Arinsal Andorra

Here in Arinsal we are having an absolutely fantastic season. It keeps on snowing, all the runs are in good condition. The resort is already digging out the snow cannons - something they usually do in March if they decide that there is enough snow to last the rest of the season. Doing it now is a sign that they are confident we already have enough snow to last well into April whatever the weather decides to do. Vallnord are rumoured to be considering extending the season beyond the planned closing date in late April, possibly even opening into May. All in all, if you were considering a trip to Arinsal, this is one winter you don't want to miss out on.

Following the recent snowfalls every single run in Pal and Arinsal is now open, including those few which open rarely most years. We have been able to ski from Alt de la Capa (pictured) right down to the Hotel Crest which is a vertical drop of around 1000m - the biggest vertical descent in Andorra. Off the pistes more possibilities keep opening up, and with more snow forecast things should just keep getting better.

Over the last few days we have seen more snow here than I can remember falling in one go before. It started Saturday with the biggest storm in a decade over this part of Europe, then stopped just long enough to give a bluebird powder day Sunday before starting with a vengeance Sunday night and continuing until this (Tuesday) morning.

Although today was pretty windy, the snow was perfect to ski on with fresh lines to be had all over the lower part of the mountain and Les Marades opening for the first time since mid-December. We are expecting that tomorrow should be even better.

When considering the changes the resort has seen this year - new lifts, changing bars, the best early season snow in several years - there is an important point that we have so far neglected to mention - the falling price of a pint. You may have seen Number One's recent item comparing the cost of Guiness across the town in his inimitable fashion, but it is also useful to note that the prices have dropped since last year in most establishments.

Last year a pint of ordinary lager would have set you back around four euros here in Arinsal. This year most bars are charging three, although obviously Guiness etc. will cost a bit more. A bottle of Estrella (the closest thing to a local brew) is down to two euros in several bars as well.

For comparison, I was paying six Euros in the French Alps a few weeks ago when I went for an autumn training course, so Arinsal really is good value this year.

All the lifts in Arinsal and Pal are open, and all but one of the runs. This is actually pretty unusual before Christmas here (or in many ski resorts) as usually it takes time until there is sufficient snow on all the slopes. In particular, regular visitors will know that the Capa drag lift to the highest slope in Arinsal is often closed due to the windy aspect of the run down. This means there can be a shortage of snow on that face even when there is plenty of the white stuff in the rest of the resort. This year good early snowfall combined with good management of the slopes have kept the snow in good condition throughout the whole resort. So far this is shaping up to be the snowiest season for several years.