Soldeu is a renowned ski resort located in Andorra's majestic Grandvalira ski area. Combining the charm of an authentic village with luxury accommodations, it boasts wide, high-altitude slopes perfect for enthusiasts seeking both scenic views and thrilling descents.
As one of the most renowned Andorra ski resorts, Soldeu offers a blend of charm and adventure. Here's a practical guide we've put together just for you, filled with insider tips and essential info to help you plan the perfect Soldeu ski holiday. You'll discover everything you need to know, from its location to its ski areas, snow history, and the best spots to grab a bite or relax after skiing. At the end, we've also included the resort map, plus some handy contact numbers and links.
Soldeu is located in the Pyrenees mountains of northeastern Andorra, in the parish of Canillo.
Nearest airport
Toulouse-Blagnac (174 km)
Transfer time
Toulouse-Blagnac (2hr 31 min)
Soldeu the resort
Resort altitude: 1750 m
Resort permanent residents: 1109
The recent influx of investments has significantly enhanced Soldeu's infrastructure, reflecting in its upscale four and five-star hotels equipped with spas, soft play areas for children, and other top-tier amenities. The resort's alignment along a singular central road ensures effortless navigation, further complemented by commendable bus connectivity to neighbouring locales like El Tarter, Pas de la Casa, and Andorra's capital, Andorra la Vella. Catering to a diverse clientele, the village, pulsating with a vibrant après ski ambiance, boasts an eclectic mix of eateries, from Michelin-star chef-led restaurants to traditional mountain eateries. Its duty-free status ensures that shoppers can indulge in quality ski gear without breaking the bank. While the resort might lack traditional 'alpine charm', it compensates with contemporary facilities, including a vast ski area categorized by varying difficulty levels, snowparks, children's snow gardens, and free-ride facilities.
Pros
Cons
Excellent beginner and intermediate ski terrain
Slopes can get busy at school holiday periods
Great value for money
Resort with very little alpine feel
Fun and friendly après ski scene
Limited advanced and expert ski runs
Very good ski schools
Some accommodations can be far from the centre
Here is how Soldeu looks like
This short video provides a glimpse of everything Soldeu has to offer.
Kilometres of pistes: 92 km (210 km - Grandvalira)
Vertical drop: 810 m
Ski lifts: 30
Soldeu, part of Grandvalira ski area, offers a diverse skiing experience with 92 km of skiable terrain, set between altitudes of 1,750m and 2,560m. This area is well-equipped for all levels, featuring 63 pistes (9 greens, 25 blues, 18 reds, and 11 blacks) and serviced by 30 lifts. Soldeu's main ski sectors, include:
Beginners' area: With over 30 green and blue runs, Soldeu provides ample opportunities for beginner skiers. These areas feature designated beginner zones, and the resort’s English-speaking ski school is superb, offering first-time skiers and snowboarders a supportive and instructive environment to develop their skills.
Espiolets Plateau: This is a central hub at the top of the Soldeu gondola, where several pistes converge. It's a key area for accessing various runs and connecting to other parts of Grandvalira.
Soldeu to Pas de la Casa: Ideal for intermediate and advanced skiers, the slopes between Soldeu and Pas de la Casa offer a superb skiing experience, allowing skiers to explore all 6 different ski sectors.
El Tarter snowpark: While this is technically in the El Tarter sector, it's easily accessible from Soldeu and is a prominent feature for freestyle skiing and snowboarding. It's known for its well-maintained features like kickers, rails, and boxes.
Avet slope: A well-known black run in Soldeu, it's famous for hosting FIS Alpine Ski World Cup races.
Skiing in Soldeu
Beginners
Beginning their journey with the TC8 Soldeu gondola, novice skiers find themselves greeted by a dedicated beginner area, replete with easy-to-navigate green and blue runs, and a reputed ski school known for its well-groomed gentle slopes. As they build confidence, beginners can advance to wider blue slopes like Astoret, eventually experiencing the thrill of skiing through the trees back to the Soldeu base.
Intermediates
Soldeu offers intermediate skiers almost 190 kilometers of pistes to explore. From rolling red terrains around Riba Escorxada to the serene Rossinyol blue towards Canillo, there's ample variety. Adventurous souls can further challenge themselves by skiing down to El Tarter on an enticing red run.
