The first snowfalls of the season promise a special Christmas in Andorra, allowing you to enjoy snowy mountain landscapes, outdoor activities, and a varied agenda of leisure and cultural events. The Mountain Hostel Tarter is the perfect starting point to make the most of everything Andorra has to offer this year-end.
Whether you’re a beginner skier, prefer exploring snowy trails, or crave the adrenaline of freeriding, Andorra is your destination this Christmas. Take note of the proposals we offer to experience Christmas in the mountains.
1. Winter hiking in Vall d’Incles
Vall d’Incles, located just a few minutes from Mountain Hostel Tarter, is a favorite destination for winter hiking lovers. This valley, known for its natural beauty, transforms during the colder months into a snowy paradise, ideal for snowshoeing trails.
Among the most notable options is the path to the Cabana Sorda Refuge or the Siscaró Refuge, two moderately difficult routes that offer panoramic views of the snowy mountains, with elevation gains not exceeding 500 meters. Another option is the trail to Lake Juclà, the largest lake in Andorra, located at 2,300 meters, which in winter turns into a spectacle of ice and snow. All these routes are perfect for enjoying the silence and disconnection that the Pyrenees offer.
2. Skiing in Grandvalira
Grandvalira is the largest ski resort in the Pyrenees, with more than 210 kilometers of slopes, making it a perfect option for your Christmas holidays in Andorra. It features seven interconnected sectors and offers options for all levels, from beginners to experts seeking steeper alpine descents.
If you’re staying at the Mountain Hostel Tarter, accessing the slopes of Grandvalira is very easy, as the El Tarter sector is just a 10-minute walk away. And right at the departure point of the El Tarter gondola lift, you’ll find Andorra’s most iconic après-ski spot, l’Abarset. With a unique lineup of concerts and parties, you’ll want to extend your day at Grandvalira.
3. Freeride in Grandvalira
If you’re looking for thrills and want to explore the mountain in a freer way, freeriding in Grandvalira is an experience you can’t miss, especially after days of snowfall. This destination is recognized as one of the best for freeriding in the Pyrenees, thanks to its varied terrain and virgin snow areas.
Zones like Encampadana and Pic Blanc are ideal for the most adventurous skiers, offering more technical descents and breathtaking landscapes. Additionally, safety is a priority in Grandvalira, with marked freeride areas and experienced guides available for those who want to discover the best lines. Freeriding at Christmas is the perfect way to connect with the mountain in its purest state.
4. Andorra la Vella Christmas village
For a more recreational activity that you can’t miss this season, visit the Christmas Village located in the main square of Andorra la Vella. This authentic market combines artisan stalls, local products, and Christmas decorations. Don’t miss the musical performances, street shows along the main avenues, and the magical lighting that creates an enchanting atmosphere. From November 29 to January 5, 2025.
Andorra is one of the top destinations for skiing and winter sports enthusiasts. Nestled in the Pyrenees, this small country boasts some of the best ski slopes in Europe, as well as a wide variety of services for skiers. If you are planning your winter vacation in Andorra, here’s everything you need to know about its ski resorts, available ski passes, and some tips on finding the best accommodation.
Ski Resorts in Andorra
Andorra has three major alpine ski resorts that attract thousands of visitors every year:
Grandvalira
Grandvalira is the largest ski resort in the Pyrenees and one of the most renowned in Europe, offering over 210 kilometers of slopes. Grandvalira offers slopes for all levels, from beginners to expert skiers. It consists of 7 sectors: Encamp, Canillo, El Tarter, Soldeu, El Peretol, Grau Roig, and Pas de la Casa. Besides alpine skiing, Grandvalira offers activities such as dog sledding, snowmobiles, and zip-lining for the more adventurous.
Pal Arinsal
Located in the La Massana area, Pal Arinsal offers 63 kilometers of slopes, ideal for those looking for a family-friendly atmosphere. Its two sectors, Pal and Arinsal, are connected by a cable car and offer a wide variety of activities, such as snowshoeing and sledding. Arinsal also has one of the best snowparks, perfect for freestyle enthusiasts.
