If you’re familiar with Arcalis I’m sure you’ll agree it’s some of the most incredible skiing you can experience, in fact it’s one of the many reasons I fell in love with Andorra when I first skied there in 2005. Over the last couple of years there have been numerous changes to Arcalis so here’s the latest news to bring you up-to-date, in the form of a Q&A.
Which ski area does Arcalis belong to?
Arcalis is it’s own ski resort, actually called Ordino-Arcalis, and has 30km of slopes. Ordino-Arcalis is owned by Grandvalira, so you will see branding saying “Ordino-Arcalis by Grandvalira Resorts”.
Is Arcalis still included in a Vallnord lift pass?
A Vallnord lift pass covering Arinsal, Pal and Arcalis doesn’t exist anymore – there is no longer a short-duration lift pass that covers these three areas. At Andorra Resorts we have come up with an exclusive solution so that customers staying in Arinsal or La Massana can still enjoy time in Ordino-Arcalis. Our brand new ‘Ski the North‘ passes allow you four days in Pal-Arinsal and two days in Ordino-Arcalis, if you’d like to find out more about the pass just get in touch.
Which lift pass do I need for Arcalis?
From winter 2019-20 you have two options for skiing in Arcalis if you’re visiting on holiday. First up is an Ordino-Arcalis lift pass – if you get one of these for at least four days, then you get one day included to ski in Grandvalira. Alternatively if you book a Grandvalira lift pass you get access to Ordino-Arcalis included at no extra cost.
If you’re skiing in Andorra for the full season, then you can still get a lift pass which includes Pal-Arinsal and Ordino-Arcalis, but this is only for a full season pass.
How can I get to Arcalis?
Ordino-Arcalis operate a fleet of 20 minivans to provide a free shuttle service to and from Arcalis, collecting you from your hotel and dropping you home at the end of the day – they’ll pick you up from anywhere in Andorra no matter where you’re staying. It’s a great service, but you need to book in advance at least a day before. You can only book this once you’ve arrived in Andorra.
Is it worth the trip?
Absolutely! Arcalis is higher and quieter than anywhere else in Andorra so the quality of the snow is better. The slopes are superb too, plus there are freeride areas for experts as well as if you’re looking for an introduction to off-piste skiing. It’s not just the skiing though, the drive up is absolutely stunning as you head up into the national park.