Advanced
Advanced skiers have a world of challenges awaiting them in Soldeu. From the mogul-lined Llebre and Avet runs to the expansive terrains linking Soldeu with Pas or Arinsal, there's no shortage of adrenaline-pumping action. The resort also boasts a total of 10 black runs, offering a thrilling experience even for the most seasoned skiers.
Off-piste skiing
The lure of untouched powder and breathtaking vistas takes many to the Grau Roig area. Between El Tarter and Canillo, there are six lift-served, unpisted itinerary runs for those craving a raw skiing experience. Additionally, The Freeride Centre at the Grandvalira Soldeu Ski School stands as a prime option for those wishing to delve deeper into off-piste skiing.
Snowboarding
With three snow parks located in El Tarter, Grau Roig, and Peretol, riders can indulge in half-pipes, jumps, and other freestyle exploits. Notably, El Tarter’s snow park, renowned for its professional competitions, is equipped with an impressive selection of kickers, rails, and boxes, all maintained to perfection.
Soldeu ski season dates
The ski season in Soldeu for 2024/25 is expected to start on November 30th and run until April 11th. Obviously, opening and closing dates may vary slightly depending on snow conditions. If you're planning a ski holiday to Soldeu this season, be sure to explore our Soldeu ski deals for the best ski offers available.
Soldeu snow history
Soldeu offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 12 cm and 18 cm of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 2.1 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly decreases with 16 cm of snowfall but it occurs more frequently, averaging 2.6 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the fourth week of January, traditionally the snowiest week in Soldeu, with an impressive 28 cm of snow over 3.0 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days, when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 12 cm of snow over 2.1 days.
Sol i Neu: Situated on the slopes, Sol i Neu offers skiers a delightful respite with its warm interiors and hearty mountain meals.
Naudi: A favorite among skiers, Naudi's strategic location on the slopes combined with its delicious menu makes it a must-visit during ski breaks.
Resort restaurants
Fat Alberts: A vibrant eatery known for its diverse menu and lively atmosphere, perfect for those looking to mix great food with entertainment.
Dylan's: A trendy spot, Dylan's offers a mix of modern dishes and classic comfort foods, ideal for families and groups.
Aspen: Known for its upscale ambiance, Aspen provides a fusion of local and international cuisines, making it a favorite for fine dining enthusiasts.
Bruxelles: A charming European-style restaurant, Bruxelles serves an array of continental dishes in a warm, welcoming setting.
Koy Hermitage: Exuding luxury, this restaurant offers an exquisite fusion of Asian and local flavors, perfect for those seeking a unique gastronomic experience.
Kao Soldeu: An Asian-inspired restaurant, Kao Soldeu delivers a delightful culinary journey through the flavors of the East.
La Taverna de la Iaia Soldeu: A traditional establishment, it promises authentic local cuisine, with dishes that speak of Andorra's rich culinary heritage.
Things to do in Soldeu
For non-skiers, or simply for off-slope fun, Soldeu offers:
Spa and wellness
Swimming pools
Dog sledding
Paragliding
Snowshoe walking
Snowmobiling
Skidooing
Soldeu apres ski and nightlife
Below are some of the best venues for après ski and nightlife in Soldeu:
Après ski bars
Fat Albert’s Bar: A lively spot, Fat Albert's is known for its great après atmosphere, featuring live music and a vast selection of beverages to wind down after a day on the slopes.
The Aspen: An iconic après ski bar, The Aspen offers a cozy setting with wooden interiors, ideal for enjoying a warm drink and recounting the day's skiing adventures.
The Avalanche: True to its name, The Avalanche guarantees a cascade of fun with its energetic vibe, attracting skiers as soon as the slopes close.
The Roc: A modern touch in the traditional ski setting, The Roc serves signature cocktails and has an inviting ambiance, making it a favorite for evening relaxation.
The Harp: Reflecting its Irish roots, The Harp is perfect for those seeking a pint of stout, engaging conversations, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Villager: A quintessential ski bar, The Villager boasts of rustic charm and offers a wide range of drinks, making it a favorite spot to unwind after skiing.
Iceberg: Known for its chilled-out vibes, Iceberg is the place to enjoy a crisp beer or cocktail while soaking in the mountain views.
Nightclubs
Fat Albert’s Club: An extension of its bar, this club livens up as the night progresses, offering a dance floor and tunes spun by resident DJs, ensuring a memorable night in Soldeu.
Popaire & Pussycat Disco: A pulsating hub of nighttime entertainment, this club is known for its electrifying music and vibrant dance floor, making it a must-visit for those looking to party into the wee hours.
