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El Tarter Ski Holidays
Located in the heart of Andorra’s Grandvalira Ski Area and closely linked to its sister resort Soldeu, El Tarter is ideal for novice skiers and snowboarders as well as mixed ability groups and families.
There’s a vast 210km skiable area full of crisp, fresh powder to explore in this Pyrenees snowsports haven, with a wonderful network of blue and red runs for intermediate skiers and riders, a few challenging black pistes for experts and freestyle areas that snowboarders and fun-loving skiers can’t get enough of. Snowpark El Tarter is the largest in Andorra, at 1.3km in length, and there are lots of dedicated kids circuits and a fun piste (the Bababoom Circus) that will help your young ones embrace the joy of snowsports in a safe environment. The official ski school here is English-speaking, very reputable and caters for kids aged three and upwards.
The ski season in El Tarter runs from December through to April, with optimal conditions in February and March. Snow retention is terrific in this high-altitude resort set at 1710m above sea level, but there’s also an armoury of snow cannons available to top up natural cover if necessary.
Accommodation in El Tarter is excellent value for money, with a good choice of comfortable and conveniently located apartments and hotels. El Tarter is a little quieter than some neighbouring Grandvalira ski resorts, but there’s still an ambient apres-ski scene with a few busy bars, not to mention quality cafes and restaurants serving a range of cuisine.
An aesthetically pleasing ski village comprising a clutch of rustic stone buildings gathered around the main road, the hospitality in El Tarter is warm and welcoming and there’s an awesome laid-back ambience. Off the slopes, you can sample cathartic pools and spas, or treat yourself to a massage or beauty session, while alternative off-slope activities include snowshoeing and snowmobiling.
When you want to experience a winter wonderland without paying extortionate prices, El Tarter ticks every box and no one’s better placed than Erna Low to help you create the perfect customised ski break in this phenomenal Andorra ski resort!
Brilliant tree-line skiing and direct links to Grandvalira make El Tarter a smart pick. Its also less busy with good facilities and reliable winter conditions.
Rebecca Dodson, Sales Manager
Mountain facts
At around 1,700m, El Tarter gives skiers direct access to some of the higher terrain in this part of Andorra. The local slopes rise to just over 2,500m, which helps maintain good snow conditions throughout the season. Much of the skiing above El Tarter is north-facing, meaning the snow stays colder and in better shape, particularly on the upper runs and through the main bowl areas.
The immediate terrain around the resort offers a balanced mix of wide beginner slopes, flowing blues and more challenging reds, making it well-suited to skiers who like to progress without travelling far. The nursery areas are positioned close to the village, while longer, more open pistes are situated higher up the mountain, offering scenic descents back towards resort level. Tree-lined sections lower down offer shelter on poor-weather days, while higher alpine slopes give expansive views and a more open feel in good conditions.
Snow conditions in El Tarter
El Tarter benefits from generally reliable snow conditions thanks to its altitude and favourable mountain position. With a resort height at 1700m and much of the local skiing reaching above 2,500m, the snow stays consistent through most the season. Many of the slopes above El Tarter are north-facing, which protects the snow from direct sun and keeps conditions fresher for longer, particularly on the upper runs. The ski area also has extensive snow-making facilities to supplement any shortages that may occur in the later months.
Skiing in El Tarter
Skiing in El Tarter offers a varied and well-balanced experience, making it a popular choice for mixed-ability groups. Sitting at around 1,700 metres, the resort offers quick access to high-altitude terrain and a diverse range of slopes that cater to all skill levels.
- El Tarter is ideal for beginners and families with young children. The gondola from the resort easily connects newbie skiers with the learning areas at the top of the lift station. There's a gentle green with a low gradient that's perfect for absolute beginners. You’ll also find a good selection of well-groomed easy blues, excellent for progression, as well as long blues like the Esquirol, which are perfect for confident beginners, offering a long, scenic cruise back down to the resort.
- El Tarter really comes into its own for intermediate skiers. The local area features flowing runs ideal for cruising. Intermediates can take their pick from the rolling reds down from the Llosada lift or any of the blues towards Canillo. The long, tree-lined Gall de Bosc is always a guaranteed, 7km highlight.
