Grandvalira Loses 1,000 Skiers Daily from French Road Closure

Grandvalira is losing around 1,000 skiers per day due to the closure of France's RN-20 road, which has disrupted access to Pas de la Casa from the French side.

David Hidalgo, director of the organising committee for the Women's World Cup hosted at El Tarter, highlighted the impact during an interview on Ràdio Nacional d'Andorra's *Avui serà un bon dia* programme. He described the drop in French visitors as a significant portion of the market, potentially totalling 70,000 to 75,000 skiers by the end of the season. Against Grandvalira's overall expected total of 1.8 million visitors, Hidalgo noted that "it's not that much, but we don't like it."

The RN-20 remains blocked by an avalanche between Merens and Ax-les-Thermes, forcing drivers onto lengthy detours of three to four extra hours. This has primarily affected short-stay customers, such as those arriving for a weekend or day trip, who find the alternative route uneconomical.

Despite the challenges, Hidalgo reported positive surprises in February's visitor numbers, which held up better than anticipated amid the mobility restrictions. Grandvalira's skiable domain continues to draw crowds, though the loss of French traffic has hit casual outings hardest.

The situation remains fluid as efforts continue to reopen the road.