La Pitavola Mountain Market Returns to Arinsal for Sixth Edition

The Comú de la Massana will host the sixth edition of La Pitavola, the Pyrenees mountain market, on October 3 and 4 in Arinsal's old town centre. Organised to mark the anniversary of the Parc Natural Comunal de les Valls del Comapedrosa, the event will highlight mountain heritage through livestock displays, craft demonstrations, food stalls, and outdoor pursuits.

A key feature remains the livestock show, where six farmers will present cows, calves, mares, horses, and sheep. Comú menor Roger Fité described it as a vital chance to appreciate the region's natural assets, customs, and upland lifestyle, noting the autumn slot aligns with animals descending from high pastures.

Attendees can watch the on-site construction of a charcoal kiln, tracking its build, ignition, opening, and charcoal harvest. A separate incomplete kiln will illustrate the process for educational value.

The Arinsal sculpture trail gains a new addition: an ermine figure, emblematic of Comapedrosa, to be revealed on October 3 at the park entrance. It complements prior works depicting the ptarmigan, rock ptarmigan, chamois, dipper, and alpine newt.

Around 30 stalls will fill the cobbled lanes with Pyrenean produce, apparel, jewellery, home goods, and natural skincare from across the range. Traditional craft displays now feature a wood carver alongside others. Leveraging La Massana's Starlight destination and reserve status, the lineup includes a planetarium and evening skywatching.

Tourism, Commerce and Revitalisation councillor Mònica Solé said the varied agenda suits every age group, letting visitors immerse in the market vibe while exploring crafts, goods, and traditions. The event ties into promotion of the Parc de les Tres Nacions.

Further offerings encompass guided hikes for all abilities, wildlife talks, orienteering, fungus workshops, live performances, and a tapas trail with local eateries. A mini-tourist train will run all weekend from the village to the Comapedrosa park entrance.

Bookings via the La Massana + app are required for hikes, workshops, and planetarium sessions at €2 each, redeemable as a matching tapas route voucher.