Pal-Arinsal Resort Overview
Located in the heart of the Pyrenees, Pal-Arinsal is a ski resort that is often overlooked yet brimming with charm. The resort, sitting at an elevation of 1,550m, with the highest ski lift reaching 2,560m, is part of the larger Vallnord ski area in Andorra.
The resort has a delightful blend of traditional and modern appeal, boasting a range of accommodation options from cosy, family-run guesthouses to contemporary, luxury hotels, all offering the convenience of ski-in-ski-out access. The ski season in Pal-Arinsal usually runs from early December to late April.
Skiing in Pal-Arinsal
Pal-Arinsal is a haven for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The resort offers two lift pass options; the Vallnord ski pass which covers the Pal-Arinsal and Ordino-Arcalis ski areas and the Ski Andorra pass which covers all Andorran ski resorts.
Skiers and snowboarders can revel in the 63km of pisted terrain that Pal-Arinsal has to offer, with a great mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs. The resort is particularly attractive for beginners with a good selection of gentle slopes and wide, confidence-boosting runs such as El Besurt and El Planell.
Intermediate and advanced skiers will find plenty of challenging runs, such as La Comellada and El Port Negre. The resort is also known for its excellent snowpark, where freestyle enthusiasts can test their skills on an array of jumps, rails, and boxes.
Is Pal-Arinsal Family-friendly?
Pal-Arinsal is an ideal ski resort for families. The pedestrian-friendly village, combined with a range of ski-in-ski-out accommodation, makes it a hassle-free option for those with children. The resort also offers discounted lift pass rates for children under 12 years of age.
Après-Ski Scene in Pal-Arinsal
The après-ski scene in Pal-Arinsal might not rival the famous resorts of the Alps, but it certainly has its own unique charm. The resort has a handful of lively bars where you can unwind after a day on the slopes.
The Surf Arinsal is a popular choice, offering live music and a great selection of drinks. For a quieter evening, the Wine Bar at the Hotel Princesa Parc offers a cosy setting to enjoy a selection of local and international wines.
Dining in Pal-Arinsal
Pal-Arinsal offers a variety of dining options, from traditional Andorran cuisine to international favourites. In the village, Borda Raubert gives visitors a taste of local fare with dishes such as escudella, a hearty Andorran stew.
For a gourmet experience, head to Restaurant 360 at the Hotel Diana Parc, where you can enjoy a meal with panoramic views of the resort. On the mountain, Refugi de Comapedrosa is a great lunch spot with a sun-soaked terrace and mouth-watering menu.
How to Get to Pal-Arinsal
The most convenient way to reach Pal-Arinsal from the UK is by air. The closest airports are Barcelona El Prat (202km), Toulouse-Blagnac (196km) and Girona-Costa Brava (229km). From these airports, you can transfer to Pal-Arinsal by bus or hire a car for the scenic drive through the Pyrenees.
Pal-Arinsal Insider Tips
- Don’t miss out on a trip to the local Caldea Spa, Europe’s largest thermal spa, located in nearby Andorra La Vella.
- Take advantage of the free shuttle bus that connects Pal and Arinsal, giving you easy access to both ski areas.
- Try ice diving in the nearby Tristaina Lakes. A unique experience for adventure-seekers!
- Enjoy a night-time snowmobile ride, a thrilling way to see the mountain after dark.