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mountain hostel tarter

Why choose a hostel in Andorra for your winter vacation?

Andorra is the perfect destination for winter lovers and especially for skiing enthusiasts. If you’re looking for a unique and affordable experience, staying in a hostel in Andorra might be the best option. Hostels and lodges offer an authentic way to experience the destination, connecting with other travelers and providing competitive prices while maintaining exceptional quality.

mountain hostel tarter

Reasons to choose a hostel in Andorra

Hostels in Andorra have evolved significantly in recent years, offering modern, cozy facilities at accessible prices. Staying in a hostel allows you to meet people from all over the world, share travel experiences, and enjoy a social and relaxed atmosphere. For those looking to maximize their budget, this is an excellent way to experience Andorra authentically, without sacrificing comfort.

Additionally, many hostels in Andorra, like the Mountain Hostel Tarter, are strategically located close to the Grandvalira ski slopes, allowing you to enjoy a full mountain experience and save on transportation.

The advantage of staying near the ski slopes

Being just a few minutes away from the slopes is one of the greatest benefits of choosing a hostel in Andorra, like the Mountain Hostel Tarter. With such close accommodation to Grandvalira, you’ll enjoy more time on the snow and less time in transfers. In just a few minutes, you can be fully geared up and among the first to carve down the freshly groomed slopes.

Moreover, at the end of the day, El Tarter offers several entertainment options to continue your day, with great restaurants, good music, and, of course, the heated pool at the Mountain Hostel Tarter.

Skiing in Grandvalira

Andorra: a winter destination beyond skiing

While skiing and snowboarding are the main activities, Andorra has much more to offer. From hiking trails in snowy landscapes to wellness options at mountain spas, such as the Caldea thermal center, this small country has something for everyone. And if you prefer a more relaxed pace, the center of Andorra la Vella and Escaldes-Engordany are ideal for a day of tax-free shopping.

In a hostel in Andorra, you’ll not only discover typical activities but also have access to local recommendations and authentic experiences that help you make the most of every corner of the destination. The unique atmosphere of a hostel encourages the exchange of ideas and experiences, allowing you to discover options you might not have considered.

Mountain Hostel Tarter: your best hostel option in Andorra

At Mountain Hostel Tarter, we offer not only a privileged location, but also facilities designed for you to enjoy an unforgettable winter in Andorra. With cozy spaces, stunning views, and a heated pool, our hostel in Andorra is the ideal place for those seeking an authentic and affordable mountain experience.

Book your stay with us and discover why a hostel in Andorra is one of the best choices for a snow vacation.

Estación de esquí de Grandvalira

Ski Slopes in Andorra: Stations, Ski Passes, and Accommodation Tips

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

Grandvalira ski resort 

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

Freeride in Ordino Arcalís

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

Mountain Hostel El Tarter room

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.

Enjoy Andorra!

esquiador

Complete ski equipment guide: What you need for your ski trip to Andorra and Grandvalira

All the ski equipment you need for skiing

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 and boots

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.

Skier with helmet

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.

See you on the slopes! Book now!

Andorra – Grandvalira

THIS IS OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU, IN OUR HOUSE, ABOUT THE PREVENTION OF COVID-19

At Mountain Hostel Tarter, your health and the
health of our staff comes first. These are the steps we
take to fulfill our commitment to you in preventing Covid-19.

On Friday the 3rd July 2020 we re-open our hostel, after the forced stop because of Covid-19. Finally, the to meet you again has come and we are already excited. So this is our covid-19 prevention commitment to you.

Although the essence of our hostel is the same,
something has changed in these months, and we want to tell you about it.

At Mountain Hostel Tarter, your health, well-being and safety come first, as does that of our staff. Here, we explain the measures we have taken to fulfill our commitment to cleanliness and well-being in our hostel.

HOW WILL THE HOSTEL WORK NOW?

All the
spaces and services of the hostel will be in operation, except the sauna, for
the moment, following the recommendation of the Ministry of Health of
the Andorra Government.

In addition, we will have a limited maximum capacity, in order to ensure the recommended distance of 1.5 meters between guests who are not from the same travel group. Even so, be sure to bring your mask, since its use is mandatory inside the hostel.

We also ask you,
as far as possible, to make a prior reservation. This way
we can better organize ourselves to apply all the protocols that we introduced
for the prevention of Covid-19. So, when you book, once
the reservation is confirmed, we will send you the instructions for check-in,
so that when you arrive at the hostel we have to exchange as few items as
possible at the reception.

WHAT DO WE DO?

Every day we start our working days remembering
how important cleanliness is to our health and that of our guests.

So we have prepared ourselves in a very
demanding way on cleaning and hygiene protocols for all our spaces. We were
already tough before with cleaning … imagine now! And we continue doing it
day by day, very aware of the covid-19, coordinated with local authorities and
following the guidelines of the Ministry of Health of the Andorra
Government and the World Health Organization.
Our commitment to you in the prevention of Covid-19 is very important to us.

In the rooms

In the rooms, we use effective cleaning and
disinfection products against the virus, and we have developed an even more
exhaustive cleaning and disinfection protocol, if possible, to clean the rooms.
Especially when a guest leaves and before the next one arrives, paying special
attention to frequent contact elements and spraying disinfectant on all
surfaces.

Furthermore, disinfection of bedding is
guaranteed. All bedding is washed above 60ºC and tumble dried at temperatures
close to 100ºC.

Of course, the room key is also disinfected
every time we give it to you, or you return it to us.

In common areas

In common areas we have increased the frequency
of cleaning and use special disinfection products (viricide), especially in the
living room, dining room, kitchen, bathroom and terrace, paying special
attention to surfaces and elements of frequent contact.

We have also installed disinfection stations,
equipped with disinfecting gel for hands, paper and a disinfecting spray for
surfaces. Even suitable for surfaces and food items such as kitchenware. The
idea is that you can disinfect the furniture, surfaces and utensils that you
use, before and after use, for your own peace of mind.

In our workspaces

Our back office is also important, and we have been stepped up the cleaning and disinfection in our spaces and in our work tools, as part of our covid-19 prevention commitment to you.

WHAT WILL YOU HAVE TO
DO?

Very easy, just 4 things! DISTANCE | HANDS | MASK | DISINFECTION

  • DISTANCE

Try to keep the minimum distance of 1.5 meters
between hostel guests who are not in your travel group. Especially in the
common areas of the hostel.

  • HANDS

Remember to wash your hands frequently, between
30 and 40 seconds, all parts of the hand, with hot water and soap. In addition,
we provide hand sanitizing gel at various points within the hostel.

  • MASK

Remember to bring your own mask, since its use
is mandatory in the common areas of the hostel.

  • DISINFECTION

For your safety and your own peace of mind, at
the disinfection station we provide you, 24 hours a day, the necessary products
so that you can disinfect yourself the furniture or utensils in common use,
before and after using them.

Easy, right? In this way, we will guarantee
everyone’s health while we stay together in the hostel. Count on us to prevent
Covid-19. And we are sure that we count on your collaboration for the safety
and well-being of all in the hostel. True?

Welcome home again! Welcome to Mountain Hostel
Tarter!

You can follow the recommendations and advice of the Andorra Government on how to prevent Covid-19, on the official website https://www.govern.ad/recomanacions

If you have any questions you can send us an @mail to info@mountainhosteltarter.com