With the cold weather having arrived, it’s the time of year for planning fun activities and things to do in Andorra in winter. Situated in the Pyrenees mountain range, Andorra is the ultimate winter wonderland and visitors to the principality’s ski resorts are always on the lookout for interesting ways to pass a crisp winter’s day.
On a snowy season trip to Andorra, things to do in winter can include outdoor activities in the snow or indoor attractions such as ice skating, museums and shopping. Here, we outline 10 specific examples of what to do in Andorra in winter, so you’ll be ready to have some fun after reading through this list.
Ten things to do in Andorra in winter
Andorra’s winters are famously cold and snowy, with significant snowfall between November and March. For anyone visiting Andorra in these months, there is a lot of fun to be had and that includes these 10 activities:
Skiing and snowboarding
Logically, skiing and snowboarding are among the main things to do in Andorra in winter. The principality is renowned around the world for its quality ski resorts and perfectly smooth ski slopes, with Grandvalira the largest of all the skiing stations in the Pyrenees.
Snowmobile excursions
There are various snowmobile routes in this part of the world, making this another popular winter activity in Andorra. It can be an exhilarating way to explore the forests.
Snowshoeing tours
In recent years, more and more snowshoeing tours have sprung up and this is a great way for families to explore the region at a slower pace. Snowshoeing is one of the best things to do in Pas de la Casa at this time of year, with various routes there for different levels of expertise.
Bathing in a natural spa
Most of the Andorra things to do in winter involve the cold, but it is actually possible to stay warm too by visiting one of the region’s natural hot springs.
Dog sledding
One of the favourite winter activities in Andorra, especially for families, is dog sledding. At this time of year, this is an exciting way to discover the snowy valleys and forests.
Cosy drinks in Soldeu
If looking for things to do in Soldeu, experiencing the nightlife after a busy day is high on any list. With so many cosy pubs packed into such a small space, Soldeu has a real charm to it.
Visiting Andorra’s museums
There are some days when the winter weather is too harsh and that’s when it can be difficult to come up with new things to do in Andorra in winter. But, with more than 20 museums, Andorra has the second-highest concentration of museums per square metre of any country in the world.
Shopping in Andorra la Vella
If visiting Andorra at Christmas time, shopping might be high on the agenda. The main street of Andorra la Vella is famous for its bargains, plus the Christmas lights add an extra special touch at this time of year.
The Christmas Village
Another Christmas treat in Andorra la Vella is the famous Christmas Village, which brings artisan products, live music and culinary delights to the capital’s streets and squares.
Ice skating
It is possible to ice skate at the Palau de Gel d’Andorra all year round, but this is an especially popular place to visit in the winter. With an Olympic ice rink of 1800m², this venue has space for ice skating in all its forms.
It’s clear to see that there are many things to do in Andorra in the winter months. No matter which part of the principality you’re staying in, there is fun to be had from sunrise to sunset and beyond, with no shortage of things to do in Soldeu or Pas de la Casa or whichever part of Andorra your accommodation is located.
What to do in Andorra in December
December brings about the start of the Andorra skiing season, so the main thing to do in Andorra in December is to take to the slopes. For ski enthusiasts who have been waiting all spring, summer and autumn for the chance to return to their favourite ski resorts, the opening of the Andorran ski resorts in the first week of December is marked on the calendar well in advance. Of course, there are other December activities in Andorra too, such as the pre-Christmas activities mentioned in the above list.
Does it snow in Andorra in December?
December may not be the month with the most snowfall in Andorra, with 14cm average snowfall, but there is still more than enough snow to go skiing in the month of December. Furthermore, the snow is fresh, which many skiers prefer.
Andorra in January
When it comes to January, the Andorran ski slopes come even more alive as January into February is widely considered to be the best time to go skiing in the principality. This is one of the busiest months of the year in the microstate, as tourists flock to ski resorts such as Grandvalira, making for a truly special atmosphere.
Is the snow good in Andorra in January?
January is the month of the year with the greatest snowfall in Andorra, with 46cm average snowfall and four snowfall days. While the slopes are also very well kept and ideal for skiing in December, it’s true that there is a greater guarantee of heavy snowfall in January.
Photo: Comú Andorra la Vella