Live your own winter tale

visitandorra.com Press Kit / Winter 2019 2 TO ALL THOSE WHO DREAM OF RETURNING TO

3 ANDORRA IN FIGURES Andorra, officially the Principality of Andorra, is a mountain destination in the heart of the (between Spain and France). Its age-old culture and history, spectacular natural surroundings, cultural heritage and dynamic leisure offer, make this small country a must visit destination at any time of the year.

Population (2018): 77,281 inhabitants. Life expectancy (2018): 91.2 Average age of population (2018): 38.9 CPI (2018): 1.9% National minimal wage (2016): 1,017.47 euros. Area of 468 km2

72 mountain peaks above 2,000 m high. El Comapedrosa, is the highest peak in Andorra at 2,942 m.

Valle del Madriu-Perafita-Claror covering 4,247 hectares, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage cultural landscape.

Two nature reserves: Parc Natural de la Vall de Sorteny (1,080 hectares) and the Parc Natural Comunal de les Valls del Coma- pedrosa (1,542.6 hectares).

The lowest point in the country is 840 metres, on the border of the Runer River. The annual average temperature (2018) is 12.3 degrees.

8,239,837 visitors: 51 % from Spain, 41 % from France and 8 % from other nationalities (2017).

45,712 hotel rooms in 363 tourism accommodations (2018).

303 kilometres of slopes with 65% skiable area guaranteed with artificial snow (Grandvalira and Vallnord).

5 ANDORRA A LAND FULL OF HISTORY

6 Charlemagne founded Andorra in 850recognition of the support provided by the local people in his campaign against the Moors. 1278The Principality of Andorra was-1288 created after the signing of the first Paréage, a charter granting joint sovereignty over the territory to the Archbishop of Urgell and Count of Foix, the future King of France. The Andorra Constitution was signed,1993 making the Principality a parliamentary democracy. Andorra joined the United Na- tions, signifying international recognition of the country.

2010Through its efforts to align itself to European legislation it was re- moved from the blacklist of OECD tax havens and far-reaching financial reform was implemented. The Foreign Investment Act was2012 passed, which enables companies with 100% foreign capital to set up in the Principality. 2014The Personal Income Tax Act was passed, completing the coun- try’s tax reform in 2015.

2015Agreement to avoid double - taxation 2016 with several countries. This agreement came into force in July 2015 with France and at the beginning of 2016 with Spain. Andorra has its own political and legal system: it is a co-prin- cipality. The two ceremonial heads of state are the Bishop of Urgell and President of the French Republic.

Andorra is divided geographically into seven parishes:

1.. · 2.. is the last town on Andorran soil before reaching French territory.

3.. · 4.. · 5.. Andorra La Vella, is also the name of the capital of Andorra.

6.Sant Julià de Lòria. Lying on the border with Spain. · 7.Escaldes-Engordany. The newest parish (June 1978). 7 SUMMARY 01. The many faces of Andorra’s ski slopes 10. 02. Family fun in the snow 12. 03. Enjoy the snow with friends 14. 04. Enjoy the snow as a couple 16. 05. Andorra, a place where you can unwind surrounded by snow 18. 06. The flavours of mountain cuisine 20. 07. Shopping up high 22.

08. Andorra, a small country with a great historical and cultural heritage 24. 09. The potential of business tourism in Andorra 26. 10. Did you know... 28. 11. Key sporting and cultural events 32.

9 THE MANY FACES OF ANDORRA’S SKI SLOPES

When winter comes the Andorran ski resorts of Grandva- lira and Vallnord kick off the season with new additions to the ski runs and amenities, seeking to deliver a 360˚ renewed experience.

