Andorra Ski Resorts Reopen Nearly All Pistes After Strong Winds

Strong winds have prompted the reopening of nearly all pistes at Andorra's ski resorts ahead of the Carnival weekend, with Grandvalira now offering over 200 kilometres of skiable terrain, Pal Arinsal providing its full 63 kilometres, and Ordino Arcalís operating at 100% capacity with snow depths up to 320 centimetres.

Earlier on Thursday, an orange weather alert for severe gusts at higher altitudes forced closures of upper slopes and most lifts across Grandvalira, Ordino Arcalís, and Pal Arinsal. Only lower elevations remained open to avoid weather-related accidents. Grandvalira had 80 of its 215 kilometres available, including 57 pistes, with just the Tarter-Soldeu link and its reverse operational. The Encamp sector, Peretol area, and Funicamp were closed, and most inter-sector connections halted, prompting a bus service to aid movement. Ordino Arcalís offered 7 of 27 pistes at low levels with some drag lifts running, while Pal Arinsal had 14 of 47 pistes and 14 of 25 facilities active, with the Arinsal sector partially operational but links closed.

Resort operators, including Grandvalira, monitored wind conditions closely, basing any reopenings on improvements in the weather. By Friday, easing winds allowed full or near-full operations to resume, with snow depths nearing three metres across sites.

The resorts now gear up for a busy Carnival weekend featuring events such as a costume contest, the traditional torchlit descent at Ordino Arcalís, the Red Bull Night Rider in El Tarter sector, après-ski activities, and new music sessions at L’Abarset. Skiers are advised to check resort websites for the latest updates.