Vallnord Andorra Ski Resort – Pal & Ordino

Vallnord is one of the main ski resorts in Andorra and a popular choice for visitors who prefer quieter slopes and a relaxed mountain atmosphere. It is made up of two main areas: Pal Arinsal and Ordino Arcalís. Together they offer a mix of groomed pistes, freeride zones, and family facilities. With around 90 km of ski slopes, modern lifts, and easy access from nearby villages, Vallnord is a good option for beginners, families, and experienced skiers.

What makes Vallnord stand out is the contrast between its two sectors. Pal Arinsal is close to La Massana and is ideal for learning, family skiing, and social après-ski. Ordino Arcalís is higher, snowier, and more natural, attracting freeride riders and advanced skiers who are looking for steeper terrain and off-piste lines. Both areas are connected to Andorra la Vella by road and ski bus services.

This guide covers maps and location, how to get there, ski passes, prices, weather, areas to stay, things to do, and practical tips. It will help you plan a smooth and enjoyable visit to Vallnord, whether you come for a short weekend or a longer ski holiday.

Map and Location

Below you can explore the main sectors of Vallnord, including Pal, Arinsal, La Massana, Ordino, and the Ordino Arcalís ski area. In this map you can see the village centers, ski lifts and cable cars, parking areas, and restaurants. It helps you understand how Pal Arinsal and Ordino Arcalís are arranged, where the main entrances are, and how to move between the villages and the slopes.

For a full detailed piste map, including slope difficulty, snowparks, and lift routes, you can use the official Vallnord Pal Arinsal and Ordino Arcalís maps on the resort’s website. These maps are very useful when choosing where to stay, planning your ski day, or checking which lifts are open.

View Pal Arinsal MapView Ordino Arcalís Map

How to Get There

Vallnord is easy to reach from both Spain and France, even though Andorra does not have its own airport. The resort is well connected by road, and most visitors travel first to nearby cities and then continue their journey by car or bus. Below are the main options for reaching Vallnord and its sectors.

• From Barcelona: Around 3 hours by car to La Massana or Ordino. Several direct bus companies travel daily to Andorra la Vella, with connections to Vallnord.
• From Toulouse: About 3 hours by car. There are daily buses to Andorra la Vella, where you can change to local buses or hotel transfers.
• From Girona Airport: Around 3 hours by car. Some seasonal bus routes operate during winter.
• By Car: Roads are normally clear, but winter tyres or chains may be required during snowfall or on colder days.
• By Bus: International buses arrive at Andorra la Vella, and from there local buses or private transfers take you to Pal Arinsal or Ordino Arcalís.

What to Do at Vallnord

Vallnord offers a wide variety of winter activities, making it a complete ski destination for different types of visitors:

• Skiing & Snowboarding (Around 90 km of Pistes): The resort has a mix of green, blue, red, and black slopes. Pal Arinsal is ideal for beginners and intermediates, while Ordino Arcalís offers more challenging runs and freeride terrain.
• Freestyle & Snowparks: Vallnord has snowpark areas mainly in the Pal Arinsal sector, where riders can practice jumps, rails, and basic tricks in a controlled environment.
• Snowshoeing Trails: Marked snowshoe routes around both sectors let you enjoy quiet forest paths and mountain views away from the busiest pistes.
• Panoramic Viewpoints: Several high points in Pal Arinsal and Ordino Arcalís give wide views over the Pyrenees, perfect for photos or a short break from skiing.
• Mountain Restaurants & Cafés: You can stop at slope-side restaurants and cafés for Andorran dishes, hot drinks, and simple snacks during the day.
• Village Experiences: After skiing, you can explore La Massana, Arinsal, Ordino, or Andorra la Vella, visit shops, or relax in spas and wellness centers.

If you want to explore more ski areas in Andorra, you can also check out the nearby Grandvalira ski resort, which is larger and offers even more kilometres of pistes and sectors to discover.