10 GRANDVALIRA VALLNORD ORDINO-ARCALÍS

This year Grandvalira has improved the snow coverage This year, SAETDE enters to Vallnord Ordino-Arcalísa as a equipment throughout the area in order to guarantee snow in new main shareholder. Furthermore, Vallnord Ordino-Arcalís 66% of the skiable surface. In terms of infrastructure, a new starts a modernization plan of the ski station for the next 10 14,000 m2 skiable platform has been presented at the foot years, investing both in instalations and in the expansion of the Avet ski slope, with parking places with a capacity of of the activities. In addition, the new Tristaina lift, which 450 cars. In addition, the ski school has been completely joins the base of the station to the Coma sector, has been renewed with the incorporation of the Freeride expedition, inaugurated. for the most daring who wish to ski off-piste, as well as the Top Class, which offers the possibility of skiing and driving Also, the season passes consolidate themselves with the Me- on ice on the circuit. teorological Guarantee that allows to a test descent and, if the conditions are not the desired ones, it can be changed For families, the new attraction Màgic Gliss, a 555-metre for another day. Due to the success of last season, this year downhill toboggan, and the new 646 metre-long Yokai you- Ordino-Arcalís doubles the transporting clients service, ta- th circuit located in the sector, will be inaugurated. king them from the door of their hotel or car park to and from the ski slopes. Regarding gastronomy, the Encamp Base located in the Fu- nicamp lobby opens its doors with the new exclusive gas- At the Coma, a new Moritz brewery has been inaugura- tronomic spaces. Moreover, several terraces of the 60 res- ted at the foot of the Creussans chairlift with a different and taurants that the area owns have been renovated, such as daring format, La Borda de la Coma, which redistributes the Cabana Espiolets or the CBbC Costa rodona, betting the space to provide a better service to customers with an on new brands that offer unique experiences to costumers. enhanced offer of fondues, grilled meats and mountain rice accompanied by good wines. VALLNORD PAL-

Vallnord Pal-Arinsal continues with its strategic plan of last year with the great construction of the Coll de la Botella buil- ding, snow cannons, the infraestructure ampliation such as the Arinsal Ski School or the Pal picnic room. In addition, at the bottom of the Arinsal sector, a new ski slope has been created has, the Comallemple, which will have a blue level slope as a beginners’ area to unclog this part. Furthermore, in the Pal sector, five new snowshoeing circuits have been inaugurated, making a total of 14.5km, as well as a new 18.4km for ski mountaineering.

As for the restaurant area, the Coll de la Botella building adds to the offer surprise dinners with activities such as yoga classes or cooking workshops.

11 FAMILY FUN IN THE SNOW Mushing, snow shoes, snow snake, quads on ice… Andorra is a paradise for kids, full of unique attractions, activities for visitors of all ages and a host of adventures to discover.

12 by the emblematic bird, capercaillie, that inhabits the fo- rests of the area.

Naturlandia, a place specially designed for kids

Another of the top family attractions is Naturlandia, in Sant Julià de Lòria. It’s an adventure park where you can see na- tive flora and fauna from the Pyrenees at the Wildlife Park or ride on two of its main attractions. For adrenalin fans, Naturlandia offers Tobotronc, the longest alpine toboggan run in the world and Airtrekk, the biggest sky trail attraction in Europe.

Palau de Gel, activities on the ice rink Ski resorts, an adventure Children can also enjoy activities like petrol karts round The Vallnord resort runs an exciting array of activities the ice rink, as well as skating, curling, ballon-balai and in the snow, apart from skiing, for kids (and big kids!): ice hockey. mushing (dog sledding), ski bike, tubing (ride a giant doughnut down the slopes), snowshoe walks, pony ri- 360º Extrem des… Besides, the Pal-Arinsal ski station runs two clubs for young kids, Babyclub and Pekepark, where the little An indoor freestyle centre for freeskiing, snowboard or ones can discover the snow through sledges and games, skateboard fans who want to enjoy their favourite sport accompanied at all times by qualified monitors and their any time of the year. favourite characters like Pocoyó when they take their first steps in the snow.

