This trip is best for
- Adventure-seekers
- Peace-lovers
- Dog owners
- Walkers
- Hikers
Getting there
From the Eurotunnel Terminal in Coquelles, the drive to Arinsal is approximately 12 hours 20 minutes. It may seem a long drive at first glance but the beautiful scenery and resort is absolutely worth it, you will not regret it! We travelled down as a family, with our dogs, and chose to stop off at different services en route. We use the Toll Roads and find that the services on the way are all are very clean with great facilities… perfect to stretch yours and the dogs’ legs!
It is a super simple route to get to Arinsal, although the distance can make it a challenge. Do not be put off - stop regularly for the family and make sure everyone is prepared for that length of time in the car, with as much entertainment as you can for the children! We have the Emovis Toll Tag which is excellent for the toll booths. Research it, then get one. You will not have to queue, and you can drive through the toll booths at 30kph without stopping.
If you did not want to drive the whole journey in one go, there are a lot of different places and towns to stop off at, either for a meal or overnight, such as Bourges, Limoges and Toulouse. On the way, you will also find that you will be near to Regional Nature Reserves, including the Brenne Natural Regional Park, if you want to take a walk or have a picnic. En route, we chose to have a break overnight in South of Orleans, France in a dog friendly Air Bnb. A lovely stop for everyone to sleep, eat and refuel for the next day!
Where to stay
We stayed in Arinsal, Andorra. Arinsal is a lovely wonderful resort in the Pyrénées mountains. The people are warm and very hospitable making it a safe and friendly destination. If you love fresh air, Summer or Winter adventure sports in a charming environment then this is perfect. We now avoid the hustle and hassle of the Alps and drive straight here. We have been driving for several years now and always take the Eurotunnel. We have also discovered the Flexiplus ticket now... it is definitely the way to go. We have not been on a plane into Europe now for at least 5 years, and certainly don’t regret it.
What to do
Of course, we spend a lot of our time skiing at the Arinsal Ski Resort, which is at an altitude of between 1,550 and 2,560 metres. The Ski school is fantastic, with skiing and snowboarding lessons offered to people of all different levels.
At the resort, you will be able to choose from the different restaurants and bars, such as tapas bars and pizzerias. Hunters Sports Bar & Grill in Arinsal is our favourite off piste haunt, whereas The Refugi on the mountain is perfect during the day for a bit to eat and a drink.
As well as skiing, we went on walks as there are many walking routes and hiking trails. If you are interested in other activities, the Arinsal resort also offers paragliding, helicopter flights, sledging, bowling and many more! For those that would like to have a few hours or a day of relaxing, look no further than the Caldea Thermal Spa located in the capital Andorra La Vella, at approximately 20 minutes from Arinsal. You will be able to treat yourself to a treatment of your choice!
We absolutely loved this holiday - being with the family every day on the slopes, laughing and loving in such a friendly resort.