing golden eagle, among many other birds that fly over the Aranese sky. You can also trace the footsteps of the brown bear, observe the red deer or listen to the warning calls of the marmots. Equally impressive is the monumental legacy of the region. The Romanesque complex of chapels, churches and other artistic treasures is one of the most important in the Pyrenees. Due to its historical location in a border valley, the presence of castles and other defense fortifications is a constant and by following their trail you will understand the territory's past. Imagine what life was like in the valley centuries ago and discover the battles and events that marked the destiny of the territory and its people. However, if you want to experience and enjoy nature, in Val d'Aran you have a wide range of possibilities. Choose your favorite adventure sport and practice it in idyllic settings. If you want to cool off in the crystal clear waters of its rivers, you can opt for rafting, water sledding, canoeing or canyoning. If you want to enjoy the best views, you have a multitude of via ferratas, climbing routes or trails that will test you and take you through places of extraordinary beauty. In winter, alpine skiing is the king of sports! Baqueira-Beret is one of the most recognized resorts in the Pyrenees for the excellent quality of its snow throughout the season, for the incredible slopes suitable for all levels and its extraordinary environment presided over by the three thousand meters of the Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park. If you prefer to go into the woods and enjoy the natural environment in peace, put on your cross-country skis and let yourself be led along the perfectly signposted paths. The Val d'Aran is adventure, nature and heritage, but it is also a gastronomic tradition. In this territory you can enjoy all the nuances offered by a cuisine dominated by hunting and fishing, combined with local fruit and vegetables. In all of its towns you will find the most traditional dishes of the region, such as the Aranese pot, and local products such as honey, cheese or jam. Craftsmanship is also very present in the Aranese population, a way of getting closer to the traditions and identity of this unique valley. Did you know that Val d'Aran has its own language and culture? Aranès has survived to this day due to the geographical situation of the Val d'Aran among other reasons, which until recently was isolated at many times of the year. Come and discover the particularities of this variant of the Gascon language that enjoys the rank of the co-official language in Catalonia along with Catalan and Spanish. Visit some of the 33 villages that make up the Val d'Aran and meet the people who live in a territory that is, for the most part, above 2,000 meters in height. From Baqueira or Vielha, the capital of the valley, to the smallest villages, they all have the charm of high mountain villages. Stroll unhurriedly through the narrow alleyways, admire the churches, the wooden and stone houses with their slate roofs and find the most enchanting corners from where you can contemplate the incomparable setting in which they are located. Arties is a clear example of the rich architectural diversity, perfectly integrated into the natural environment. In the church of Santa Maria d'Arties you will discover different stages of history, from vestiges of the Romanesque to the Gothic, among others. You can also walk through its streets in search of the Renaissance houses that are scattered throughout a town that is also the gateway to the Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park on its Aranese side. Breathe in the pure air and absorb all the energy of the most wild and exuberant nature. Get to know the people, tradition and customs of a territory with its own culture and language. Practice and enjoy adventure sports, travel its trails on foot, by bike or on horseback, or discover all the charm and magic of a valley with unique particularities at your leisure. Val d'Aran will surprise you beyond belief. Dive in and experience nature like you've never experienced it before.