Andorra has some awesome ski slopes, beautiful hotels, super friendly people and great things to do when you aren’t busy skiing down the slopes. I’ve been back here various times during snowfall because the whole experience is just so good!
If you’re a first time skier, the place is perfect for learning. There are many ski schools and all the teachers I’ve encountered have had great personalities and high standards of teaching. I actually took a few lessons myself there (as I have in a few other ski resorts) and I found my favourite instructor, Matteo. He was incredible at teaching and lovely to hang out with in general.
You can’t fly directly into Andorra itself, you would have to fly into one of the following airports and then get another form of transport to Andorra. From Spain: La Seu d’Urgell, Barcelona, Lleida, Reus and Girona. From France: Toulouse, Carcassonne and Perpignan. Most of these offer coach and minibus services to Andorra which are the easiest and most direct way to get there, just prepare yourself for a very long journey to reach your destination. It’s well worth the trip once you’re there!
Man-made things to do
Aprés-ski
This is a fancy name for a fun party after skiing! You’ll find many bars, in fact almost all of the bars, will host aprés-ski music, parties, drinks, snacks and just overall fun. It’s basically an excuse to have a few drinks after a ‘hard’ day of skiing, everyone does it and everyone loves it. The atmosphere is always buzzing, so I wouldn’t miss out on this.
Spa
If you’re in a cold place, a spa is always a great thing to do, especially if you’re a bit sore after skiing. There are many hotels with spas, yours may have one, if not there will be one in a hotel close to where you’re staying.
We had a great 3 story spa in our hotel, however we decided to go to the centre of Andorra to visit a spa called Caldea. The architecture gives this spa a unique and beautiful aesthetic, it’s a very cool space. It has a restaurant that you can eat at too and they host entertainment evenings. There is also an adults only area in here if you want to stay away from the children.
Shopping
The shopping in Andorra city centre is amazing. They have great shops from high end to lower end meaning they will definitely have anything you’re looking for. The streets are generally cool to walk around with a good atmosphere and the shopping centre is great too. If you’re looking for Christmas presents, this is the best place to shop in Andorra.
Tobogganing at Naturland
Tobogganing is super good fun and suitable for all ages from 7 upwards! This is not an activity offered at most ski resorts, it’s a unique experience where you get to go through the forest, have fun with your friends and family, enjoy amazing views and it’s super affordable – for the average ticket, it costs 20 euros for a child and 29 euros for an adult. There is also a restaurant that you can visit there. It’s so magical to go speeding through all of the trees covered in snow!
Natural things to do
General skiing
Skiing is the whole reason you’re reading this blog right?! It’s super good fun and there are lots of great slopes in Andorra. It’s a very easy resort to get around, there are great places to stop in the hills, lots of fun things to do like half pipes/ tubes* along the way and there are incredible instructors if it’s your first time.
There are awesome areas made purely for children that have fun characters around the sides of the slopes with small activities, there are breathtaking jumps that you can do if you are an advanced skier but also small ones if you aren’t but want to practice your skills and the climate there is great the majority of the time.
Snowshoeing
You get to walk through beautiful sights and if you like choose to go on a guided tour they will give you information about the history of Andorra and the sport itself.
Cross country skiing
This is similar to snowshoeing, however instead of snow shoes you go around on smaller than average skis and you walk with them rather then going down steep hills. This is a good way to get used to wearing the boots and being on skis, but it also gives you a great way to walk around the beautiful Andorra hills and take in the scenery.
Snowmobile
Snowmobiles are great fun and thrilling thing to do. You can go on tours that last up to two hours, covering all sorts of different areas (even caves, depending on your skill level!) which lets you truly tap into the adventurous side of yourself whilst getting to meet and spend time with other people.
Snow tubing
This always adds some thrills to your day. Snow tubing is when you sit in an inflatable and go down a hill. They go super fast and you can have races with your friends if you wish. This is a great activity for kids to do!
Must-do
Skiing (of course), visiting the city centre even if you aren’t going shopping, visiting Caldea, enjoying the aprés-ski and tobogganing.
Ski slopes/ areas to try out
*half pipes/ tubes
These are slopes that have really high sides which are often found off-piste and you can wiz up and down them fast. They are super fun however they do require skiing experience to use them without severely hurting yourself. If you cant find any, ask any of the instructors (they will all have uniform on so you’ll spot them easily enough) and they’ll show you where they are.
Kids slope areas
As I mentioned before, there are awesome areas made purely for children that have fun characters around the sides of the slopes with small activities such as hitting something or going over/ under something, perhaps tiny jumps.