In Grandvalira, El Mon(t) Màgic stands out in the Canillo sector as an experience for parents and children based on legends from Andorra and which owns the longest chil- dren’s track in southern Europe. In addition, the youngest children will be able to learn to ski in the most fun way at Bababoom Circus, based on the magic of the circus, or at the Bosque Encantado circuit, where they will be able to discover the secrets hidden in the forest. In addition, this season the children have an obligatory appointment, in the sector of Soldeu with the new circuit Yokai. The main character of this new thematic attraction is inspired

13 ENJOY THE SNOW WITH FRIENDS There’s nothing like having fun and sharing a great time with friends. Getting away for a few days to Andorra with friends during the snow season is fantastic, as the ski resorts offer a host of sports and leisure options over the winter: ranging from restaurants serving excellent cuisine to après-ski bars and clubs where you can party after an intense day on the slopes. Do you know how many ways you have to descend the slopes?

Andorra boasts more than 300 km of ski runs, which are ideal for experienced and adventurous skiers, as well as for beginners. Everything is possible! The wide variety of people who try out the slopes in Andorra is only matched by the range of sports they can enjoy.

Do you share a passion for adrenalin with a friend? Try our speedride, where skiers paraglide several metres up in the air during a downhill run, at Vallnord Ordino-Arcalís, the only academy in Iberia where you can learn this sport.

If you prefer a more leisurely and entertaining descent, the Guaranteed fun on the slopes, day and night snow snake at Vallnord lets you ride down the slopes on sleds linked in chain (like a snake). Individual sleds provide When night falls and your body say it’s done enough skiing guaranteed group fun. Another alternative, called Tubby, for the day, the fun continues at the après-ski bars and clubs is available at Grandvalira, where you can slide down the in the Principality. During the winter season, these venues mountain on a giant inflatable. are the meeting place for skiers out to have a great time with friends dancing to sessions by world-class DJs. Night- If you like motorized vehicles, you can ride round Vallnord life is concentrated in Pas de la Casa and Soldeu, while, and Grandvalira on snow bikes and buggies, explore the in the other valley, Arinsal offers a host of pubs and other mountainside with snow groomer rides (Grandvalira) or nightspots. ride aboard Gicafer, a caterpillar track vehicle in Vallnord Ordino-Arcalís. Music breaks the silence of the mountains

For those who want to be the first to go down the slopes, The fun goes on late into the night at the popular nightspots Grandvalira offers the option of doing so with its activity in Andorra. Throughout the winter season enjoy the party called Primera nieve (First Snow), that gives the possibility atmosphere at night in the town centres (Andorra la Vella of experiencing the sensation of being alone with the envi- or Escaldes-Engordany) or near the ski slopes. ronment. To recharge your batteries, the restaurant of Pi del Migdia offers breakfasts in the sector.

15 ENJOY THE SNOW AS A COUPLE Finding time to spend with your partner and dedicate a Another of the most romantic and spectacular leisure ac- few days to one another is not always easy. However, in tivities are the moonlit tours organised at the Vallnord Andorra snow becomes a factor that binds you together Pal-Arinsal, Vallnord Ordino-Arcalís ski resorts, as well as through a passion for winter sports and all the activities that at Grandvalira. In some cases, you can combine them you can enjoy on the slopes. with snowshoe trips, snow biking or igloo building.

You can also treat your partner to a night trip on a dog sled If you prefer to see the mountains from the sky, the two re- or mushing. Together, you can learn how to train the dogs sorts mentioned above offer helicopter rides. A magnificent or just sit back and enjoy the sense of freedom of being in experience that affords you amazing views of the landsca- the mountains with the person you love by your side. pe. And what could be better afterwards than a candlelit dinner surrounded by the beautiful snowy landscape?

16 17 ANDORRA, A PLACE WHERE YOU CAN UNWIND SURROUNDED BY SNOW The Principality has become an icon of wellbeing, with top-level wellness centres and an array of treatments and therapies available that help you completely relax and even lose track of time. 18 Caldea Two spaces to relax, (Adults Only):

