In the early 2000s, some of the most emblematic Pyrenean resorts merged to form Grandvalira—the largest skiable area in the Iberian peninsula, right within the heart of Andorra.
It’s best thought of as a concept rather than a region. The meticulous planning, frequently upgraded infrastructure, and innovative additions to its winter catalogue ensure a steady influx of snow enthusiasts, slope-savvy tourists, and athletes from across the globe.
Andorra takes winter sports seriously, and Grandvalira is a testament to the fact. There’s plenty of terrain for novices and intermediates eager to hone their technique, with no dearth of ungroomed backcountry slopes and black runs for seasoned shredders.
Experience the international benchmark that is Grandvalira, with unrivalled accessibility to accommodation, duty-free shopping, and tons of après-ski entertainment to keep your stoke up.
Stats for Plankers
Here are some quick stats for your reference so you can get a feel for how vast and exciting Grandvalira’s terrain really is:
- 308 kilometres of pristine skiable slopes, making it the largest skiable area in the Pyrenees and Southern Europe. Seriously, this place has more kilometres of pistes than roads.
- 216 slopes catering to various skill levels: 24 green, 54 blue, 44 red, and 18 black, with 7 FIS-approved runs and 3 World Cup runs.
- 124 modern mechanical ski lifts that can carry over 170,000 skiers each hour.
- 3 freeride zones are monitored by experts to ensure utmost safety.
- 66% of the total area is equipped with cultivated snow to ensure a longer-lasting ski season.
- 10 ski schools with over 800 instructors.
Non-Ski Activities
While skiers and boarders are well served here, there’s no shortage of winter fun for those who don’t wish to indulge in alpine skiing. After all, this region is a combined effort of multiple resorts; expect a variety of activities to try out. Some of these include the following.
- Snowmobile excursions: Primarily available in the Grau Roig sector, snowmobile excursions are a laid-back and luxurious means of exploring glacial landscapes with your loved ones.
- Snowshoeing: Want an easy peasy way to explore snowy terrain at a leisurely pace? Then snowshoeing is for you, especially if you choose to do it after the sun goes down. No training is required for this activity; choose from three different routes, all located in the La Coma region of Ordino Arcalís.
- Nocturnal excursions: There’s nothing quite like traversing frosty moonlit wilderness, watching golden snowscapes as they bask in the ethereal glow of sodium-vapour lamps. The woods in Grandvalira make for the perfect setting for a nocturnal excursion, whether you choose dog sledges, snowmobiles, or snowshoes as your means of getting around.
- Igloo building: This is an excellent skill in your arsenal, although we hope you never need to use it for survival. Learn how to build an igloo from scratch at the Grau Roig sector in Grandvalira.
In addition to these wonderful experiences, there’s also zip lining, mushing, cross-country skiing, riding moonbikes, and more.
Grandvalira Ski Map and Sectors
Grandvalira, located in the core of Andorra, stretches eastward to the French border. This single resort is comprised of seven distinct sectors, each providing its own unique offerings. These include:
A modern express lift system seamlessly connects each of these, making lift queues are a thing of the past here in Andorra! Even in peak season. We recommend carrying a ski map with you. You’ll find these in most hotel receptions and at ticket windows at the bottom of every ski slope.
Obtaining a Ski Pass
If you’re sure of the activities you want to engage in during your ski holiday in Andorra, we recommend pre-booking your ski passes. Whether you’re visiting for a day, a week, or a month, we can help you select the exact dates and duration you need.
The ski passes are physical cards with integrated RFID chips that allow for hands-free operation; you won’t have to take off your gloves and fumble around trying to contact your card with the machine at the entrance. It will read it for you automatically, as long as it’s in your left pocket.
- Andorra / Grandvalira pass: A single pass providing access to Ordino Arcalís, Pal Arinsal (Vallnord), and Grandvalira. Can be procured as a season pass for unlimited season-wide access (summer and winter), or as a multi-day pass with which you can customise your access and cherry-pick your favourite sectors.
- Mountain pass: Includes ski mountaineering, snowshoeing, and more at all resorts in Grandvalira, along with access to ski lifts, with one telecabina return trip per day included.
- Nord pass: Includes access to Ordino Arcalís; a world leader in freeride skiing, making it ideal for anyone wanting to experience freestyle skiing in Grandvalira. It also includes access to summer lifts, as well as the coveted Pal Arinsal Bike Park.
Book Your Ski Holiday With Andorra Escapes
Rely on us as your one-stop source for all your skiing needs in Andorra. From securing accommodations and equipment rentals to providing insider tips and arranging airport transfers, we have you covered. For further details, feel free to reach out to us.