This is great fun for children up to the age of about 12, however all areas have different age limits so do check when you are there (If you have a child they will let you go through with them). These areas will be indicated on the ski maps that you’ll find dotted around or that are provided by your accommodation. If you can’t find them on a map, you are bound to just come across one, they are usually well sign posted.
The big boy jumps
Andorra has an area with HUGE jumps on it where they often hold competitions, so keep your eye out for those. You have to know what you’re doing to go on these, they are definitely not for beginners or those who haven’t had any instruction in how to use them. They look like great fun, however I must admit I will never go on them myself!
Off-piste
This means going off of the marked and watched areas. The snow can be very deep and there are obstacles that you’ll have to go around including rocks, trees, streams and branches. However, if you know what you’re doing you will have the time of your life. Going off piste has to be one of my favourite skiing activities. Check out my ‘Need to know before you go’ section to see what skillset you will need to give this a go.
Slope colours and their meaning
In case you didn’t know, there is a very easy way to check out the level of difficulty of the slopes you have on your map. Slopes also have a sign right at the top with the colour coordinated to the level of difficulty, so you don’t have to worry about checking your map every 5 minutes.
It is vital that you understand the colours and can recognise them with no issue to avoid getting yourself into sticky situations. I will go through them all with you, even the ones that you may not find regularly as slope colours can change depending on the year.
The most important or common ones:
Blue
Easiest slopes. Not challenging, steep or narrow, beginners can use these with no problems and tend to learn on this colour.
Red
This is harder than the blue slopes (intermediate skill), they are steeper and can be narrower than the blue slopes, however if you are confident with your skiing even as a beginner you can use these slopes with caution.
Black
Black requires ‘expert’ skiing skills. You have to know exactly what do to and have great control. Black slopes vary a lot with difficulty, so be aware of that and look down the slope before you go on it just incase it is on the higher end of the difficulty scale. These slopes are steep and can be very narrow. If you struggle on red runs, don’t think for a second to go on a black run until you can master the red ones.
Rare ones:
Black diamond
VERY steep, very challenging, weather conditions are expected to be worse here, sudden turns will have to be made, very high skill is needed. Experts should be the only ones that use these.
Double black diamond
Extremely steep, have objects that can be in the way, tend to be bad with climate (for example stronger winds), only real experts can use these. They are very demanding and require a massive skillset.
Triple black diamond
I’m sure you can imagine what these are like. Don’t attempt this unless you can nail a black and nail a double black diamond. This type of slope is the most demanding, difficult slope there is. If you can class yourself as an extreme expert, then you will be fine.
(The black diamond is one diamond squared sign, the triple black diamonds look the same as this sign but with three diamonds)
Good rental places
When it comes to renting ski or snowboarding equipment, it’s usually best to get it from wherever is closest to you or closest to the ski lifts that you will be using as you won’t have to carry the equipment far once you’ve rented it. In some cases, your hotel itself may rent equipment out and that is super handy.
Just a heads up; renting ski equipment is very expensive. Try to get a good deal with your rental shop!
With that being said, here are some great ones to use especially if you are close to them:
- Sports Calbo Ski Rental,
- SHUSSKI SOLDEU PIOLET and here is a great thing about it- If you can book your skis online before your trip, you get 20% off as long as you show booking proof,
- Zephyr Rent Shop the prices here are some of the lowest you will find in that area,
- Andorra Ski Rental this place not only has great prices but also provides amazing discounts too.
Dining experience
Dining in any restaurant that you find up high in the slopes will be a great experience. The food is always amazing and the environment is perfect due to the great people and the breathtaking views that will accompany your meal.
The only thing to be aware of is the majority of the time these places are very expensive, so try to look at the menu and prices before you have a seat. They can also be very busy depending on the time of day, they are mainly busiest around 1pm, so prepare yourselves to wait a little while for a seat around that time.
Here are some great places to try out:
- L’Abarset Après Ski Grandvalira- clue’s in the name; this place is awesome for aprés ski, they hold big parties there (with guest DJs) and have great music so be sure to keep your eye out for any events like these when you go. However even when they aren’t holding these events, it’s a gorgeous place to have a meal or grab a couple of drinks.
- Le Madison- located right at the bottom of a slope and directly next to a lift to take you back up to the top when you’re done makes this place ideal. They have great food, great music, good prices and friendly staff.
- Coll blanc KSB- absolutely spectacular views from this amazing restaurant. It is a great spot to take in your surroundings, take great pictures and have great ones taken of you. I love this place for a stop off whilst skiing down a slope (it is located midway down one).
- Restaurant CAN MANEL- this place has been around since 1978, so that says a lot within itself! It’s a cute little place that makes great food, has great staff and good wait times.
- Kökosnøt- not only is the presentation of the food outstanding but so is their food itself, it’s great for a dressed-up dinner.