Caldea, the largest thermal spa in southern Europe, is divi- Inúu: Exclusive wellness space, where you can relax and ded into four spaces, each of which adapts to the tastes, leave time pressures behind. The centre covers an area of needs and interests of each client. 12,400 m² and it offers a wide range of innovative treat- ments: you can choose from set programmes or arrange an Two spaces to have fun: initial interview with a therapist, enabling you to enjoy a personalised stay that meets all your expectations and Thermoludic: space designed for all audiences with fa- desires. Among the wide range of options, we can find cilities of 30,345 m², at 1,100 metres altitude. Ideal for oriental massages with the well-known Japanese Shiatsu te- enjoying a moment of well-being and relax with family or chnique, beauty treatments such as O2 relax, a treatment friends, the centre offers massages, beauty and well-being for dehydrated skin that is performed by releasing oxygen rituals, hydrothermal and aesthetic treatments and a range molecules, or treatments that are practiced in the water as of biological cosmetics, Just Bio by Caldea, made from na- Yuthai, which achieves relaxation through flotation move- tural elements. ments. Inúu also has a 100 m² private wellness space for individual use or for couples, designed to provide maximum Likids: the new spa for kids, is located on the first floor at relaxation in a unique setting. In addition, the centre con- Caldea and its exclusively designed for kids aged between tains fitnessand mind spaces and a restaurant. 3 and 8, where wellness professionals will introduce them to the world of the spa in a fun way through activities and Orígenes: Orígenes has a variety of sensory baths such as games following the principles of thermoludism: the Aztec bath to enjoy surrounded by a tropical garden, the grapefruit bath located in a Japanese garden where you - Central laguna with jacuzzi can exfoliate your skin, or the relaxing bath in a zen environ- - Beauty ment to disconnect. Orígenes has everything you need to - Sauna-lounge enjoy a unique moment: outdoor jacuzzis, private solarium, - Fitness saunas, hammam, water beds, the water bar and its Gau- - Sandy beach with dunes dinian-inspired terrace.

Relax at the top spas in luxury hotels

Apart from the wellness centres, Andorra has hotels with spas that deliver a variety of treatments. For instance, the Sport Hotel Hermitage & Spa, the Hotel Grau Roig Bou- tique & Spa, which at over 10 metres from Grandvalira stands out for its hot springs, as well as the Hotel Plaza Andorra, located in Andorra La Vella and equipped with a thermal and a relaxation circuit, and much more.

19 THE FLAVOURS OF MOUNTAIN CUISINE

The first thing that comes to mind when thinking about Andorran gastronomy is traditional moun- tain fare made from the finest quality local pro- ducts, where the warmth of the dishes help com- bating the winter chill. But Andorra is much more than that. Over 400 restaurants in the country ser- ve traditional dishes and Asian and Italian cuisine, signature tapas… a rich variety that will delight lovers of good food and drink.

20 La Borda andorrana, where eating is always a pleasure Visitors can sample authentic Andorran cuisine at any of the Principality’s picturesque 18 bordas (mountain lodges where the grain and livestock used to be kept in winter). Typical mountain fare includes trinxat (potatoes, cabbage and pork meat), es- cudella (soup or stew) and river trout cooked in a myriad of ways, grilled or stone-cooked meat with Protected Geographical Status, or desserts like elderberry ice cream or Andorran crème brûlée.

Local products: wine, beer and mead Food fairs: an ideal opportunity Apart from a large variety of restaurants to suit all tastes, An- The various food fairs hosted in Andorra play an important dorra offers visitors a variety of locally grown products of the role in showcasing typical Andorran dishes. The “Escude- finest quality. lles”, popular St Antony and St Sebastian festivals, and Lo Mondongo, in La Massana are celebrated in January. - First, wine production is flourishing. There are four vineyards: From October onwards, it takes place the “Mostra Gas- Casa Beal, Borda Sabaté, Casa Auvinyà and Celler Mas tronòmica” in Ordino and the “Massana Fogons”, among Berenguer. others.

- Andorra also produces three locally brewed beers, Alpha, One of the most anticipated events on the calendar every Boris and &And, all brewed with the exceptional purity of An- year is Andorra a Taula held over several days in Novem- dorran water, resulting in authentic mountain beers. ber when approximately 30 restaurants prepare special menus to celebrate this gastronomic initiative. - In addition, visitors can sample lesser known beverages like the first mead in Andorra, an alcoholic beverage based on natural honey and that tastes as good as Naturalis and Nec- tum de aveto, a pine nut liquor with culinary, aromatic and medicinal properties, which is unique to Andorra.

