SKI season 2024/25
Baqueira and Andorra lead the winter destinations and achieve record figures.
The combination of factors position this season as a benchmark for winter tourism.
Snow conditions: A generous and well-prepared winter
One of the keysto this season´s success has been the quality and quantity of snow. In Baqueira Beret, conditions were exceptional thanks to the early snowfalls and, above all, thanks to the efficient production of artificial snow. This made it possible to open up to 129 kilometres of pistes, exceeding the 115 kilometres available during the same period in 2023. In addition, thicknesses ranged between 35 and 70 cm, guaranteeing a good experience for skiers.
In Andorra, the situation was no less remarkable. Grandvalira, together with Pal Arinsal and Ordino Arcalís, offered between 80% and 95% of its slopes open during the holidays, with an average of 145 skiable kilometres, which has resulted in the highest number of skiers in the last five seasons. These results are the result of impeccable planning by the terrain teams, who knew how to make the most of the favourable weather conditions. In this aspect, both Baqueira and Andorra have shown notable progress compared to 2023, when weather fluctuations limited the skiable offer.
Diversification of activities: Beyond skiing
Skiing remains the main attraction in these regions, but this year there has been a significant effort to diversify the activities available. In addition to winter sports, special events such as torchlight descents, live concerts and international competitions have been organised. New Year’s Eve, the visit of the Three Wise Men and Santa Claus are other activities that help to consolidate these destinations, adding a festive component that attracts both skiers and non-snow sports tourists.
Baqueira continues to expand its range of services, where the Moët terrace has stood out these days of good weather and the quality of traditional restaurants known to all, together with the new ‘place to be’, the Hincha restaurant managed by Nandu Jubany and the famous ‘tardeo’ in places such as Fandango and soon the new Beso Baqueira.
For its part, Andorra continues to vibrate with its après-ski proposal, L’Abarset, an innovative space that combines gastronomy, live music and cultural activities. Located in the El Tarter sector of Grandvalira, L’Abarset offers a unique experience for skiers and occasional visitors alike, with themed dinners, exclusive concerts and an atmosphere that makes it an essential meeting point in the region.
Hotel occupancy: A record season
Hotel occupancy was another highlight of this season. In Andorra, the occupancy rate during the Christmas holidays exceeded 84%, an increase of ten points over the previous year. Between Christmas and New Year, an impressive 92.36% was reached, while during the Three Kings, the figure was close to 90%, almost 14 points higher than in 2023. These figures reflect not only the recovery of tourism, but also a sustained growth that consolidates Andorra as a preferred destination in Europe.
In Baqueira, the average occupancy of accommodation in the demarcation has exceeded 80%, with peaks of between 90% and 100% in the hotels at “the foot” of the slopes during the New Year. It is worth noting that we have seen prices above 1,000 euros per room in some of the valley’s leading 5-star hotels.
This positive performance in both regions is due to a combination of factors: snow conditions, promotion of complementary activities, cobranding with third parties and efficient tourism management.
Economic impact and closure perspectives
The economic impact of the 2024-25 season in Andorra and Baqueira has been extraordinary. Preliminary figures suggest growth of between 15% and 20% over the previous year, consolidating the importance of this period for the local economy. This performance has been possible thanks to a combination of favourable weather conditions, a diversified offer and efficient management.
Looking ahead to the end of the season, the outlook is equally optimistic. Bookings for the coming months are on an upward trend, indicating that this momentum will continue. Moreover, the investments made in these regions in recent years have proven to be successful, positioning them as benchmark destinations in Europe.
A year to remember
The 2024-25 season has been a resounding success for Andorra and Baqueira. Beyond the record occupancy and economic figures, the most remarkable thing has been the ability of both regions to reinvent themselves, offering a comprehensive experience that transcends skiing. This focus on the customer and services attracts a more diverse public and has laid the foundations for sustainable growth in the coming years.
The comparative balance with 2023 leaves no room for doubt: 2024-25 has not only exceeded expectations, but has set new standards of excellence. Now, the challenge will be to maintain this trend and continue to innovate to ensure that Andorra and Baqueira continue to shine as top tourist destinations, time permitting.