Why go? To learn to ski or snowboard – or gain confidence – in a large, good-value ski area with some of the best English-language tuition in the world. Andorra may no longer be a bargain, but this sunny principality in the Pyrenees does now have a world-class lift system, and the biggest ski area, Grandvalira, is now as extensive as many of the larger resorts in the Alps. The best all-round base is the resort of Soldeu, with large but attractive stone-clad hotels, and lively, but not rowdy, bars, clubs and restaurants. The ski school regularly wins awards, with many Brits, Kiwis and Aussies among the instructors. The country’s duty-free status makes for great savings on ski equipment, as well as a host of luxury goods. Further info: www.grandvalira.com
Best for Anxious first-timers; intermediates wanting to gain experience fast; sun-seekers who like snow and après-ski with a Mediterranean feel.
Best avoided Partying in the neighbouring resort of Pas de la Casa (unless you are under 25 and a passionate pub-crawler). Driving: traffic can be terrible, especially at weekends.
Need to know The hotels are quite strung out along the resort, so book one close to the lifts. The capital, Andorra la Vella, has endless duty-free shopping, and one of the biggest spas in Europe: Caldea.
Also consider Bansko ( www.bansko.bg ) Thanks to a massive investment in ski lifts, this picturesque old town in Bulgaria is now the top choice in Eastern Europe. Modern hotels, cheap nightlife in lively tavernas – and a great-value choice for first-timers.
Livigno ( www.livigno.eu ) Long transfer times (3_–5 hours) to this remote Italian resort help to keep prices down; so does its duty-free status. Fast lifts, extensive beginner and intermediate slopes and buzzing nightlife bring in a cosmopolitan crowd.
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