Best Time to Visit Vallnord

The ski season in Vallnord usually lasts from early December to early April, but the ideal time to visit depends on what you want:

• December – Early January: Festive atmosphere and Christmas holidays. It can be busy, and prices are higher, but the resort feels very lively.
• January – February: Often the best snow quality and colder temperatures. This period is ideal for experienced skiers and freeride fans, especially in Ordino Arcalís.
• March: Longer days, more sunshine, and more comfortable temperatures. This is a great time for families and beginners.
• April (early): Snow can be softer, but slopes are quieter. Conditions depend on the winter snowfall, and some lower runs may close earlier.

Practical Information

• Ski Pass Options: You can choose between day passes, multi-day passes, and season passes. There are also discounts for children and families.
• Opening Hours: Slopes usually open from around 09:00 to 17:00, depending on daylight and weather conditions.
• Equipment Rental: Many shops in La Massana, Arinsal, Ordino, and near the lift stations rent skis, snowboards, boots, helmets, and sometimes clothing.
• Food & Services: Restaurants, cafés, ski schools, lockers, and rental shops are available in the main access areas and on the mountain.
• Weather Conditions: Mountain weather can change quickly, so always check the forecast before skiing and bring warm, layered clothing.
• Local Transport: Bus services and hotel transfers connect Andorra la Vella, La Massana, Arinsal, and Ordino with Vallnord’s lift entrances.

If you need more details, updated prices, or special offers, you can visit the official Vallnord Pal Arinsal and Ordino Arcalís websites.

Official Pal Arinsal Website Official Ordino Arcalís Website

FAQ About Vallnord

When does the Vallnord ski season usually start and end?

The season typically begins in early December and ends in early April, depending on snowfall and weather conditions.

Is Vallnord good for beginners?

Yes. Vallnord, especially the Pal Arinsal sector, has wide blue slopes, gentle beginner areas, and good ski schools.

Which area is best to stay in?

• La Massana: Best for quick access to Pal Arinsal and good services.
• Arinsal: Quiet village with a ski-focused atmosphere, ideal for families and groups.
• Ordino: Charming and peaceful, perfect if you plan to ski mainly in Ordino Arcalís.
• Andorra la Vella: Best for shopping and spas, with daily transport to Vallnord.

Do people speak English in Vallnord and Andorra?

Yes, English is widely spoken in Vallnord, especially in hotels, restaurants, ski schools, and rental shops. The main languages in Andorra are Catalan, Spanish, and French, but most tourists have no problem communicating in the ski areas.

Do I need snow chains for my car?

Not always, but snow chains or winter tyres are strongly recommended during heavy snowfall. Road conditions can change quickly in the mountains.

Can I enjoy Vallnord without skiing?

Yes. You can enjoy snowshoe walks, viewpoints, cafés, spas, village walks, and shopping in La Massana, Ordino, or Andorra la Vella.

Are there children’s areas?

Yes. Vallnord has kids’ zones, beginner slopes, and family-friendly learning areas, especially in Pal Arinsal.

How much does a ski pass cost?

Prices change every winter, but to give you an idea: a 1-day adult ski pass in Vallnord (Pal Arinsal or Ordino Arcalís) usually costs around €50–€55, while children pay about €40–€45 and teens slightly less. A 6-day adult pass is normally in the range of €230–€260, with reduced prices for children and juniors. Beginner and pedestrian passes are cheaper, and there are also discounts for children, families, and when you buy passes online in advance.

How much does accommodation cost during peak season?

Standard double rooms usually cost from around €100 to €220 per night, depending on location and comfort level. Prices are higher during Christmas, New Year, and school holidays.

Is Vallnord good for advanced skiers?

Yes. Ordino Arcalís is especially popular with advanced skiers and freeriders, thanks to its steeper slopes, off-piste terrain, and reliable snow.

Is Vallnord open in summer?

Yes, in summer Vallnord becomes a mountain destination with hiking, mountain biking (especially in Pal Arinsal), zip-line activities, and nature walks. Selected lifts open to support these activities.