- For my fellow vegetarians, Veggie’s World is a must. Although this place is small it’s super cute and cozy and does amazing vegetarian and vegan food. I wouldn’t miss out on it if I were you.
The majority of restaurants in the town of Andorra and all of the restaurants on the slopes have perfect spots for you to store your skis outside.
No one has ever taken my skis before (people even leave gloves and helmets however I believe that’s pushing their luck a bit haha!) So you can feel safe leaving your things outside.
Where to stay
Below budget
- Hotel Panorama- restaurant and bar, fitness centre, lovely spa, room service, great location especially for shoppers, 24 hour reception, helpful staff, comfortable room, nice views, yummy breakfast buffet, great night sleep, strong wifi, excellent value for money. Price per night*, PER PERSON= 60 pounds, 71.15 euros, 80.98 USD.
- Hotel Sol-Park- great location, spa and massage services, free parking, great breakfast, clean rooms, value for money, friendly staff, nice views, tranquil. Price per night*, PER PERSON= 59 pounds, 70.03 Euros, 79.63 USD.
- Acta Arthotel- soundproof rooms, gym, great views, lovely restaurant, great location, near to bus services to ski slopes, rated one of the top favourites for solo travellers, very clean, comfortable rooms, super helpful staff, good breakfast, nicely sized rooms. Price per night*, PER PERSON= 88 pounds, 104.44 Euro, 118.77 USD.
Within budget
- Hotel MU & SPA- spa and massage services, heated rooms, buffet breakfast, 24 hour reception, free parking, laundry service, great staff, clean, comfortable rooms, good value for money, recommended for solo travellers, good location, pretty views, free bus service to nearest ski slopes, relaxing place and area. Price per night*, PER PERSON= 93 pounds, 110.42 Euros, 125.54 USD.
- Patagonia Atiram Hotel- perfect location, lovely spa, modern fitness centre, yummy restaurant, cozy atmosphere, excellent staff, clean, warm rooms, comfortable beds, parking, good wifi, self-catered rooms available, cool bar, kids play area, 24h reception- Price per night* PER PERSON= 108 pounds, 128.73 euros, 145.21 USD.
- Centric Atiram Hotel- great location especially for shoppers, heated rooms, great bar and restaurant, super modern fitness centre, amazing spa, close to bus station, great for solo travellers, helpful staff, super clean and quiet rooms- Price per night*, PER PERSON= 163 pounds, 194.28 euros, 219.15 USD.
No expense spared
- Andorra Park Hotel- beautiful place, modern, amazing views, perfect service, super clean, top quality restaurant, gorgeous bar, comfortable rooms, fully equipped gym, lovely spa, great location, great value for money, yummy breakfast buffet, near busses, laundry service, airport shuttle, wheelchair accessible- Price per night*,PER PERSON= 213 pounds, 253.87 euros, 286.38 USD.
- Hotel Univers- ideal location with free shuttle service to ski lifts, heated rooms, good wifi, yummy restaurant food, friendly staff, clean, comfortable rooms, lovely views, parking, great breakfast, cool bar, laundry service, fun games room- Price per night*, PER PERSON= 215 pounds, 256.26 euros, 289.07 USD.
- Hotel Plaza- stylish, great location for shoppers, good wifi, recommended for solo travellers, piano bar with live music, super clean, great spa, amazing staff, excellent buffets, super comfy rooms and beds, some rooms even have the cool Japanese toilets, great price for what it is- Price per night*, PER PERSON= 237 pounds, 282.48 euros, 318.65 USD.
*Prices I have chosen are based off of February the 5th-6th 2022 and the most basic rooms. Your prices will differ depending on when you choose to go and the type of room that you choose.
Transport
There aren’t a lot of options to get around in Andorra. The best way to get around depends on where you’re staying and what your hotel provides.
The majority of the bus services are private, however if you are in a ski resort and are not very close to the ski slopes themselves then you can expect your hotel should provide free shuttle service to them. On the other hand, if you are staying in the city centre there should be a lot of bus stops and public bus services.
Normally, ski resorts aren’t too far from the slopes, so walking is another great option and it’s what I did.
If you want to go to places further out, either renting a car or travelling in taxis is the best, most reliable way to get around. A word of warning: it can be very dangerous to drive in snowy conditions, you may need chains to go around your tires to prevent slipping, it’s best to confirm that with your rental company. There also aren’t a lot of parking spaces, so you may have to park further away than you hoped to. I would recommend a taxi in most cases.