Ordino Arcalís
Known for having some of the best snow in the Pyrenees due to its orientation, Ordino Arcalís offers a more natural and less crowded environment. It’s the perfect place for those seeking a more alpine and authentic skiing experience. It also offers a variety of freeride routes and features spectacular views from the famous Tristaina Solar Viewpoint, accessible by snowshoe or ski touring.
Types of Ski Passes in Andorra
When planning your trip, it’s essential to know the types of ski passes available in Andorra to make the most of your skiing experience:
Day pass:
Ideal if you only plan to ski for a day. You can purchase it directly at the ticket offices or book online to avoid queues.
Multi-day pass:
Perfect for those spending several days in Andorra. You can purchase the Grandvalira pass, which gives you access to all three ski resorts in Andorra. Alternatively, you can buy the Nord Pass, which grants access to Pal Arinsal and Ordino Arcalís.
Season ski pass:
If you’re a ski enthusiast and plan to visit Andorra more than once during the season, a season pass is the most economical option in the long run. It allows unlimited skiing throughout the season. There are two options: the Grandvalira season pass for skiing at all three resorts, and the Nord Pass, which covers Pal Arinsal and Ordino Arcalís. You can buy it here.
Plus+ ski pass:
Perhaps the least known but still a great option. With the Forfait Plus+, you can ski at Grandvalira, Pal Arinsal, and Ordino Arcalís. It’s a pay-per-use pass linked to a credit card, and you automatically receive a 15% discount each time you ski. You can buy it here.
Tips for finding the best accommodation in Andorra in winter
Now that you’ve decided on the resort and ski pass, it’s time to find accommodation in Andorra for the ski season. Here are some tips to ensure a comfortable stay close to the slopes:
Book in advance:
Andorra is a very popular winter destination, so we recommend booking your accommodation well in advance. This will allow you to find better deals and options close to the ski slopes.
Accommodations near the resorts:
If you want to make the most of your skiing time, it’s best to stay in towns close to the ski resorts. Canillo, Soldeu, and El Tarter are some of the best options near Grandvalira. In Pal Arinsal, consider staying in La Massana or Arinsal.
Look for hotels with additional services:
Many hotels in Andorra offer services such as free transportation to the ski slopes, ski equipment rental, or even a spa to relax after a day on the slopes. These extras can make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable.
Chalets or group accommodations:
If you’re traveling with a group or family, renting a chalet or house can be an excellent option. You’ll not only have more space but also the ability to cook your own meals, saving on restaurant costs. We recommend booking Mountain Hostel El Tarter exclusively for your group, with a capacity for over 20 people.
If you’re planning a ski trip to Andorra, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, choosing the right equipment is a must for maximum enjoyment in the snow and, above all, on the ski slopes of Grandvalira, the largest ski resort in the Pyrenees.
Having the right equipment will not only make you feel comfortable, but will also improve your performance and safety on the slopes.
Below, we offer you a detailed guide on the ski equipment and gear you need, along with some recommendations that we believe will be useful for your trip to Andorra.
Skis: How to choose the right ones
Skis are, without a doubt, the most important piece of equipment. There are different types of skis depending on your skill level and the type of skiing you want to practice (piste, freeride, freestyle, ski touring…).
Piste skis: Perfect for those who prefer to glide smoothly on the well-prepared slopes of Grandvalira. These skis offer good grip on hard snow and are easy to control.
All-mountain skis: Ideal for those who want a bit of everything. They offer versatility on different types of snow.
Freeride or off-piste skis: These are wider and designed for those who enjoy skiing on untouched snow and untracked terrain.
In Grandvalira, you can practice different disciplines, so it’s important to choose the right skis. If you don’t have your own, don’t worry! Andorra has several specialized stores that offer high-quality ski rentals and, in addition, a team of professionals who will advise you based on the discipline and your skill level.
