A school ski trip is an excellent opportunity for young people not only to rise to a highly rewarding physical challenge, but also to explore a new corner of the globe – which is one reason that Andorra, a small country located between Spain and France, is an excellent destination for such a trip. Here, students will be introduced to a new culture while enjoying all the fun of winter sports. There are several excellent resorts in Andorra, including the beautiful Grandvalira, the largest resort to be found in the Pyrenees. It is of especial interest to school groups, thanks to its high-tech and ecologically minded design, as well as its enjoyable ambience and, of course, great slopes. Read on to learn more about this first-class winter destination.
The Area
School ski trip groups who visit Granvalira will find themselves surrounded by spectacular mountain vistas and welcoming Andorran culture. A large ski area incorporating several resorts, including Pas de la Casa, Soldeu, Arcalis, Arinsal and Pal, it is also full of picturesque villages that visitors can explore in order to gain an appreciation of the country’s history, attractive architecture, pristine landscapes, and easygoing atmosphere. It is also a great place for language learners, as French and Spanish are widely spoken in addition to the official national language of Catalan.
The Slopes
Granvalira is an especially rewarding school ski trip destination for groups including beginner and intermediate skiers, thanks to its many excellent nursery slopes and variety of green and blue runs, which allow students to learn the basics before progressing to more developed courses that will test their new skills or help them to advance from one level to the next. With over 210 kilometres of piste available, there are plenty of routes to keep even the fastest of learners occupied – while the integrated lift network will allow the more advanced to venture further afield and take on new challenges.
Other Activities
Developing their skills may be the main focus for students on a school ski trip, but it is an activity that needs to be complemented by others – including alternative physical exercises to help wind down the muscles, and entertainment to help relax both body and mind before returning to the slopes. As well as skiing, visitors to Granvalira can enjoy plenty of other wintry activities, including snowshoeing and ice skating. There is even the option to take a tour of the surrounding countryside via dog-pulled sled. When it comes to evening entertainment, meanwhile, school groups are spoiled for choice with the range of activities offered in all of the area’s resorts, such as bowling, swimming in thermal baths, or joining other young visitors for a disco.