Ski Resort Guide: Soldeu - Grandvalira

Six settlements make up Grandvalira: Encamp, a decent-sized Andorran town close to the capital Andorra la Vella, which is connected to the Grandvalira lifts via a 6km cable-car link; Canillo, an old, charming village (and once-private ski area) that became part of the Soldeu-El Tarter system in 2003 ; Grau Roig, which is little more than an activity centre built high on the slopes; and the three main resorts of Pas de la Casa (a purpose-built resort on the border with France) and the naturally linked towns of Soldeu and El Tarter. Pas (as most call it) is widely hailed as an ugly collection of modern buildings built primarily for those looking to pop over the border and indulge in some duty-free shopping. It is also the undisputed party capital of Andorra, catering for the younger crowd who want to hit the bars as hard as they hit the slopes. If you're looking for a picturesque town with plenty of activity at night then Soldeu is the place to head. Its neighbour El Tarter is a slightly quieter, more family-friendly version, but with good links to Soldeu.