Where to ski in the Montaña de Riaño
If you are wondering where to ski in the Montaña de Riaño, winter 2026 brings very good news. In the northern area of León, you will find the San Isidro ski resort, one of the great winter gems of northwestern Spain. It makes this destination ideal for enjoying skiing surrounded by nature, charming villages, and mountain cuisine. Keep reading to discover why the Montaña de Riaño is the perfect base for your snow getaways.
San Isidro: the ski resort boosting mountain tourism
The San Isidro ski resort is undoubtedly the main reference for skiing in the province of León. Located in the Cantabrian Mountains, just a little over an hour from the heart of the Montaña de Riaño, the resort has started 2026 with record visitor numbers. Snow conditions have been good, the weather has been favourable, and visitors have arrived in large numbers.
San Isidro offers:
More than 30 kilometres of skiable slopes
Different sectors for all levels (Debutantes, Cebolledo, Riopinos, Requejines, and Salencias)
Equipment rental, ski school, cafés, and nearby accommodation
Easy access from different areas of northern León and southern Asturias
Thanks to its strategic location, the Montaña de Riaño is an excellent option for those looking to stay in peaceful surroundings while having quick access to the resort.
Expansion and connection with Fuentes de Invierno: a historic opportunity
Another major project back in discussion is the connection with the neighbouring Asturian resort of Fuentes de Invierno. This link would create the largest ski area in northwestern Spain, with clear benefits:
Attraction of national and international skiers
Increased overnight stays in the region
More local employment and economic activity
A real opportunity to help retain population in mountain villages
The Montaña de Riaño would be one of the main beneficiaries of this transformation, strengthening its position as a gateway to a leading winter destination.
Staying in the Montaña de Riaño: perfect accommodation for your ski trip
For those skiing in San Isidro, staying in one of the villages of the Montaña de Riaño is becoming increasingly popular. In addition to more affordable prices compared to high-demand ski areas, it offers a quieter and more authentic environment, perfect for relaxing after a day in the snow.
Recommended accommodation:
Casas de Montaña (Lugueros): a mountain retreat surrounded by nature, designed for those seeking comfort and peace.
Casa Susarón (Puebla de Lillo): ideal for enjoying skiing, hiking, fishing, and cycling routes.
Casa Hostal Olga (Cofiñal): comfort and direct contact with nature.
Beyond skiing: winter activities in the Montaña de Riaño
Although alpine skiing is the main attraction, the Montaña de Riaño in winter offers many more ways to enjoy the environment:
Snowshoe routes in Lario or Valdeón
Wildlife and snowy landscape photography
Traditional Leonese cuisine: stews, game meat, cured meats, and homemade desserts
Cultural visits: Ethnographic Museum of Riaño, Wildlife Museum, the Romanesque church of Lois, or traditional granaries
It is ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a complete winter getaway.
Skiing in the Montaña de Riaño is more than just sliding down slopes: it is about immersing yourself in a unique natural setting, with living villages, stunning landscapes, and close access to a resort like San Isidro, which in 2026 is proving its enormous potential.