After having spent a very hot summer, it is time to prepare what will undoubtedly be an unforgettable vacation. Where? On Grandvalira, where you can practice the winter sport: skiing. But not only will you be able to have fun while exercising your legs and arms with your snowboard, but you will also have the opportunity to see the beautiful snowy landscape of this corner of Andorra.
So, so that you don't forget anything, let me help you draw up the list of things you will need to end the year in the best possible way: with the special memory of your days in Grandvalira kept in your mind.
What is and where is Grandvalira?
It is a ski resort created in 2003 that is located in the Pyrenees, within the Principality of Andorra. It is the largest ski area in the Pyrenees, since it has about 210km of slopes, which go from the center of the country to the east, reaching the border with France. It can be accessed by six different paths, following the course of the Valira de Oriente river, which are: the Pas de la Casa, Grau Roig, Soldeu, The Tarter, Canillo and Encamp.
The minimum height is 1710 meters, and the maximum is 2560m. It also has 1027 artificial snow cannons, which occupy an area of 136km. Thus, you can enjoy the snow without having to worry about anything, since many services are offered so that the visitor can spend some wonderful days, with family or friends. Services like coffee shop, restaurant, first aid, fast food restaurant, creche, ski / snow school, parking, and of course toilets.
What activities are practiced in winter?
During the winter months, there are many and varied activities that take place in the middle of this beautiful snowy landscape. There are so many, that even those who do not like skiing or who prefer to do other things, they can have a great time.
For example, you can practice mushing, which is a sled pulled by dogs, take a ride with a snowmobile, cross-country skiing or night skiing, boardercross, travel the adventure circuit, learn to ski in the area for beginners with the help of a teacher,… In short, with so much to do, you won't even have time to think about boredom 😉.
What do I need to go to Grandvalira?
What cannot be missing in your travel suitcase is the following:
- Identification document: to get to Grandvalira you must travel to Andorra, and this is a country that does not require a visa for any nationality. What is very important is that you carry a valid identity card or passport and the family book.
- Thermal outerwear: in winter, and more at high altitudes, the temperature, both minimum and maximum, is very low, so much so that it can easily reach -10ºC. Thus, to avoid colds, you should wear thermal clothing that is also comfortable, such as the one you will find in sportswear stores.
- Photo camera: When you go on a trip, the camera is an indispensable object to capture the best moments. Make sure you take the charger with you so you always have it ready.
- Mobile Phone: although we know that you do not leave it at home, it is important that you always have it with a full battery and that you take it with you, because not only will it help you to be in contact with your loved ones, but it will also be very useful in case of need.
- Sunscreen: the sun, even if it is not very intense, can damage the skin. For this reason, it is recommended to carry a bottle of cream to put on your face and hands.
- Sunglasses: the eyes of the star king must also be protected.
- I really want to have fun: ok, ok, it's logical. But it is one of the most important things, if not the most, since it will largely depend on whether your days at the ski resort are incredible.
Where to rent material?
If you do not have, or do not want to have to waste time checking in, you can rent material from skiing in Grandvalira. You can have your boots, and your skis or snowboard just by going to one of the many shops in the ski resort; even in the hotels they also process this service to their clients, and last but not least they offer discounts in the stores closest to the accommodation.
The prices are:
- Skis: from 16 euros (those of the Bronze category), 21 euros (Silver) and 27 euros (Gold).
- Snowboard for children up to 12 years: 18 euros.
- Ski boots: from 9,50 euros (Silver) to 11 euros (Gold).
- Boots for children up to 12 years: 6 euros.
- Adult helmet: 5 euros.
- Child helmet: 3 euros.
- Rackets: 10 euros.
By the way, you should know that if you make a group made up of more than 30 people, you will have special discounts.
So nothing, if you want to spend a few days in one of the best known Ski Resorts in the world, go to Grandvalira. You will not regret it 😉.