What to pack
- Neck warmer,
- Gloves,
- Thermals,
- Lip balm,
- Sunscreen,
- Sunglasses,
- Scarfs,
- Beanies,
- Very warm clothes,
- Light jackets to go under your warmest coats so that when you take them off you are still warm if you go indoors,
- Thick long socks to wear when you are skiing/snowboarding,
- Comfortable shoes ( the last thing you want to wear is uncomfortable shoes after wearing the boots all day)
- Normal warm and waterproof boots for going out in the snow,
- Warm pyjamas,
- And most importantly, a very strong person to carry all your equipment round all day.
Need to know before you go
As I mentioned before, check out restaurants and bars before you enter them as some places can be very expensive, especially the ones on the ski slopes.
My recommendation when booking a hotel? Find somewhere as close to slopes as you can, but also in a fun area, and there isn’t much need to spend big bucks on a hotel if you are planning on going skiing all day every day, you’ll hardly be there!
Wearing thermals underneath your ski outfit is super important. One of the absolute worst things is skiing when you’re cold, it’s hard to get warm again and you will be at a high risk of frost bite. Try to cover up as best you can. This includes gloves to prevent your fingers from getting frost bite.
Neck warmers will be your friend, not only to keep your neck and chest area warm but to also be there for if you need to cover your face going down a windy slope.
Goggles are quite important as even if it’s cloudy the sun and UV rays will still be very strong reflecting off of the snow and onto your face. Use goggles to not only protect your eyes but to also help you see a lot better (sunglasses can be used too however these may come flying off and they are uncomfortable to wear with helmets).
Lip balm and sunscreen are important. Yes, you will get a burnt face and extremely dry lips if you don’t use these things, even if you don’t think it’s possible. It’s amazing how strong the sun is reflected back off the snow.
You may notice you have velcro on your gloves, use this to go over your ski jacket to help avoid snow going up your sleeve when you fall as that is very uncomfortable, cold and wet.
Wearing thick long socks when you are skiing or snowboarding will help not only to keep your feet warm but to also create a cushion between your foot and the ski boot to make it more comfortable for you.
Although this is an awesome place and the snowfall is usually perfect, there can be times where you may get unlucky and the slopes may be super icy. Unfortunately, this isn’t really avoidable, you will just have to hope for the best, which luckily is what you will get the majority of the time.
The snowfall is different during different periods of the year. It falls from January through June and then again from September through December. The best time to go, the Andorra proper ski season, is any time between December and April (I usually go at the beginning of February).
Skiing at night can be dangerous, the majority of the slopes close at different times of night to prevent people from doing this, however there are a few that may stay open. You should always stick to these as they are well lit up to prevent accidents. Just watch out stay aware of your surroundings if you decided to do this.
Be aware that skiing when there is a heavy fog or low clouds can be very scary, dangerous, and days like those can cause the snow to be very crispy and icy which is something you want to avoid.
Skiing off piste (off registered and monitored slopes) can be and is super fun if you know how to do it. Personally, it is one of my favourite activities, however you need to know that the snow can get very deep and it requires a different skillset to master to stay safe.
Some of these skill sets include: side stepping, skiing with your skis close together, how to put skis on if you fall, what to do if you fall, hop and kick turns, how to use poles, avalanche safety (depending on the extremity of the off piste you will be doing) etc… and you must be very cautious of trees, branches, rocks and other obstacles that will be in your way as these don’t get cleared up when you are off piste like they do on the monitored slopes.
Booking relatively early will give you more choice as Andorra is very popular during the skiing seasons.
I highly recommend renting skiing poles, they help balance, save you from falls and give you a sense of overall safety in general.
YOU NEED TO WEAR A HELMET. There’s no getting out of this, you’ll be moving fast and aren’t very clever if you don’t.
When it comes to renting cars; it can be very dangerous to drive in snowy conditions unless you have experience. You may need chains to go around your tires to prevent slipping, you can confirm that with your rental company. There also aren’t a lot of parking spaces, so you may have to park further away than you hoped to. Taxis are a better option.
Ski boots can be very uncomfortable and hard to walk in. Snowboarding boots however are very comfortable and easy to walk in.
You will fall over and hurt yourself a lot more when you are learning how to snowboard.
Carrying ski equipment is very difficult as it is heavy and just awkward to hold in general. If your hotel isn’t close to the slopes and you are choosing to walk to them, I would recommend looking for lockers next to the slopes where you can keep the equipment.
I would always recommend getting travel insurance if you don’t normally do this as it’s easy to hurt yourself whilst skiing or snowboarding, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Paths can get very slippery, so watch out and take care when you are taking each step. If the path looks shiny, it’s ice. Avoid that bit.
Oh and most importantly, never eat yellow snow ;)
If you have enjoyed this blog, feel free to check out somewhere else that I have written about!
