Skiing and snowboarding in Encamp feels expansive, especially for a Pyrenean resort. The Funicamp gondola delivers you straight onto the mountain at Cortals d'Encamp, where wide, sun-drenched slopes open up across the Grandvalira domain. The terrain flows naturally between sectors - you can ski over to Soldeu for lunch, explore the snow-sure heights above Grau Roig, or take on the livelier runs around Pas de la Casa, all on a single lift pass.

The character varies across the ski area. Runs directly above Encamp tend to be wide and forgiving, perfect for building confidence. If you head towards Soldeu, you'll find more variety in the terrain, with steeper pitches and better tree-lined runs for poor visibility days. The Pas de la Casa sector offers the highest slopes and some of the most reliable snow, though it can feel busier at weekends. Throughout, the lift system is modern and efficient, with most key connections served by fast chairs or gondolas.

Skiing for beginners in Encamp

Encamp provides an encouraging environment for first-time skiers. The beginner area at Cortals d'Encamp sits at the top of the Funicamp gondola, so new skiers can start their day on the mountain rather than struggling through a busy village. Nursery slopes here are gentle and well-groomed, with magic carpet lifts making those first runs feel manageable. Once you've found your feet, a network of wide green runs lets you explore further without finding yourself on terrain that's too challenging.

The progression routes are well thought out. Confident beginners can link green and easy blue runs across to the Riba Escorxada area, gradually extending their range while staying within comfortable terrain. Slopes tend to be quiet on weekday mornings, giving learners space to practise without feeling rushed by faster traffic.

WeSki insider tip: The Funicamp gondola runs from a car park at the edge of Encamp. Arrive early and you'll beat the crowds to fresh corduroy on the beginner slopes above.

Intermediate skiing in Encamp

Intermediate skiers will find Grandvalira genuinely rewarding. The ski area's size means you can ski for days without repeating runs, with long blue and red cruisers connecting the different sectors. Runs from Pic de Cubil down towards Soldeu are particularly satisfying, with sustained descents that have enough pitch to maintain speed, and good snow quality thanks to the altitude. The Portella sector offers some excellent reds that feel properly engaging without being intimidating.

For intermediates looking to push their limits, there's plenty of scope to venture onto easier black runs. The terrain naturally encourages progression, with many reds featuring short steeper sections that build confidence for more challenging terrain. The Grau Roig area rewards exploration, with varied runs and fewer crowds than the main Soldeu-El Tarter axis.

WeSki insider tip: Take the circuit over to Grau Roig for lunch. The runs here are excellent, the mountain restaurants less hectic, and you'll discover some of the best intermediate terrain in the whole domain.

Advanced and expert skiing in Encamp

Advanced skiers won't mistake Grandvalira for the steep terrain of the French Alps, but there's more here than first impressions suggest. Black runs around Pas de la Casa deliver genuine challenge, with sustained pitches and natural mogul fields that form throughout the day. The Avet run - used for World Cup competitions - demonstrates that the resort can produce properly demanding pistes when the terrain allows.

For those willing to explore, the off-piste potential quietly delivers. The bowl beneath the Pic del Cubil holds good snow and offers a variety of lines, while the areas around Grau Roig provide accessible backcountry terrain when conditions allow. A local guide opens up further possibilities - the Pyrenean snowpack can be complex, and local knowledge makes a real difference. Freeride zones are clearly marked but ungroomed, offering a taste of natural terrain without venturing fully off-piste.

WeSki insider tip: After fresh snowfall, head straight to the Grau Roig sector. It sees less traffic than Soldeu and the north-facing slopes hold powder longer into the morning.

Snowboarding in Encamp

Grandvalira has invested heavily in freestyle facilities, making it a strong choice for snowboarders. The El Tarter snow park features jumps, rails, and features for different ability levels, regularly updated throughout the season.

The wide, open terrain suits carving and the lift system is almost entirely drag-free on the main routes, meaning no awkward unstrapping. Freeriders will appreciate the natural hits and rollers scattered across the mountain, particularly in the Grau Roig and Pas de la Casa sectors.

