Situated among the vivid glacial landscapes of La Massana and Ordino, the Vallnord ski resort combines the two main sectors of Pal and Arinsal.
Although it is now known as Pal Arinsal, Vallnord used to be an umbrella brand encompassing the two alpine ski resorts of Pal and Arinsal.
To add to the ambiguity, the lesser-known Ordino Arcalís ski resort was also closely involved, often referred to by locals as the “Valls del Nord“, or the Northern Valleys.
Still, this is an extremely sought-after destination that attracts over 700,000 winter sports buffs from across the globe, mostly from Britain and Ireland.
Stats for Boarders and Skiers
Vallnord boasts 63 km of marked and groomed pistes situated between 1550 meters (top lift) and 2560 meters (bottom lift). These include:
- 7 green runs
- 18 blue runs
- 17 red runs
- 5 black runs
- 5 slaloms
- 296 snow canons
- 45 lifts
- 1000 meters of skiable vertical
- Cultivated snow on 45% of the pistes
Vallnord, or Pal Arinsal is operational 10 months a year — winter activities from Dec to April and summer activities from May to October.
Standout Ski Runs and Features
The ski runs here at the Pal Arinsal resort offer ample variation. There are several blue pistes, nursery slopes, and steep reds, but if you want to skip straight to the best, then check out:
- Setúria: A wide, gentle run in Arinsal, suitable for novice skiers and boarders.
- Les Fonts: A popular blue run suitable for beginners looking to build fluency.
- La Serra II: A red run known for views so beautiful, they’ll melt away your fatigue.
- El Coll: A challenging red run that requires more dexterity and skill.
- La Comellada: A black run highly regarded by expert shredders.
If alpine skiing doesn’t cut it and you need more gnar points, then the Snowpark should be on your radar. It’s an internationally renowned freestyle area in the Arinsal sector designed for those looking for a heart-pounding rush of adrenaline.
It has modules adapted to different skill levels. Ramps, jumps, rails, boxes, halfpipes, kicker lines — you name it. Don’t forget your brain bucket!
Non-skiers won’t feel left out at Pal Arinsal either, not in the slightest. It’s one of the most family-friendly ski resorts in Andorra for a reason, with lots of wintry activities on offer. Some of these include:
- Sledging
- Ice-skating
- Snowshoeing
- Paragliding
- Helicopter rides
- Speed riding
Those wanting to get into skiing and do it right can take to one of the two ski schools here that offer courses for all levels. You can opt for a 1 day or weekend crash course or a full-fledged season-long course.
Vallnord In Summer
The best part about ski towns is how radically the vibe shifts during the transition from winter to summer. Ski slopes turn into mountain bike trails and cold steely snowscapes turn into lush green fields.
Without a doubt, the highlight of Pal Arinsal during summer is the Vallnord Bike Park. It’s a purpose-built park that attracts thousands of mountain bikers every season.
Whether you ride downhill, cross-country, or love messing around on the pump track all afternoon, you’ll find something that fits your skill level. There’s a reason why it ranks 4th in the world.
It’s bested only by Åre Bike Park in Sweden; Portes du Soleil in France; and the iconic Whistler Bike Park, in Canada.
Overall, it spans over 40 kilometres of circuits and descents, with 29 classified areas:
- 21 downhill trails
- 2 enduro circuits
- 4 cross-country routes
- 1 four-cross trail
- 1 e-bike trail
- Practice area
- Kids park
- 1 pump track
Needless to say, you’ll find all the equipment necessary for transporting bikes to and from the highest point at the resort which is at an altitude of 2,354 meters.
Connectivity, Logistics, and Piste Map
Pal and Arinsal are conjoint ski sectors, even though they’re spread well across the valleys of La Massana and Ordino. They’re linked by a 50-person cable car and both have direct access to the foot of the slopes.
Pal is located on the other side of the mountain, with trails better suited to seasoned skiers. It lies just below Pic de Coma Pedrosa; the tallest peak in Andorra.
A telecabina takes skiers from the resort at La Massana into the Pal ski area, which then connects to the Arinsal sector via a chair lift.
Be aware that the closing time for this transit is 4:15 pm, so if you miss the last one, you’ll have to head back to the base area of either Pal or Arinsal and take the ski bus back to La Massana or Arinsal.
Conveniently, La Massana is only 6 kilometres from Andorra la Vella, so if you’re staying in the capital, you can either take a bus from Els Escalls to La Cabanota (L6) which costs €13 or you can drive through Túnel dels Dos Valires (CG-3A) if you’re in a rental or personal car.
It’s highly recommended that you don’t drive with summer tyres on snowy roads; you need snow chains. Up until Andorra la Vella, you’re fine, but if you’re driving up to any of the ski resorts, be sure to install chains or go when it’s clear and dry.
While you’re at Pal Arinsal, consider visiting Ordino Arcalís, which is just about 40 min away. It’s often the last resort to close and is popular among the locals thanks to its scenic slopes, unrivalled snow record, and freeride areas. There’s even a free-ski bus that links Ordino Arcalís to Pal Arinsal.
Activities for Children
Visiting Pal Arinsal with your kids doesn’t mean you have to limit the amount of time you spend at the slopes. The resort offers plenty of activities for the little ones where they’re introduced to the snow safely and engagingly.
Pal Arinsal is equipped with an on-site nursery and a snow garden with flexible hours. It’s located at the bottom of the nursery slopes; turn right when you get off the gondola or chair lift from the Ushuaia Hotel.
Nursery and Babyclub
Babyclub is a babysitting service where your wee munchkin can stay cosy and warm while being looked after by the experienced staff. Baby food and nappies are provided as well.
There’s also a nursery that includes activities such as playing with toys, story-time, entertaining videos appropriate for kids, and even painting.
Peke Parc
Fondly known as the Snow Garden, Peke Parc is right outside the nursery. It focuses primarily on teaching children the basics of skiing and snow activities in a controlled environment.
They can spend their time building snowpeople and enjoy their time outside until they’re ready to head back inside. It’s worth noting that the Peke Parc focuses more on fun than learning, so if you’re keen on your little ones developing their skills, then the Group Ski School will be a more appropriate place for them.
Sustainability
Safety and sustainability are at the forefront of Vallnord’s core principles. With an eventual goal of becoming 100% environmentally friendly, the resort takes active measures to reduce its ecological impact.
The use of plastics is kept at a minimum and regular clean-up drives are carried out to keep the mountain pristine. Safety measures have gotten more sophisticated over the years, with better signposting, frequently upgraded infrastructure, and regularly monitored slopes, including the backcountry.
Accommodation and Dining
Dining in the Pal Arinsal sector is delightful and adequately varied. Whether you fancy white-gloved elegance; haute cuisine; or a good ‘ol steak with beer and fries, you’ll find it here. Our favourites include:
- El Cabin
- California Grill
- OOLONG Coffee & Brunch
- The Derby Irish Pub
- Surf Arinsal
- La Tasca d’Arinsal
Accommodation is plentiful, with options ranging from luxury hotels to cosy chalets and even fully-serviced apartments. Here are some recommendations:
- Aparthotel Sant Andreu
- Hotel Yomo Patagonia
- Hotel Victoria
- Ribasol Ski Park
- Ushoaia, The Mountain Hotel
- Hotel Micolau
- Apartments Sant Moritz
- Xalet Verdú
Book With Andorra Escapes
You can count on us to make your planning and bookings easier. We’ll help you rent the right equipment for your needs, look after your transfer to Andorra and suggest accommodation that suits your needs.
To find out more about what’s on offer for your ski holiday here at Pal Arinsal, get in touch with us today.