Learning to 'let it go' on the slopes in Andorra as I learn to ski for the first time
![Learning to 'let it go' on the slopes in Andorra as I learn to ski for the first time Learning to 'let it go' on the slopes in Andorra as I learn to ski for the first time](/cms_media/module_img/7533/3766591_2_articlesmall_Grandvalira_Grau_20Roig_Freeride_8.jpg)
I’m in Andorra for a skiing holiday, and it’s my first time on the slopes.
![Paul McCarthy at the Soldeu ski resort in the Pyrenees Paul McCarthy at the Soldeu ski resort in the Pyrenees](https://www.irishexaminer.com/cms_media/module_img/7533/3766576_2_articleinline_ski1.jpg)
![Grandvalira ski resort in the Pyrenees Grandvalira ski resort in the Pyrenees](https://www.irishexaminer.com/cms_media/module_img/7533/3766579_2_articleinline_Grandvalira_20El_20Tarter_2_1_.jpg)
![Helmets and gloves at Soldeu ski resort in the Pyrenees Helmets and gloves at Soldeu ski resort in the Pyrenees](https://www.irishexaminer.com/cms_media/module_img/7533/3766582_2_articleinline_ski4.jpg)
![The outside of the Gran Casino in Andorra la Vella The outside of the Gran Casino in Andorra la Vella](https://www.irishexaminer.com/cms_media/module_img/7533/3766585_2_articleinline_ski7.jpg)
![Soldeu is a family-friendly resort, but offers plenty of options for apres-ski Soldeu is a family-friendly resort, but offers plenty of options for apres-ski](https://www.irishexaminer.com/cms_media/module_img/7533/3766588_2_articleinline_Grandvalira_Soldeu_20El_20Tarter_Adults_1_1_.jpg)
- Topflight (topflight.ie) offer ski holidays in Andorra. Return flights from Dublin to either Toulouse or Barcelona, with transfers to accommodation at all the resorts in the principality.
- A week’s stay at the 5-star Hotel Park Piolets & Spa in Soldeu costs from €1,184pps travelling on January 7, 14, or 21, 2024,
including return flights from Dublin to Toulouse, return transfers to Soldeu, seven nights accommodation with breakfast and seven evening meals, all taxes and the services of Topflight’s Soldeu-based resort manager. - A ski room is on site, and getting to the slopes is easy with the hotel just three minutes from the gondola station. A complimentary shuttle bus takes guests there.
- Soldeu is situated in a 210km connected ski area — Grandvalira — which rivals many top European ski regions. The Grandvalira resorts ski pass gives you access to 64 lifts and 139 slopes.
- The skiing area in Soldeu transforms into a golf course in the summer. The 9-hole par 33 course, at 2,250m is the highest in the Pyrenees.
- Hotel Park Piolets & Spa has three restaurants, with a fourth planned. Dinner in Buffet by Andrea Tunbarello offers a wide range — try the intriguingly named English Soup for dessert.
- Cuisine in the Michelin-star Sol i Neu in Soldeu is overseen by chef Francis Paniego and focuses on traditional cuisine with a contemporary edge. Ask for recommendations from the staff.
- Up on the slopes, the Wine & Meat Bar by Jean Leon is a classy way to enjoy lunch after an energetic morning on the piste. The restaurant can be accessed from the gondola.
- A number of venues liven up the evenings in Soldeu. The Harp boasts live music every night, while Fat Alberts really gets going into the small hours.
- In Pas de la Casa, La Terrasse Lucien beside the ski lifts has an extensive menu,,with the outdoor dining area ideal on a sunny afternoon.
- Gran Casino Andorra in Andorra la Vella has four restaurants to suit all pockets. The tasting menu, accompanied by an excellent Rioja is outstanding.