Off-piste skiing in Encamp

Grandvalira offers legitimate off-piste terrain. The designated freeride zones provide a structured introduction to natural snow, while those with experience can find genuinely interesting lines with a guide. Bowls above Grau Roig and the terrain accessible from the highest lifts at Pas de la Casa reward exploration when conditions align. The Pyrenean snowpack requires respect - it behaves differently from Alpine snow - so local guiding is recommended for anything beyond the marked freeride areas.

Encamp ski school and lessons

Ski schools operate throughout the Grandvalira domain, with English-speaking instruction readily available. The main schools offer group and private lessons for all ages and abilities, from first-timers to those refining their technique. Children's programmes cater to different age groups with dedicated areas and patient instructors.

Through WeSki, you can add ski or snowboard lessons to your package and have everything arranged before you arrive. Check out Encamp ski deals to get started.

Encamp terrain parks

The main terrain park at El Tarter ranks among the best in the Pyrenees. Multiple lines cater to different abilities, from small kickers and beginner rails to larger features for experienced riders. A dedicated park crew keeps things fresh with regular reshaping and new features throughout the season, and a boardercross course adds variety, with a chill zone for watching the action unfold.

Encamp piste map

1. Encamp family ski holiday
2. Things to do in Encamp
3. Planning your trip in Encamp
4. How to get to Encamp
5. Encamp FAQs

Encamp family ski holiday

Encamp works well as a family base, combining mountain access with the practical conveniences of a real town. The Funicamp gondola eliminates the morning scramble - you drive to the base station, park easily, and ride straight up to the slopes. This arrangement means younger children stay fresh for their lessons rather than arriving already tired from navigating crowded streets. Beginner areas at Cortals d'Encamp are separated from faster traffic, and the ski schools offer structured children's programmes with patient, multilingual instructors.

For teenagers, Grandvalira delivers the perfect amount of variety. The terrain park at El Tarter provides a focus beyond just skiing laps, while the sheer size of the ski area means they can explore independently without quickly running out of new terrain. A short hop to Andorra la Vella adds another dimension, where shopping, bowling, and an impressive spa complex at Caldea offer alternatives on rest days for the whole family.

While children are in ski school, parents can take full advantage of the interconnected slopes, whether that's coffee in Soldeu, lunch at Grau Roig, or afternoon runs above Pas de la Casa. The meeting points are straightforward, and the gondola schedule allows flexibility for end-of-day reunions. Evening dining in Encamp suits families well, with restaurants serving generous portions at reasonable prices in an unpretentious atmosphere.

Things to do in Encamp

Encamp's position in the valley gives you genuine flexibility for rest days, or for the non-skiers in your group. The town itself offers a quiet base, but Andorra la Vella sits just ten minutes away with shopping, spas, and cultural attractions. Whether you want to recover tired legs in thermal waters, explore Romanesque churches, or simply enjoy a change of scenery, the options extend well beyond the typical ski resort experience.

Snow activities

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, the Grandvalira area offers a range of winter experiences that make full use of the mountain setting:

• Snowshoeing: Guided treks through quiet alpine terrain above the ski area.
• Mushing: Dog sledding experiences through snowy forests and open meadows.
• Night skiing: Floodlit runs on select evenings at Pas de la Casa.
• Snake gliss: Group toboggan descents on linked sleds - fun for families and groups.
• Ice diving: Unique experience diving beneath frozen mountain lakes with qualified guides.
• Helicopter flights: Scenic tours over the Pyrenean peaks and Grandvalira ski area.
• Winter hiking: Cleared paths around Encamp and accessible high-altitude trails.

