This Andorran ski resort at 2,100m elevation has 31 slopes and duty-free shopping. The highest town in Europe draws winter sports fans from December through April.
Pas de la Casa sits at 2,080 meters in Andorra's Encamp parish, making it the highest ski resort in the Pyrenees. You can ski down 100 kilometers of slopes, from the gentle Abelettes area to the steep drops of Costa Rodona. The village streets have duty-free electronics shops like Media Markt and fashion boutiques such as Mango, while bars like Underground and Billboard keep going until late. Local restaurants serve French-influenced dishes, and you'll spot British tourists filling the traditional pubs as the Pic d'Envalira mountains rise above the modern apartment blocks.
Getting to Pas de la Casa
You can reach the resort in three hours from Barcelona or Toulouse airports. Buses depart twice daily from both cities' terminals. If you're driving from Calais, plan for a 13-hour journey covering approximately 700 miles.
Skiing and Snowboarding Terrain
The 31 lifts connect to 100 kilometers of slopes across two main sectors: Pas de la Casa and Grau Roig. Take the gondola from the village center to find the Abelettes area, with its wide slopes for beginners and dedicated learning zone. Advanced skiers head to the black runs at Costa Rodona and Antenes, accessed by their respective chairlifts.
Snow Conditions and Season
The 2,080-meter altitude maintains consistent snow from December through April. The 1,000 snow cannons cover 65% of the ski area, maintaining skiable conditions even during dry spells. Winter temperatures typically stay below freezing, while summer days reach around 10°C.
Shopping and Duty-Free
Walk down the main street to find duty-free shops selling electronics, designer clothing, and winter sports equipment. The tax-free status reduces prices on alcohol, tobacco, and perfumes compared to France and Spain. During peak season, most shops stay open after the slopes close, letting you combine skiing with evening shopping.
Nightlife and Entertainment
The bars and clubs start filling up after 4 PM when the lifts close. Underground club plays electronic music, while Billboard hosts live bands. The British-style pubs run early evening happy hours. You'll find a swimming pool at the leisure center near the bottom of town. On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights until 8 PM, you can ski under floodlights on selected slopes.
Accommodation and Services
Stay at hotels like Cal Ruiz with its spa facilities, or Font D'Argent next to the main gondola. The Paradis Blanc apartments give you self-catering options five minutes from the slopes. Visit the tourist office by the French border on weekdays between 9 AM and 7 PM to get maps, lift passes, and local activity schedules.