- Recently, new initiatives like homemade jams and preserves (El Pastoret and Casa Gendret), distilled spirits La Ratassia de la Carmeta, homemade sausages by Els Escaubells or Cal Jordi, ecological products by Can Sona are also making a name for themselves.

21 22 SHOPPING UP HIGH

Andorra is a fabulous shopping destination, offering over one thousand stores, malls and shopping centres in just a few kilometres for shopping lovers: selling the latest fashion trends, high-end perfumes and cosmetics, gourmet products, sports gear and equipment, cutting-edge technology…

Nonstop shopping Early winter sales!

The Principality has more than 1,000 shops that opens If you can’t wait until 7th January for the sales, you’ll love from Monday to Sunday, from 9:00 to 20:00, and on Sa- Andorra’s winter sales, as they start in December 21 and turdays until 21:00 (varies for each store). Stores only clo- end in March 3rd, although you can also find promotions se 4 days of the year: 1 January, 14 March (Constitution or discounts at stores all year round. day), 8 September (National Holiday) and 25 December. Customs duties Most of the stores are in Andorra la Vella, Escaldes-Engor- dany and Pas de la Casa, and the avenues in The duty-free allowance is up to 900 euros for industrial Andorra La Vella and Carlemany in Escaldes-Engordany products not subject to special legislation and for perso- are famous for their designer boutiques, jewellers and per- nal consumption. fumers selling top international brands at highly competitive More information is available at: www.duana.ad prices.

Walking down these two avenues has a unique charm thanks to the combination of shop windows and mountain views, which make it a favourite shopping destination for many visitors.

23 ANDORRA, A SMALL COUNTRY WITH A GREAT HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL HERITAGE

24 The Principality boasts a rich cultural heritage, across the length and breadth of the territory, as well a wealth of legends and customs that have passed from one generation to the next, shaping Ando- rra as we know it today: a small country with a great historical and cultural heritage to discover.

Over 20 museums concentrated in just Romanesque art, the dominant style in Andorra 468 square miles

You can discover culture in every corner of Andorra. While Romanesque architecture is one of the dominant and the House Museums of the Principality allow visitors to ima- characteristic artistic expressions of Andorra, manifested gine what life must have been like in centuries past, other by the 44 Romanesque churches scattered across the museums reveal the secrets of daily objects. country. One of the most representative of these is Sant Climent de Pal church, which is one of the oldest buil- La Casa de la Vall is the smallest Parliament in Europe and dings in Andorra. A historical gem in the pretty village of the building of greatest historical importance in the country. Pal, where a traditional architecture protection program- As needs grew, a new modern space was built in 2011 to me has been in place since 1997. house the Andorran Parliament. Other house museums of interest include the , Casa d’Areny-Plandolit Cultural Agenda and Farga Rossell forge. Since October 2018, The Carmen Thyssen Museum pre- In terms of modern culture, Andorra has many museums sents “Femina Feminae”, an exhibition that goes over al- on specialist themes to delight visitors. At the Perfume most three centuries of history through the feminine figure, Museum, you can discover the history and evolution of represented by greatest exponents of painting and sculptu- fragrances, you will need a microscope at the Miniatures re that, with different perspectives, techniques and artistic Museum and the World Champions by 99 Museum brings styles, expressed the attractive, the simplicity, the distinc- together a collection of unique items belonging to Formula tion, the nudity and the sensuality of the woman. 1 and motorcycling champions.

