Tucked high in the Pyrenees between France and Spain and part of the vast Grandvalira area, Soldeu and El Tarter lay on the lot for skiers and boarders in Andorra. We’re talking modern lifts and excellent teaching terrain, all without a hefty price tag. And with handy Jet2.com ski flights to Barcelona Airport, plus the option to add 22kg hold baggage and ski carriage*, we bet we’ve peaked your interest. 

The resorts 

Soldeu and El Tarter sit side-by-side along the main Andorran valley, connected by lifts and pistes. Soldeu is slightly larger, with a lively, cosmopolitan buzz. Its pedestrian core is lined with rental shops, tapas bars and stylish hotels. El Tarter is quieter — ideal for families and those seeking ski-in, ski-out convenience. The local ski bus is free with your lift pass and connects Soldeu, El Tarter and Canillo. Non-skier? Take your pick of the spas and enjoy the pools, saunas and mountain views. You could also try dog-sledding or snowmobiling.  

The slopes 

Part of the vast Grandvalira area, Soldeu and El Tarter give you access to more than 200km of pistes, shared with neighbouring resorts like Pas de la Casa and Grau Roig. If it’s your first time skiing, the Canillo and Soldeu zones are among the best in Europe. Gentle nursery slopes sit right by the gondola and there’s plenty of English-speaking ski schools. Once you’re comfortable, make your way down Gall de Bosc, a long blue that meanders from Soldeu to El Tarter with panoramic valley views. More of an intermediate? Hop on the Tosa Espiolets lift and spend the day exploring wide, sun-soaked pistes like Esparver or Llop. You could also tackle the full Soldeu-El Tarter circuit, linking both resorts in one big figure-eight day. Freestyle fans will be in their element in the El Tarter Snowpark. There are beginner and intermediate lines with small kickers and easy boxes, as well as an advanced section with rails and a halfpipe. So, whether you’re sending your first 180 or perfecting a rail slide, there’s something for everyone.  

The après 

There are après activities to suit all tastes and budgets around these parts. Start at L’Abarset in El Tarter, the area’s iconic après hub, where DJs spin the decks from mid-afternoon and everyone dances in their ski boots until sunset. Later, head to Fat Albert’s or The Villager in Soldeu for live music and craft beers. Taxis between Soldeu and El Tarter are quick and cheap — or you could jump on the free night bus when it runs during peak season. Restaurants also double as social hubs. Try Arrosseria Pi de Migdia, perched mid-mountain or La Cabaneta in El Tarter, where you can feast on rich Catalan stews and grilled meats. For something a bit fancy, Glassbar 1,850 at the Hermitage Hotel mixes creative cocktails with Michelin-level service. 

*Charges apply.