Grandvalira Snow Conditions

Grandvalira is situated in the north of Andorra, and is the largest ski area in the southern Pyrenees. The ski area was formed in 2004 when the two major resorts of Pas de la Casa and Soldeu combined, and also incorporates the sectors of El Tarter, Grau Roig, Canillo and Encamp. Grandvalira is a snow-sure ski area thanks to the many north-facing high-altitude slopes, and, being close to the Mediterranean, receives plenty of sunshine as well as seeing pleasant temperatures, even during the winter months.

 

Grandvalira has a total of 110 runs spread over 193km of terrain, and the villages are located at a height of between 1,300m and 2,100m, with skiing taking place up to 2,640m. The ski area is a favourite for first-timers, especially Soldeu with its large beginners ski areas and wide open pistes, however with two-thirds of the slopes in Grandvalira being fast blues and reds located above the treeline, the area is ideal for intermediate skiers. Experts in Grandvalira have a wealth of off-piste terrain to explore, and in general the slopes are varied, ranging from above the treeline bowls to wide open pistes.

 

The ski season in Grandvalira runs from November to April, with the best snow seen during February and March. Upper slope averages in 2008 reached 146cm, and the climate is generally dry with a minimum annual temperature of 2C. Snowmaking is extensive in Grandvalira, with 35% of the slopes covered by 972 snow cannons.