La Massana - Introduction
The area offers skiing for all, and Arcalis, known as the best ski area in Andorra is also known as the Vallnord ski area and is covered on one great lift pass. There is a small local area above Arinsal’s gondola which is a narrow, east facing bowl of open slopes. Arinsal and Pal both have gentle nursery slopes to encourage beginners, and long easy runs to progress to. Intermediates will enjoy both Arinsal and Pal, however the more confident intermediate will want to explore Pal where the runs are a lot more interesting and varied. There are short, sharp slopes at Arinsal for the advanced skier and some great off piste skiing in both Arinsal and Pal. The town can get quite lively when the sun sets and its compact centre ensures that guests can get between the restaurants and bars quite easily.
Skiing
For intermediates both Arinsal and Pal offer great red and blue runs. Some great steep and mogul runs at Pic alt de la Capa for those more advanced skiers. The Vallnord ski area offers 35 beginner slopes, 27 intermediate, and 6 advanced for the more experinced skier and boarder, with a total of 44 lifts.
Snowboarding
Pal and Arinsal are ideal for beginner snowboarders and Pal offers some great powder runs and groomed pistes for the more experienced boarder.
Ski Schools
La Massana is quite an appealing town, it is now linked to the Pal - Arinsal and Arcalis ski areas by gondola. Also a regular bus service connects to Arinsal 3kms away.VALLNORD is the leading mountain park in the Pyrenees for all age groups. In the Arcalís, Arinsal and Pal sectors you can enjoy the best ski, snowboard, freeride and freestyle runs.
Eating Out
There are a few restaurants serving traditional Catalan food, and with the other resorts of Arinsal and Pal not too far away there is plenty of choice. Alternatively head to La Vella, Andorra’s capital where you will find dozens of great restaurants.
Bars and clubs
The bars are relaxed and informal and you will find that drinks are very reasonably priced!
Off the slopes
It is easy to get down to the local town of Andorra La Vella where everything is tax free. There are a few bars and clubs. Make sure you visit Caldea, the spa complex; it is a great experience not to be missed.