Non-snow activities

Rest days in Encamp open up Andorra's wider attractions. The compact size means nothing is far away, and the duty-free shopping adds practical appeal to any excursion:

• Caldea Spa: Europe's largest mountain spa complex, with thermal lagoons, saunas, and treatments.
• Duty-free shopping: Electronics, perfumes, alcohol, and fashion at tax-free prices in Andorra la Vella.
• Romanesque Route: Medieval churches and chapels scattered throughout the valley, including Sant Joan de Caselles.
• Casa Cristo Museum: Traditional Andorran house in Encamp showing rural mountain life through the centuries.
• National Automobile Museum: Impressive collection of vintage vehicles housed in Encamp.
• Meritxell Sanctuary: Andorra's national shrine, blending contemporary architecture with religious heritage.
• Mountain restaurants: Non-skiers can ride the gondola up for lunch with panoramic views.

Encamp restaurants

Dining in Encamp reflects the town's authentic character, and you'll find straightforward mountain cooking served without pretension. The restaurants cater primarily to locals as well as visitors, which keeps standards honest. You'll find hearty Catalan and Andorran dishes alongside international options, with portions sized for skiers returning hungry from the slopes.

• El Raco d'en Pere: Traditional Andorran restaurant with wood-grilled meats and local specialities.
• La Mosquera: Cosy spot known for mountain cuisine and welcoming atmosphere.
• Restaurant Piolet: Reliable choice for pizzas, grilled dishes, and Catalan classics.
• Uep Bar: Casual dining with tapas and light meals in a friendly setting.
• Restaurant Casamanya: Local favourite serving generous portions of traditional dishes.
• Pi del Migdia: On-mountain restaurant at Cortals with valley views and hearty lunches.
• Gall de Bosc: Slope-side dining in the Grandvalira domain with solid mountain fare.

WeSki insider tip: Try escudella - Andorra's traditional meat and vegetable stew - on a cold day. The trinxat, a potato and cabbage dish served with crispy bacon, makes an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats.

Encamp après-ski

This isn't a resort that parties until dawn. Encamp's après-ski scene is relaxed, and you'll find a handful of friendly bars where skiers gather for a drink before dinner. The atmosphere suits visitors looking for a calm end to the day, rather than those seeking high-energy après scenes.

For livelier evenings, the short drive to Pas de la Casa opens up more options. This border town has a more pronounced nightlife scene, with bars and clubs that keep going into the small hours. Soldeu offers a middle ground, with some slope-side drinks spots and a modest selection of evening venues. Most visitors staying in Encamp, though, appreciate the quieter pace as part of its appeal.

Après-ski spots to know:

• Uep Bar: Central meeting point with good beer selection and relaxed vibe.
• Bar Cort: Local favourite for post-ski drinks in an unpretentious setting.
• Abarset (Pas de la Casa): Legendary après venue with DJ sets and terrace parties when weather allows.
• Aspen Bar (Soldeu): Slope-side spot that catches the last of the sun with drinks on the terrace.
• Fat Albert's (Soldeu): Friendly British-run bar with live music and pub atmosphere.
• Pub Paddy's (Pas de la Casa): Irish pub keeping things lively into the evening hours.

Encamp map

Planning your trip to Encamp

Encamp accommodation

Accommodation in Encamp leans towards practical comfort rather than luxury. You'll find a selection of three and four-star hotels, apartments, and self-catering options that represent good value. The town centre is compact and walkable, with restaurants and shops within easy reach of most properties.

A key consideration is proximity to the Funicamp base station. Staying nearby makes morning departures straightforward, though the town is small enough that nowhere feels particularly far.

Encamp ski pass

The Grandvalira ski pass covers all six interconnected sectors - Encamp, Canillo, El Tarter, Soldeu, Grau Roig, and Pas de la Casa - giving access to over 210 kilometres of marked runs. The pass includes the Funicamp gondola from Encamp into the ski area.

Check for family and multi-day pass options when booking your Encamp ski holiday package through WeSki to find the best fit for your trip.

Equipment hire

Equipment shops operate both in Encamp town and at the top of the Funicamp gondola in the Grandvalira ski area. Most shops carry a full range of ski and snowboard equipment, from standard packages to higher-performance gear, along with helmets, goggles, and accessories.

Renting on the mountain can be convenient, though booking ahead - particularly during peak weeks - ensures availability and often secures better rates.

