A recent article in Planet Ski has thrown the spotlight firmly on the charms of the Pyrenees, with a special focus on Andorra. Described as “under the radar” this independent principality on the Iberian Peninsula could well become your new favourite ski destination. If you’re looking to invest in a mountain home this could be the perfect place, and with a reputation for having a welcoming community, peaceful vibe and of course those extraordinary views, you may well consider Andorra as a more permanent base.
Focus on Grandvalira
Grandvalira was born in 2003. Two of the oldest resort areas in the Pyrenees, Pas de la Casa/Grau Roig/Encamp and Soldeu/El Tarter/Canillo joined forces to become the largest ski resort in the Pyrenees, and one of the largest in Europe.
Grandvalira Ski Facts
- 210 km of ski run over 128 slopes
- Highest lift 2,640m
- Good mix of runs including 22 black runs
- 62 lifts that transport 100,000 skiers per hour
- Home to the only night time ski park in the Pyrenees
Areas that make up Grandvalira
Grandvalira is made up of several parishes, each with their own unique character, and draw for the visitor,
- Pas de la Casa - known for having a good range of slopes, as well as superb shopping and lively night life
- El Tarter and Grau Roig - home of the famous Peretol snow park and favoured by freestylers
- Canillo - a family resort with great facilities and the much loved Magic Park complete with 700m toboggan and pony rides
- Soldeu - home to blissful wide runs and the Avet Slope
Recent investment in Grandvalira infrastructure
Grandvalira has benefited from around €1 billion investment, and the most recent has seen money used to facilitate the creation of one of the largest skiing domains in the Pyrenees. Pal Arinsal has joined Grandvalira to allow for better promotion of the resort as both a place of skiing excellence and a year round destination. Other investments include the development of the Peretol snow park, part of the three snow parks in the domain and the only one to offer floodlit skiing.
This investment hasn’t gone unnoticed and Grandvalira has played host to numerous ski competitions including the Speed Skiing World Cup in Gran Roig and the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup held over various slopes including the famous Avet slope in Soldeu.
Is Grandvalira a dual season resort?
The mountains have always been here, and they’ve always been available to enjoy but the concept of Grandvalira as a dual season resort has been capitalised on in recent years. The area has an authenticity that means the importance of the majestic scenery, and the value of immersing oneself in the mountains is a way of life - and one that Andorrans are more than happy to share.
Things are still low key here - which is the root of the area’s charm. This is a landscape that is recognised by UNESCO as having international importance - and even a short adventure into the peaks will show why. There are numerous hikes to suit all levels of skill and desired exertion, such as the gentle Llac d’Elforn, or the more challenging Pic d’Encampadana.
It’s not all hiking of course - there’s ample opportunity to just relax, perhaps over a long lunch at Refugi Llac dels Pessons, a restaurant set on the edge of the lake, high up in the mountains, that’s been serving guests for over 25 years. As well as long lunches you can indulge in some duty free shopping, or spend time at Caldea Spa, the biggest thermal spa in Europe.
Why choose a property in Grandvalira?
This is an area that offers something different. There’s less self-conscious style,and a certain edge that gives this mountain space a unique character. It’s somewhere that draws people who love the mountain life, love the thrill of the slopes and love to indulge in lively, vibrant nightlife but without the price tag of the glitzier alpine resorts.. There’s a freedom and a sense of great things to come, and that makes for exciting living, exciting skiing and exciting investment.
Our properties in Grandvalira include spaces like this three bedroom, three bathroom apartment, complete with berrywood flooring, fittings from Grohe and Porcelanosa as well as wonderful mountain views and an option for parking. We also love this 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom house in Encamp - it’s beautifully appointed and has ample living space, making it a superb choice as a holiday home for families or groups. It’s near to the centre of town too, and Andorra’s investment in their fibre optic network means this could be a great base for longer stays - after all spending an hour or two on the slopes before getting down to work brings a whole new meaning to work-life balance.
As well as village houses, Andorra has some magnificent country residences, such as this stunning borda in Vall d’Incles. Comprising two double bedrooms, one with private terrace, as well as a self contained apartment, this beautiful home is impeccably styled and finished to the highest specification. The borda sits on a 3006m² plot, and has stables and outbuildings which offer the potential for further development.
We have a great choice of property in Grandvalira, and other Andorran resorts. To be kept in the loop about upcoming opportunities, just sign up to our property alert system. It’s completely customisable, so you only see the type of property you’re interested in, and is a great way to make sure you don’t miss out on your next great mountain investment.
May 22, 2023