- Advanced skiers aren’t left out here. The famous, FIS-approved Àliga black is a steep thriller that has featured in previous World and European cup races. The resort also features several red and black courses, offering a proper challenge for seasoned veterans. Some of the runs from El Tarter drop into the scenic Incles Valley or Grau Roig, both holding (mostly) untouched and unmarked powder stashes. We always recommend hiring a guide when exploring these areas.
Snowboarding in El Tarter
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Snowboarding is one of El Tarter's big draws. Its terrain suits all boarders from first-time riders to experienced freestyle and freeride snowboarders. The layout is snowboard-friendly, with only a few flat sections and smooth lift connections that maintain momentum.
- Snowpark El Tarter is one of the Pyrenees' most popular snow parks. Stretching 1.3km with the longest module line in the area, it has zones for all levels, including mellow kickers and boxes for progressing, big jumps and rails that draw the pros. It hosts international events such as the Total Fight Masters of Freestyle, so you'll often see top riders sessioning.
- Beyond the park, snowboarders will enjoy the resort’s wide blue and red runs, which are ideal for carving and cruising. The slopes above El Tarter are generally open and rolling, allowing riders to link smooth turns without constant stopping. North-facing upper sections tend to keep the snow in good condition, while lower tree-lined runs offer shelter on windy or cloudy days.
Accommodation in El Tarter
There’s a good choice of accommodation in El Tarter, making it easy to find something that suits your style and budget. Erna Low offers flexible ski holiday packages featuring comfortable self-catering apartments and well-located hotels. Many properties are situated close to the main gondola or offer near ski-in, ski-out access, providing you with quick and convenient access to the slopes and village amenities throughout your stay.
All accommodation in El Tarter
What's available at El Tarter ski resort?
Après-ski in El Tarter
El Tarter has a lively but easy-going après-ski scene that appeals to skiers who enjoy sociable evenings without the intensity of a full-on party resort. Much of the action centres around the base of the slopes, where bars and cafés start to fill up as the lifts close. Popular spots offer terrace seating, music and a relaxed atmosphere that’s ideal for a post-ski drink.
- L’Abarset, one of the resort's main haunts, is right at the base of the gondola. It's one of the resort's mainstays, where the action kicks off around 4 pm with live DJs, international acts on weekends, and a lively terrace where everyone dances in ski boots.
- Visit Dylan’s for something lower-key. It's a modern bar with cocktails, pub grub and a merry crowd. Evenings stay pretty mellow in the resort, perfect if you want early nights so you can catch the fresh tracks in the morning.
Facilities in El Tarter
El Tarter is a well-equipped village resort, with everything you need within easy reach. The ski shops, restaurants and other amenities are mostly centrally located, making mornings straightforward. The resort also has a good selection of cafes and a convenience store in the resort centre. While it doesn’t have large indoor entertainment centres, its compact layout and sociable atmosphere make it easy to relax after skiing. Regular buses and taxis also connect El Tarter to Soldeu and the more expansive valley, giving access to additional shopping and leisure facilities.
Facilities for children in El Tarter
El Tarter is a family-friendly resort with facilities that make skiing with children straightforward and enjoyable. The resort's beginner areas are easily accessible from the resort, allowing families a straightforward connection to the nursery slopes. The ski schools all have experienced, multi-lingual instructors offering lessons explicitly designed to build confidence and keep things fun for the kids.
In resort, families will find cafés and restaurants featuring child-friendly menus. El Tarter’s compact layout means everything is within a short walk, which is ideal when visiting with young children. For additional activities, the nearby resorts of Soldeu and Canillo offer extra leisure options, which can be easily reached by bus or taxi.
Why choose Erna Low for El Tarter skiing holidays?
Incredible value holidays: We’ll beat any competitor’s price, giving you the best value for money.
Huge choice of accommodation: Choose from bargain breaks, 5-star premium deals and so much more.
Customisable travel: We specialise in fully customisable ski holidays; offering a wide range of options to suit all tastes and budgets.
Fully protected bookings: We’re ABTOT and ATOL members and abide by their Code of Conduct.
5-star Trustpilot reviews: We pride ourselves on the service we provide, which is why out of 10 of our clients would recommend us.
El Tarter is perfect if you want quieter slopes but still want access to Grandvalira. The resort comes with a relaxed atmosphere, great facilities and good snow
Jane Bolton, Product Director
