Arcalis - Vallnord

Arcalis Ski Resort

Arcalis is home to 30km of surprisingly varied slopes, ranging from a top to bottom green to some of the Pyrenees’ finest freeride terrain.

For such a small area of slopes, Arcalis really packs a punch. The long, cruisey greens and blues are well-suited for beginners, intermediates will enjoy the longer reds, whilst advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders have access to some fantastic freeride terrain – including the face used during the annual Freeride World Tour event. Note that there is no accommodation on the hill, so you’ll need to stay down in the valley or visit from the linked Vallnord resorts of Pal/Arinsal (note, however, that a short duration Vallnord lift pass covering Arinsal, Pal and Arcalis doesn't exist anymore. In order to obtain such a pass you will have to purchase a season pass or a 'Ski the North' pass which allows you four days in Pal-Arinsal and two days in Ordino-Arcalis).

Our Arcalis Resort Ratings

• Beginner ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
• Intermediate ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
• Advanced ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
• Snow Reliability ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
• Fast Lifts ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
• Resort Activities ★ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
• Après ★ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
• Value ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Arcalis Skiing and Snowboarding

There is a good beginner zone located as Les Planelles, just above the base and a great summit to base green run – the Megaverda – which covers 8.5km. La Font and Les Canales are two nice, tree-lined blue runs and there is a good selection of intermediate cruising off Les Portelles.

For advanced and expert skiers, the ski area is arguably the best in Andorra. It is no surprise that the Freeride World Tour drops by each winter. Three marked freeride zones are found on the piste map, but with a short hike or skitour, a vast array of options quickly opens up – and owing to the altitude and northerly orientation, snow conditions are usually very good.

• Total Pistes: 30km (93km including Pal/Arinsal)
• Green: 25%
• Blue: 18%
• Red: 47%
• Black: 10%
• Lifts: 15 (38 including Pal/Arinsal)
• Altitude: 1940m – 2625m

Arcalis Piste Map

The local area map can be downloaded here.

Arcalis Resort

There is only a daylodge on the hill, meaning you’ll have to stay elsewhere. Having a car really helps here, as the bus service linking the resort to the valley is unfortunately quite infrequent. We’d recommend basing yourself at the resort of Pal/Arinsal as not only is it covered on the same lift pass (if you purchase a season pass or a 'Ski the North' pass), but you can also take advantage of the 63km of linked slopes there.

Alternatively, accommodation is available in the town of Ordino, or also along the valley between the town and the ski area – but again if you do this having your own car would make a massive difference.

Season Dates

16th November 2019 - 3rd May 2020

How to get to Arcalis

Toulouse airport to the north and Barcelona airport to the south are the nearest to Andorra, both of which lie around three hours away. Hiring a car is the best option.

• Barcelona airport: 3 hours
• Toulouse airport: 3 hours
• Calais: approximately 13 hours driving (700 miles)

Arcalis Contact Details

• Website: www.vallnord.com
• Email: vallnord@vallnord.com
• Telephone: +376 878 000
• Facebook: @vallnord
• Instagram: @vallnord
• Twitter: @Vallnord