It is a small area in the Pyrénées-Orientales which is winning the favor of holidaymakers this year: Formiguères has been designated the “most welcoming ski resort in France” by Airbnb. The rental accommodation platform established its ranking according to the number of best reviews (5 stars) left by travelers between October 1, 2021 and September 30, 2022. After Cambre d’Aze last year, the POs therefore win this ranking for the second consecutive time, followed on the podium by Albiez-Montrond (in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes) then La Grave (in Paca).
At 1750 meters above sea level, Formiguères extends over 65 hectares in the heart of the forest, in the regional natural park of the Catalan Pyrenees. The resort has 21 slopes and 7 ski lifts spread over 25 km of ski area. It is part of the Trio Pyrénées group, including Cambre d’Aze and Porté Puymorens.
For Sébastien Bonet, manager of the Formiguères site, appearing at the top of the Airbnb ranking rewards “what we have been tending towards for many years: the well-being of our teams (46 employees in winter) and the impeccable welcome are felt by our customers”.
Another element that may have played in its favour, “Formiguères is a small mountain village (450 habitants) who lives year-round, adds Edith Mestre, communications director for Trio Pyrénées. We promote local jobs and short circuits, with our own breeders in the shops, in a preserved environment on a human scale”.
The Catalan resort has 4,300 reception beds, mainly in second homes rented by individuals, and totals approximately 100,000 ski days over the season. “We don’t intend to expand further, but the recognition of our customers, which puts us at the top of this ranking, is a fine distinction”, slips Sébastien Bonet. The icing on the cake, Formiguères is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.