Where to rent or buy skis in Andorra
In Andorra, you can find specialized stores that offer both rentals and sales of equipment. Some of the most well-known are:
Skiz1700: Ski and snowboard rental featuring the best brands on the market. Book here.
Viladomat Esports: One of the largest stores in Andorra, with a wide selection of skis for all types of skiers.
Shusski – Pic Negre: Specialized in skis and snowboards, with several stores in different sectors of Grandvalira.
Ski boots: comfort and control
Ski boots are crucial for your comfort and performance on the slopes. Poorly fitting boots can make your days on the snow painful, while well-chosen boots will provide you with stability and control. Make sure they fit your feet properly, and if you don’t have experience in choosing boots, consult an expert at a store.
Technical clothing: protection against the cold
Mountain weather can be unpredictable, so wearing the right clothing is essential. When skiing, the key is to dress in layers:
Base layer (thermal underwear): Keeps you dry by wicking away sweat.
Mid-layer: Provides insulation, usually with fleece or wool garments.
Outer layer (ski jacket and pants): This layer should be waterproof and windproof to protect you from the elements.
Technical clothing is specifically designed to retain heat while allowing for breathability, which is crucial during long ski days at Grandvalira.
Helmet and goggles: safety and clear vision
Safety comes first, and a ski helmet is essential to protect you from potential falls or collisions. In addition, in Andorra, it is mandatory for minors and highly recommended for all skiers, regardless of their experience.
Ski goggles protect you from the sun’s reflection on the snow and improve your visibility in low light or snowy conditions. Make sure to choose goggles with UV protection and a lens suitable for different weather conditions.
Essential accessories: gloves, poles, and more
Don’t underestimate the importance of accessories. A good pair of quality gloves or mittens will keep your hands warm, which is crucial in sub-zero temperatures. Ski poles are also essential for maintaining balance and speed, especially on more challenging terrain like that offered by Grandvalira.
Other useful accessories include:
Sunscreen: In the mountains, solar radiation can be more intense due to the reflection of the snow.
Neck gaiter or balaclava: Helps protect your face from the wind and cold.
Ski backpack: Ideal for carrying water, snacks, and any additional gear.
Equipment Rental in Grandvalira
If you prefer not to buy all the equipment, Grandvalira offers several rental shops within the ski domain, where you can rent everything from skis and boots to helmets and poles. These shops are located in all sectors and close to the lifts, so you can easily pick up and return your equipment.
In conclusion, it’s important to choose the right equipment, from skis to accessories, to ensure your safety and comfort. Whether you decide to buy your gear or rent it from the specialized shops in Andorra, make sure you are well-equipped to enjoy the more than 210 km of slopes at Grandvalira.
Practical guide to enjoy your ski Easter Holidays 2023 in Andorra. The 9 best things to do in Easter in Andorra
April in Andorra is synonymous with good weather, sun and good temperatures, but also snow. So here is our proposal for a ski Easter Holidays in Andorra.
1. Skiing and snowboarding in Grandvalira-Andorra during Easter 2023
Surely you’ve heard of Grandvalira-Andorra, the largest ski resort in the Pyrenees, with more than 210km of slopes at your feet, with modern, high-capacity ski lifts and high-quality facilities and services. Whether you are an expert skier or snowboarder, or it’s the first time you ski in your life, this is an experience you cannot miss if you come to Andorra in winter or Easter. At Mountain Hostel Tarter we have everything ready and we make it very easy for you. We are also right in front of Grandvalira, in the sector of El Tarter. A stone’s throw away.
