Andorra, a small principality nestled high in the Pyrenees between France and Spain, has become a premier skiing destination in Europe. Known for its excellent value and impressive infrastructure, Andorra offers two major ski areas: Grandvalira
, the largest ski resort in the Pyrenees with over 200 kilometres of interconnected slopes, and Vallnord
, which combines the Pal-Arinsal and Ordino-Arcalís sectors, ideal for families and freeride enthusiasts. These resorts cater to all levels, from beginners to seasoned skiers and snowboarders, with a wide range of blue, red, and black runs, as well as snow parks and off-piste opportunities.
Andorra benefits from a long ski season, typically running from December to April, thanks to its high altitude and advanced snow-making systems. Beyond the slopes, visitors can enjoy a vibrant après-ski scene, with cosy mountain restaurants, bars, and thermal spas like Caldea
, one of Europe’s largest wellness centres. The country’s duty-free status also makes it a hotspot for shopping, offering everything from ski gear to luxury goods at reduced prices. With its blend of affordability, modern facilities, and stunning natural beauty, Andorra is a hidden gem for winter sports lovers seeking a unique alpine experience.
3* Hotel Bruxelles
In the centre of town.
Minutes away from the gondola.
Enjoy an après-ski drink in the hotel bar.
If a tip-top location is first on your priority list, the Hotel Bruxelles will be right up your street. It overlooks the snow front and is just a couple of minutes away from the Telecabina de Soldeu gondola, so getting to the slopes is a breeze.
The wooden beams, white walls and splashes of red give the rooms a cute and cosy alpine feel. And you'll find that rustic, chalet-style décor throughout the rest of the hotel too, with lots of natural wood and stone details in the bar and restaurant areas.
With a continental buffet breakfast and 3-course evening meal on the agenda each day, your meals are covered. After a days skiing, lap up the sun on the terrace with a drink, then head inside to the bar, it's the place to be in the evenings – grab a drink, pull up a stool and swap slope stories with the other guests. There's a friendly, fun vibe here, and it's the perfect place to plan your next day on the hill.
Soldeu
Small and authentic, with luxury hotels and high-altitude Grandvalira skiing.
Accommodation ticks all the boxes for quality, facilities and value.
Pretty stone buildings give an authentic feel to the relaxed village.
Learn the ropes or improve your technique at the excellent ski school.
Soldeu’s in the middle of the Grandvalira, the biggest ski area in Andorra. The gondola whisks you up to 215km of slopes that are especially suited to beginners and intermediates – starting with the superb ski school at the top of the gondola, where you’ll get good snow and views from day one. More experienced skiers can set out in either direction to explore the rest of the area, then ski back down to Soldeu on tree-lined blue or black runs.
The village is popular with families and those after a little luxury, and everything’s lined up along one central road, meaning it’s really easy to get around. The hotels are mainly rated four or five stars, and many of them have spas and kids’ clubs – so when you’re not skiing, you can spend some time unwinding in the pools and saunas while the little ones have fun with games and soft play.
If you’re looking for something a little livelier, Soldeu’s also got a handful of bars where you can round off your day listening to live music and chatting over drinks with friends.
PART OF THE Soldeu SKI AREA
Snow range
1,710-2,640m
Resort height
1,800m
Grandvalira 215km
Piste type
Number of runs
Easy
56
Intermediate
32
Difficult
22
Price per Person
From €1,169 (based on 2 people sharing)
92 Patrick Street, Cork, Ireland Registration No 100308
Licensed by the Irish Aviation Authority,
TA0720.
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