Arcalis in Andorra Resort Guide

'Arcalis' main ski area centres around two valleys which form a U-shape. The main valley, the Cercle d'Arcalis is a big bowl shaped area with trees lining one side and which acommodates most of the lifts. The central ridge offers two good north facing steeper, longer runs. Otherwise there are a fair variety of longer blue and red runs which link in to the second valley, the Cercle de la Coma. The snow cover is usually very good and said to be among the best in the Pyrenees and is a good bet late and early season. Terrain available for all abilities but intermediates will probably find most to do. Overall there are plenty of long flattering blues and reds which are kept smooth and well groomed and will keep most intermediates entertained. Otherwise the beginners slopes are generally near the base station. The longest lift is the Les Portelles 3 seater chair which starts at middle station level and reaches the crest just below Arcalis summit at 2776m. There is a long blue off the back of this main ridge, and a short black which meets up with the longer red which crosses under the chair at half way. 4 chairs in total and 8 drags gives a capacity of about 13,500 skiers per hour. A good level of snowmaking is now available.

The attractive base station houses two large resaturants, snack bar, two bars, kindergarten and creche facility. There is afree 150 baby drag lift for up to 6 year olds. A shuttle bus also connects to the middle station where base station activities such as ski and board hire, ski school booking, and lift pass sales are also duplicated.

Arcalis hosts a round of the Freeride World Tour every year and is a favourite amongst competitors. There is some amazing off piste that can be accessed using a local guide

Accomodation & Après Ski

Arcalis has no village at the resort base station, with the nearest acommodation at El Serrat (7kms away) and Ordino (15kms away), so it is very much a day-trippers and weekender's resort.

Web Cams

Resort Statistics

RESORT HEIGHT	1940	VERTICAL DESCENT	660	OPENS	November-April
TOP STATION	2620	DRAG LIFTS	13	EXPERT RATING	8
BOTTOM STATION	1940	CHAIR LIFTS	11	INTERMEDIATE RATING	7
		GONDOLAS/CABLE CARS	2	BEGINNER RATING	8