Grandvalira Resorts Hits Record 336K Ski Days in Andorra's Best Christmas in 6 Years

Grandvalira Resorts recorded more than 336,000 ski days across its domains from December 24 to January 6, marking Andorra's strongest Christmas period in six years and edging out last season's totals—the best since 2019-2020.

The resorts confirmed the figures in a statement, exceeding initial projections of over 330,000 days. December 29 set a single-day record with 34,523 visitors since the 2022-2023 unification under Grandvalira Resorts: 25,412 at Grandvalira, 6,088 at Pal Arinsal, and 3,023 at Ordino Arcalís, whose peak came a day earlier on December 28 with 3,348 visitors.

Exceptional early snowfalls, continued precipitation, and rigorous piste grooming drove the success. Grandvalira averaged over 190 km of open slopes with depths up to 80 cm, while Ordino Arcalís and Pal Arinsal operated at full capacity, reaching 135 cm and 100 cm respectively—conditions not seen in years.

David Ledesma, Grandvalira's marketing director, described the results as highly positive, with attendance matching last season but snow quality standing out as extraordinary for the period. The holidays represent about 15% of annual revenue. January and February bookings continue robustly, aided by forecasts of further snow to keep operations at full strength. "Advance reservations are on track and point to strong weeks ahead, assuming conditions hold," Ledesma said.

Events drew big crowds, such as torchlight descents in Soldeu, Pas de la Casa, and newly in Pal Arinsal, plus the Three Kings parade in Pas de la Casa. Restaurants, ski schools, and après-ski venues ran at capacity without significant disruptions. Abarset in El Tarter hosted over 25,000 visitors, with highlights including Bresh, Brunch Electronik, a New Year's après-ski party, and a charity event raising more than €3,000 for social inclusion via Fundació Nostra Senyora de Meritxell.

Hotels averaged above 80% occupancy into late December, climbing to 85% from December 24-28—a 9-point rise from last year—according to Albert Mora of the Andorran Hoteliers' Union. Early January hit 94.5% for December 29-January 4, up over 5 points year-on-year, with weekends nearing 97%. Entry/Exit System rules constrained temporary hires for receptionists, cooks, and servers, leaving around 400-500 vacancies despite solid demand. Tourist accommodations averaged 85-97% in Andorra la Vella, El Tarter, Bordes d'Envalira, and Pas de la Casa, some at 100%. Àlex Ruiz of the Tourist Accommodations Association attributed steady uptake from December 26 to non-refundable bookings, which cushioned French farmer protests near Pas de la Casa. Overall 2025 occupancy rose 5-8 points versus 2024.

By contrast, Naturland saw 7,660 visitors from December 20 to January 5 over 17 days—one more operating day than last season but fewer guests overall. Unstable weather, with early rain and wind, hampered turnout until snow from December 29 improved pistes to some of the best in years. Average spending per visitor climbed 4.3%, softening the dip. Naturland deemed the period satisfactory, praising adaptability.