Andorra la Vella – a skiing holiday combining the Pyrenees with city life: hit the slopes in the morning, then stroll through the town in the evening? In Andorra la Vella, you can have both. Andorra’s capital lies at an altitude of around 1,050 metres, nestled amongst the Pyrenees. Those staying here can decide each morning which ski resort to visit. And once you’ve completed your final run, the day is far from over. For a day’s skiing in Grandvalira, the best way to access the slopes is via Encamp. There, the Funicamp gondola lifts winter sports enthusiasts up to the extensive network of slopes. Those who prefer to alternate between forest runs and open slopes should head to La Massana and take the gondola up to the Pal Arinsal ski resort. Ordino Arcalís is a little further away, but the journey is well worth it for the high-alpine terrain and stunning scenery. Experienced skiers in particular appreciate the opportunities off the groomed slopes – provided, of course, they have the appropriate equipment and are familiar with the conditions. Families will find accessible practice areas in Pal Arinsal. If you’d like to try out several ski resorts, you should check which ski pass is valid before booking. Not every ticket covers all areas. A handy tip: decide on your ski resort and how to get there the evening before. Andorra la Vella isn’t situated directly on the slopes; so you’ll need to factor in a bus, car or ski transfer when planning your day. It’s particularly worth setting off early during the school holidays. If you’d like to hire skis, you can do so either in Andorra la Vella or at the respective ski resorts. Once you’ve swapped your ski boots for everyday shoes, do pop into the historic centre. Nestled amongst narrow alleyways and old stone houses stands the Casa de la Vall, once the seat of the Andorran Parliament. The Church of Sant Esteve is also worth a visit. The area around the Plaça del Poble is ideal for taking photos in the evening light. Fancy a spot of shopping? Sports shops, fashion boutiques and perfumeries line Avinguda Meritxell. It’s worth comparing prices, especially for winter sports equipment. Those who prefer to relax can head to the Caldea thermal spa in neighbouring Escaldes-Engordany. After all, there’s something special about a warm bath after a cold day in the mountains. For dinner, it’s worth seeking out a place off the main street. Many menus feature hearty mountain dishes, such as trinxat made from potatoes and cabbage. Afterwards, take a short stroll through the illuminated streets – or head straight back to the hotel. For a morning away from the slopes, the Rec del Solà walking trail above the town is highly recommended when trail conditions are good. From there, you can see just how closely the houses and mountains nestle together here. That’s exactly what makes a winter holiday in Andorra la Vella so appealing: three different ski resorts within easy reach, plus restaurants, culture and city life, without having to spend every evening in the same place.
