La Molina gondola to the Tosa d'Alp without skis

If there is someone in the group who does not ski, La Molina's Cadí-Moixeró gondola takes pedestrians up to the Tosa d'Alp, at 2,537 metres, the roof of the resort. In a few minutes you go from the forest to the summit, and at the top is the restaurant and refuge Niu de l'Àliga.

What you see from the top

The Tosa is the highest summit of the La Molina and Masella ski area, and from it the whole Cerdanya opens out, the wide, flat valley that descends towards Puigcerdà, with the snowy Pyrenean peaks around. Beside it, the Cadí range and the Cadí-Moixeró Natural Park, which gives the gondola its name. On a clear day it is one of the widest views you can have in winter without putting on skis or snowshoes.

The journey itself is already part of the plan: the cabin climbs over the forest and the runs, and children usually enjoy it as much as the summit. The gondola is accessible to people with reduced mobility.

What it costs and when to go up

The gondola's pedestrian pass costs €20 for ages 12 to 64, €10 for 7 to 11, €15 for 65 to 74 and €7 for the youngest. It is bought at the resort's ticket offices or online; unlike other lift passes, the pedestrian one does not carry the €3 supplement for buying at the ticket office.

The last ascent for the panoramic walk is at 16:00 Monday to Friday and at 15:00 at weekends and public holidays. Go up early: with the morning light the views are clearer and you have time to eat at the top without hurry.

Eating at the summit or below

The Niu de l'Àliga, recently renovated, serves mountain cooking with panoramic views and also acts as a refuge. It is best to book a table on 605 842 992, especially at weekends. You will find more detail on its page: Restaurant Niu de l'Àliga. If you prefer something quick, next to the gondola base is the gondola self-service, for breakfast or a bite before going up.

How to do it

Park at P1 or P2, next to the gondola base; the details are in La Molina car parks. Without a car, the R3 train reaches La Molina station and an internal bus goes up to the slopes.

At the top, stay in the summit area: the runs are for skiers and are not walked on. Dress warmer than you think: on the Tosa the wind blows hard in winter, and the temperature is very different from the base. If the gondola stops because of wind, the ascent is cancelled; ask at the ticket office before paying and check the day's report. If the group splits, those who ski can ski at La Molina and all meet at the top for lunch.