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Inghams Sings the Praises of Andorra

The principality in the Pyrenees is a great alternative to the Alps for your next winter holiday according to the UK tour operator.

The ski tour operator Inghams describes Andorra as a ‘hidden gem’.

“While Andorra might not be an obvious choice, its resorts have a lot to offer for skiers of all kinds, whether it’s couples, large groups, beginners through to experts – Andorra has something for everyone,” Inghams says.

Andorra has one big advantage over most ski areas.

It has duty-free status.

It means food and drinks are cheaper than in other ski countries.

“Aside from being a great value option, Andorra is a modern and extensive ski destination which has undergone a multi-million-pound renovation in recent years, including state-of-the-art lifts and snow-making facilities,” Inghams says.

Here at PlanetSKI we are big fans of  Andorra and the Pyrenees in general.

There are still some seasoned skiers and snowboarders who have yet to experience its charms.

We question why it is overlooked by some.

PlanetSKI in Andorra. Grandvalira, Andorra. Image © PlanetSKI

PlanetSKI in Grandvalira, Andorra. Image © PlanetSKI

Inghams offers holidays to two areas of Andorra: Soldeu/Pas de la Casa and Arinsal.

Soldeu and Pas de la Casa

Known as the Grandvalira super-ski area, this is the larger of the two regions offered by Inghams with over 200km of slopes.

It’s a good choice for those who love après-ski,  beginners and groups.

Hotels include:

  • Hotel Soldeu Maistre (Soldeu) – a friendly family-run hotel that offers excellent value and is furnished throughout to a high standard in local Catalan style.
  • Hotel Euro Ski (Soldeu) –a 4-star hotel with wellness and fitness facilities,  a lively bar with drinks packages available at an additional cost.
  • Park Piolets Mountain Resort & Spa (Soldeu) – an Inghams fan favourite.  This hotel complex has bright, airy rooms which were recently renovated and facilities for children
  • Hotel Font d’Argent (Pas de la Casa) – recognised as the leading hotel in Pas de la Casa, the hotel is known for its local cuisine and  spa facilities.
  • Hotel Catalunya Ski (Pas de la Casa) – this is hotel is centrally located for skiers looking for a short journey to the slopes and to the bars and nightlife of Pas.
  • Hotel Camellot (Pas de la Casa) – comprising two restaurants (a buffet with show cooking and a mountain specialities restaurant), plus a steam room, sauna and hot tub, this hotel is ideal for those looking to relax after a long day on the slopes.

Arinsal

A firm favourite for beginners and intermediates thanks to lots of sunny days and well-prepared runs to build confidence.

As well as a lively après-ski scene, it offers a wide range of activities in resort such as tobogganing, dog sledding and snowmobiling, making it great for families too.

Inghams’ Hotel picks:

  • Hotel Montané (Arinsal) – opposite the resort’s main gondola, this hotel is known for its customer service and friendly staff.
  • Hotel Palarine (Arinsal) – a popular hotel run by British couple Graham and Maria, located in a pretty village 5 minutes’ ride by the free ski shuttle bus to Arinsal and the main gondola.
  • Hotel Xalet Besoli (Arinsal) – situated in a quiet street with a shuttle bus stop at the end of the road, this hotel is ideal for families.

Arinsal, Andorra. Image © PlanetSKI

Inghams has several deals available.

The operator has an online Covid-19 information hub Covid-19 information hub and an extensive In Safe Hands policy to protect customers should the virus scupper their holiday plans.

Check out more PlanetSKI articles on Andorra:

MAIN PHOTO:  Andorra © Inghams

© PlanetSKI