WeSki partners with SkiSet shops in Encamp, letting you add equipment to your package and collect on arrival. Browse Encamp ski deals to build your perfect trip.

Getting around Encamp

Encamp is compact enough that most visitors get around on foot. The walk from the town centre to the Funicamp base station takes around ten minutes, though many drive and park at the gondola - the car park is spacious and convenient. A local bus service connects Encamp with other towns along the valley, including Andorra la Vella, running at regular intervals throughout the day.

Taxis are available for evening trips or when convenience matters. Within the Grandvalira ski area, the lift system connects all sectors effectively, making mountain transport straightforward once you're on the slopes.

How to get to Encamp

The nearest airports to Encamp are Toulouse (around 185 kilometres) and Barcelona (around 200 kilometres), with both offering good flight connections from the UK. The drive through the Pyrenees is scenic and manageable, following well-maintained roads that are regularly cleared in winter. For those who prefer to leave the driving to others, transfers run direct to Encamp from both airports.

WeSki offers car rentals from the airport as well as private and scheduled transfers to Encamp. Add them to your Encamp ski holiday package for seamless door-to-door travel.

Encamp FAQs

Is Encamp good for beginners?

Encamp works well for beginners. The nursery slopes at Cortals d'Encamp are gentle and well-serviced, with magic carpets making first runs comfortable. From there, a good selection of green and easy blue runs allows progression without sudden jumps in difficulty. The ski schools offer English-speaking instruction, and the generally quiet slopes give learners space to practise. The only consideration is that the beginner area sits at altitude - which helps snow quality but can feel tiring until you acclimatise.

How does Encamp compare to Soldeu?

Both access the same Grandvalira ski area, so the skiing is identical. The difference lies in the base experience. Soldeu is a purpose-built resort with ski-in/ski-out convenience, more slope-side après-ski options, and a busier international atmosphere. Encamp offers lower accommodation costs, a more authentic Andorran village feel, and a quieter evening scene. The Funicamp gondola ride adds a few minutes to your morning, but parking is easier and you're closer to Andorra la Vella's shopping and attractions.

Is Encamp good for families?

Encamp suits families looking for value and convenience without sacrificing ski quality. The Funicamp gondola arrangement means easy parking and a smooth journey up to the slopes, avoiding the crowded walkways of busier resort centres. Children's ski school programmes are well-established, and the proximity to Andorra la Vella provides non-skiing options like the Caldea spa and duty-free shopping. Restaurants are family-friendly with good prices, and the town's quiet evening atmosphere works well for early bedtimes.

Is the snow reliable in Encamp?

Grandvalira's altitude - reaching 2,640 metres at the highest point - helps ensure reasonable snow reliability for a Pyrenean resort. The season typically runs from early December to mid-April, with the best conditions usually found between January and March. The resort invests in snowmaking to cover key runs, and the north-facing slopes in the Grau Roig sector tend to hold snow well. That said, the Pyrenees receive less snowfall than the Alps on average, so checking conditions before booking is sensible, particularly for early or late season trips.

How long is the transfer from Barcelona or Toulouse?

The drive from Barcelona takes around three hours in normal conditions, following the motorway north before climbing into the Pyrenees. From Toulouse, expect a similar journey time via the mountain passes. Both routes are scenic and well-maintained, with regular winter clearing. Transfers and car rental options are available through WeSki - check your Encamp ski package options when booking to find the most convenient arrangement for your group.

Is Encamp expensive compared to French ski resorts?

Encamp generally offers better value than equivalent French Alpine resorts. Accommodation, dining, and drinks tend to cost less, and Andorra's duty-free status means shopping for equipment, alcohol, or other items comes with noticeable savings. Ski passes are competitively priced for the size of the ski area. The main costs are similar to other destinations - flights, transfers, and ski hire - but day-to-day spending in the resort typically feels gentler on the wallet.

Explore other resorts in Andorra

Pas de la Casa - Canillo - Arinsal - Soldeu - El Tarter