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THE POTENIAL OF BUSINESS TOURISM IN ANDORRA

Andorra has a wide range of hotels, conference centres Incentives and seminars in spectacular surroundings and meeting rooms making it a great destination for mee- tings, incentives conferences and events for companies The mountain environment unlocks a host of options ma- seeking to work (and enjoy life) outside the city. king Andorra the perfect location for these activities. It is a great place for outdoor training, which combines coaching, Andorra is an ideal business tourism destination due to its pri- team-building and empowerment techniques, to help busines- vileged geographical location between Spain and France, ses and teams improve performance, independence, self-es- the short distances within the territory, excellent infrastructures teem and cohesion. and varied tourism offering make it a great place for MICE trips. 45.712 hotel rooms mean that companies can enjoy Moreover, amenities are equipped with cutting-edge techno- a memorable 360o experience in one of the safest countries logy, located in unbeatable natural surroundings. Events can in the world. be organised at the Andorra la Vella Conference Centre, the Palau Business Space (Palau de Gel) and many hotels offer fully adapted function rooms.

Andorra has hosted international conferences like the Glo- bal Tourism Forum in 2011 or World Congress on Snow and Mountain Tourism (organised every two years), as well as meetings and incentives for major corporations.

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DID YOU KNOW...

1.Life expectancy in Andorra is one of the highest in the world. It is ranked fifth out of countries with the longest life expectancy in the world, a privileged position influenced by factors such as location, nature, gastronomy of the Principality.

2. Andorra has the oldest Parliament in Europe: Created in 1419 and known as the Consell General (General Council), it is one of the oldest, smallest and longest standing parliaments in Europe.

3. Nature, in the heart of Andorra:

More than 90% of the territory of Andorra comprises mountains, forests, rivers, lakes and fields. Around 4% of the territory of the country is built up, principally in the valleys.

4. Crossing the Principality from side to another:

Sports and nature lovers can cross the whole country by foot without stepping on pavement thanks to the 54 mountain routes. Visitors can stay at any of the 29 mountain shelters providing rest on the route.

5. A privileged environment declared World Heritage Site: Andorra is one of the few countries in the world with 10% of its territory declared a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO. The Madriu-Perafita-Claror valley is one of the most spectacular beauty spots to visit.

29 6. Andorra, outstanding country for skiing: The Principality has the biggest ski area in the south of Europe. The ski resorts of Grandvalira and Vallnord, toge- ther with the Naturlandia adventure park, provide more than 300km of ski runs to enjoy snow in its purest state.

7. There has never been an army in Andorra: The Principality is pacifist in nature, as it has never had an army or Ministry of Defence. The sometent, or popular militia, is required on special occasions, a force comprising the heads of Andorra households aged between 21 and 60.

8. Wine from the heights to enjoy the mountains from another point of view:

Nestled among the valleys, forest and mountains, we find vineyards that produce excellent wine from the slopes. Sauvignon blanc, Riesling, Pinot noir, Albariño… are some of the varieties you can sample.

9. Major Romanesque historical and artistic heritage:

The 40+ Romanesque churches, chapels and moments are gems of Andorra’s cultural heritage that enable you to travel back in time and imagine life in the country in centuries past.

10. Andorra has the longest alpine toboggan run in the world: Running 5 kilometers through the woods of La Rabassa, the Tobotronc, in Naturlandia, is one of the country’s top attractions.

30 31 KEY SPORTING AND CULTURAL EVENTS KEY SPORTING AND CULTURAL EVENTS

Andros Trophy 21st and 22nd December 2018 Font Blanca Mountain Skiing World Cup 26th and 27th January 2019 Borrufa Trophy From 28 th to 31 th January 2019 Skimo Andorra 2019 23rd and 24th February 2019 Freeride World Tour Vallnord-Arcalís Andorra From 2nd to 8th March 2019 El Dorado Junior Freeride March 3rd 2019 FIS Alpine Skiing World Cup Finals 2019 – Andorra From 11 th to 17 th March 2019 Total Fight Masters of Freestyle (Freeski and Snow) From 28th March to 6th April 2019 World Cup Launched Kilometre From 10 th to 13 th April 2019

33 CONTACTS

Andorra Tourism Montse Buil [email protected] Tel: +376 89 11 89 Prat de la Creu, 59-65, Building D, 4th Floor AD500 Andorra la Vella (Principado de Andorra)

Press service of Andorra Tourism Edelman Spain [email protected] Tel: +34 934 881 290 Paseo de Gracia, 86 – Third floor 08008 Barcelona

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