ANDORRA
IT may be Europe’s sixth smallest nation with a population you could fit inside Wembley Stadium, but Andorra, thanks to a vast investment programme in recent years, is fast becoming one of the UK’s most popular winter sports destinations, with Brits making up a high proportion of the country’s 10.2m annual visitors.
High in the east Pyrenees between France and Spain, Andorra la Vella is the highest capital city in Europe and home to a thriving ski community. Hotels and restaurants are all reasonably priced and situated delicately amongst an intriguing cultural blend of Roman buildings and stone streets of the old town, and the modern architecture of the commercial district.
On the outskirts of Andorra la Vella is the ski resort of Vallnord. With more than 70 slopes linking several picturesque ski towns, it’s the jewel in Andorra’s crown. From black runs to children’s snow clubs, and unlimited access to three freestyle and freeride areas, Vallnord has all skiing and winter sports bases covered. And with a wide variety of smart restaurants and excellent bars and nightclubs, you’ll never go wanting off-piste.
A few kilometres down the road is the resort of Grandvalira. With more than 193 km of runs, this has the largest ski area in southern Europe. When you’re not on the slopes here, the three magnificent ice bars at the foot of Pla de les Pedres are a must-try.
Perhaps the beauty of Andorra is the longevity of snow. While its rivals across Europe are hoisting up their ski lifts in March, skiers and boarders are still at it here in May. And if you need a break from the slopes, look no further than Caldea, Europe’s largest mountain spa resort. Spread over two levels in the unique setting of Escaldes-Engordany, this is where peace and tranquillity reign amid a paradise of thermal waters and spa treatments.
Where to stay: spectacularly-designed Andorra Park Hotel sits in Andorra la Vella’s smartest district. Rooms from €105 per night; www.epoquehotels.com.