Mountain Hostel Tarter, 500 meters far away from Grandvalira- El Tarter
If you are an expert, you can choose any of our ski packages at Grandvalira, which include accommodation and ski pass at Grandvalira, also in Easter. It’s our star package: SLEEP & RIDE, which includes accommodation at Mountain Hostel Tarter and Grandvalira ski pass for as many days you want. If you are new with this matter, don’t worry, we will prepare a customized Grandvalira ski pack to make it all very easy and you can enjoy it to the fullest: accommodation at Mountain Hostel Tarter, ski pass at Grandvalira, ski or snowboard lessons with private instructor or group classes, lunch on slopes, ski equipment rental … everything you want, we have it. We love to ski in Grandvalira…and don’t miss your ski Easter Holidays in Andorra.
2. Snowshoeing through the Vall d’Incles in Andorra
It is not the adrenaline, but it’s the majesty of the landscape that makes this an unforgettable experience. You do not need to have experience or a great physical form. It is only a walk, but through a splendid, monumental valley, and beautiful in winter. It’s a must be.
Vall d’Incles in winter
The Incles Valley is a few meters far away from the Mountain Hostel Tarter, very easy access from the hostel. If you want to go your way, you only have to rent snowshoes for € 10 a day. Or if you prefer to sign up for one of our outings, with a guide, you can do it from € 45 per day. + INFO HERE
3. Cross-country skiing or splitboarding in Andorra
If snowshoeing is a small thing for you, and if you have a medium-high level of skiing or snowboarding, then yes or yes you have to try cross-country skiing in Andorra, or go for a walk with the splitboard.
Cross-country skiing in Andorra from Mountain Hostel Tarter
If you do not have much knowledge about snow, types of snow, and the risk of avalanches, or do not know the area, we recommend going out with a guide. And we know the best guides in Andorra. Just tell us and we’ll arrange it. To reach the highest peaks of Andorra and to run by virgin faces, is a gem. + INFO HERE
4. “Sa Terrasseta”, the best terrace in Andorra
After an exahusting day in the mountains, we recommend you stop by “Sa Terrasseta”, the hostel’s terrace.
Our food truck serves the best hamburgers in ttown. The best place to get your strength back and have a drink, in the open air, in the middle of the mountain with wonderful views of Grandvalira and the mountains.
In addition, this Easter 2023, coincides with the “closing” of the winter season in Sa Terrasseta, with some special events and live music. Here is our Insta to keep you updated; Sa Terrasseta
It’s an important part of a ski Easter Holidays in Andorra.
5. Whirlpool session in the outdoor hot tub of Mountain Hostel Tarter, with hot water and mountain views.
A picture is worth a thousand words:
Outdoor swim spa at Mountain Hostel Tarter with mountain views
It sounds good, right? Well, it will be better when you explain to your friends that you have taken a whirlpool bath in our outdoor hot tub in the mountains. Yes, as you hear it. At Mountain Hostel Tarter we have an outdoor pool-hot tub, on the upper terrace, with spectacular views of the mountain and the Grandvalira ski slopes. And of course with hot water, to enjoy it even on snowy and cold days. But beware! We warn you: it will be easy to enter, but not to leave, you will want to stay-in there all day …
And the jewel in the crown is the new Finnish sauna with real wood fire. A unique experience.
6. The best après-ski party in Andorra, in L’Abarset
L’Abarset and its large terrace is undoubtedly the best après-ski of Grandvalira and Andorra. Every Saturday, starting at 4pm, the party begins in L’Abarset, on the outdoor terrace, with artists and DJs of international renown throughout the season. An appointment that cannot be missed. The best way to end a good day on the slopes, and among friends. And this 2 minutes’ walk from the Mountain Hostel Tarter …
The best Après-ski in Andorra, in L’Abarset
7. Afternoon relaxing in the warmth of the fireplace in the chill area of Mountain Hostel Tarter..
We understand very well if you want avoid parties and shopping. Because as at home, nowhere. And in our chill area, in Mountain Hostel Tarter, with comfortable bean bags and sofas, television, reading, board games,… it is very easy to be enchanted with the fire and the heat of our fireplace that we light every evening during the winter. After an intense day on the mountains, after a swim in our outdoor pool-hot tub and a good hot shower, relax in one of our bean bags, chatting with friends or reading a book, the warmth of the fireplace is more than recommended. It is food for the soul.
