Ever-increasing in popularity as a duty-free skiing holiday destination, the Grandvilara in Andorra is now the 6th largest skiing area in Europe. Encompassing resorts Grau Roig, Pas de la Casa & Soldeu-El Tarter, Canillo and Encamp, the high-altitude skiing area is the largest area in the Pyrenees.
The 193km of well maintained pisted runs make the area comparable to big name ski areas such as Kitzbuhel and Les Deux Alpes. The skiing area is split between two main resorts, Pas de la Casa has the largest amount of terrain with over 100km of mainly treeless pisted runs whilst sheltered Soldeu-El Tarter is the skiing centre-point of Andorra. Soldeu is famous for its British run section for English-speaking visitors.
The area has seen €112 million of fresh investment into a state-of-the art speedy lift system of chairs, gondolas and cable cars. Beginners will get to grips on the excellent ‘Piso,’ ‘Pessons,’ and ‘Abelletes’ green slopes. Intermediates on their skiing holiday will find ample rip-roaring blues and reds to sweep down; Eclipse Ski’s hot tip is to try the scenic ‘Pic Negre D’Envalira’ for breathtaking views, at the highest point of Andorra at 2,822m. Advanced skiers can test their skills (and nerves!) on off-piste runs ‘Llebre’ and ‘Avet.’ Prices of the lift pass are climbing, but if you’re travelling on a group ski holiday it’s possible to get a good group ski deal.
A great destination for non-skiers, there is igloo building, helicopter tours, horse riding and spa centres for the ladies. The nightlife is at the livelier end of the scale in Soldeu and Pas de la Casa, with bars and clubs open until the early hours. The prices are tax free guaranteeing cheap drinks, cigarettes and shopping.
Skiing resorts in the Grandvilara skiing area:
Grau Roig
Pas de la Casa
Soldeu-El Tarter
Canillo
Encamp
