If you speak to anyone that has spent much time in Andorra, they’ll all tell you one thing, Arcalis is a must-visit. Hidden away in the parish of Ordino, this hidden gem has truly got something for everyone to enjoy. From the Mega Verde, an 8km green run, to some of the most challenging freeride areas.
Getting there
With the majority of people who visit the Vallnord side of Andorra staying in Arinsal. The easiest way to get to Arcalis is to use the free bus service which runs twice a day (Monday to Saturday). Running from the bottom of the gondola in Arinsal at 08:30 and 10:30. The bus returns from Arcalis at 15:30 and 17:30. In previous years, trying to cram onto the first-come, first-serve bus on a Thursday to Saturday has been difficult but this year they have now doubled the buses running on these days making it much easier to do so. The journey will take you approx. 40 minutes.
Mega Verde – 8km green run
On arrival
When you get to Arcalis you’ll see there is no resort there, which means uncrowded pistes for you to enjoy. If you are a beginner then you’ll want to head to the Mega Verde, an 8km green run than meanders down the mountain. Along the way down you’ll find some picture moments with a hidden ice cave and the giant metal ‘O’ of Ordino sculpture. For advanced beginners and intermediates there are plenty of nice wide blue and red runs, and then for the more adventurous there a two separate freeride areas and plenty of off-piste.
Great snow and empty pistes
Amazing off-piste opportunities
Thrill-seekers
If the amazing opportunities both on and off-piste aren’t enough for you then you could try something completely different and take both skis off the snow completely by speed riding. A mixture of skiing and paragliding this experience is not for the faint-hearted.
Competitions
Such is the quality of Arcalis, it’s now attracting major competitions to be held there including the Freeride world tour and the recent Font Blanca ISMF World Cup.
Winner’s podium
To go and see what the fuss is all about, visit here to buy your Ordino-Arcalis or full Vallnord pass today.