Fireplace al Mountain Hostel Tarter
8. An afternoon of shopping in Andorra, and have a drink in the old town of Andorra la Vella
It’s the topic! Go to Andorra for shopping. The truth is that it does not hurt to take a walk through the main commercial axis of the country. In a single street, you will find everything: fashion, sports, technology, perfumery, pharmacy … whatever you want, you will surely find it. The best? Take a walk through the old town of Andorra la Vella, with pedestrian alleyways, old houses with stone walls and slate roof, historic buildings, etc … It is a neighborhood where new bars and restaurants are opening with a lot of charm to snack and drink
Urban center of Andorra La Vella and Escaldes-Engordany
9. Lunch or dinner at NØR RESTAURANT
Our meeting point, both in the evenings for drinks and snacks and for dinner. Next to the Mountain Hostel Tarter. It’s our favourite. You can tell, can’t you?
The NØR RESTAURANT is a new restaurant in Andorra where they cook with wood and smoke. A restaurant concept that combines innovation and tradition in equal parts, where smoke and fire give a unique identity to all the dishes. All the dishes, including the smoked meats, are homemade, with top quality ingredients and meat from the Pyrenees. And let’s not forget the excellent wine pairing they offer, with carefully selected wines to accompany each dish. It is an explosion for the senses, where the most important thing is the quality of each dish and enjoying them in good company and with good music! Attention to their playlist!
New restaurant NØR RESTAURANT in Andorra, cuisine based on fire and smoke with top quality ingredients and Pyrenean meat. Here you have their instagram to get you started: NØR RESTAURANT
Mountain Hostel Tarter the best place to stay in Andorra, while you are looking for work and accommodation in Andorra for the winter season.
Mountain Hostel Tarter is the perfect place to stay for your arrival time in Andorra, while you’re looking for rent a flat, or in the process of getting your work visa.
Furthermore, for being a Grandvalira worker, you can take advantage of the best price at Mountain Hostel Tarter. 17€ per person per day. It doesn’t matter if it’s working day or weekend. This offer is available until the 24th November 2016. After that we can offer 10% discount from the official price.
Welcome to Mountain Hostel Tarter!
The Andorra’s hostel situated in El Tarter, 200 meters away from Grandvalira – El Tater.
Mountain Hostel Tarter is a unique establishment in Andorra, designed to offer what we usually look out for when we’re travelling: a comfy and practical place to stay, in a warm and friendly atmosphere. You’ll be staying at a sustainable hostel, where we use solar power, and other energy saving methods, and we contribute to recycling.
Rooms
Your own space, in a shared room
Mountain Hostel Tarter is a hostel where rooms and facilities are shared. There are rooms for 5 people (2 bunks and an individual bed), and rooms for 4 people (2 bunks). Each bed has its own reading light, electric socket and locker. You can bring your own padlock or buy one for 2€ at the hostel. You’ll see the mountains through all our windows… and the sky! And there’s free Wi-Fi in all the rooms!
Services & Facilities
A small universe, at your reach
Modern facilities with toilets and showers (also shared, but with individual cubicles). Hot water 24h. We rent clean towels for €2,00.
Diner room with modern kitchen, fully equipped, to prepare all meals, and with snack and drink machine. Enjoy tea and coffee for free!
Living room with fireplace, sofas, bean-bags, TV, books, board games and free Wi-Fi.
Free Wi-Fi available in the entire hostel, rooms included.
Laundry service: wash and dry machine (about 4kg for 6€)
Ski locker and boot dryer.
It’s the perfect place to stay, in an easy, practical, comfortable and sustainable way, where you’ll meet and share experiences with other travellers, and enjoy a warm and homely stay.
