Nothing works up a healthy appetite like a good morning on the slopes. If you’re anything like us, you’ll agree that finding a quality lunch spot is an absolute must. We want hearty food, stunning views and plenty of atmosphere. Not that we're picky or anything...
One of our favourite things about ski holidays in Andorrais the amount of excellent eateries scattered around its beautiful mountains. And as an added bonus, food and drink prices in Andorra are way less wallet-drainingthan in most European ski resorts.
So here’s our choice of the best mountain restaurants in Andorra to help you refuel in style.
Refugi del Llac de Pessons Restaurant, Grau Roig
Best for: Aluxurious take on traditional dishes
Treat yourself to a quality lunch at one of the best restaurants in Andorra, you are on holiday after all! This cosy restaurant cleverly blends old with new – from its rustic interior with smart modern touches to its mouth-watering food.
You’ll find traditional Andorran dishessuch as escudella stew with its giant meatballs and warming meat brothalongside cutting-edge desserts from a master pastry chef. They’re known for their grilled meats (try the Japanese Wagyu beef for a real taste of luxury) and scenic champagne terracewith sleek glass sides that are perfect for taking in panoramic views as you sip on bubbles.
Don’t miss the ‘Black Slope’ if you’re a chocolate fan!
Cala Bassa Restaurant, Pas de la Casa
Best for:Chilled out vibes and amazing music
Ibiza cool makes it all the way to Pas de la Casa as the Cala Bassa Beach Club turns its attention to the slopes. Their funky Snow Lounge is a popular hangout with its outdoor hammocks, comfy sofas and sunbedsand Ibiza-style DJs.
Inside, you’ll find contemporary white furniture and breath-taking views in all directions. Dishes at Calla Bassa Andorra are inspired by the Mediterranean but they’ve upped the hearty factor to satisfy winter appetites.
Cisco's, Arinsal
Best for: Lunches with a spicy kick
Andorra restaurants aren’t all about hearty mountain food. This colourful eatery serves up fantastic Tex-Mex food that really packs a punch. Warm up with sizzling fajitas or get your meat fix with some juicy BBQ ribs.
There’s also a great choice of veggie, vegan and gluten-free options to keep everyone happy. We’re big fans of the fruity mango chicken, ask for extra chillies if you like your food hot! With reasonable prices and a location just at the bottom of the Arinsal gondola, it couldn’t be easier to slide off the slopes and into the warm.
Roc de les Bruixes Restaurant, Canillo
Best for: Family-friendly eats
If you’re looking for a warm welcome and a home-from-home feel, this comfy restaurant is well worth a visit. The kids’ menu has enough treats to please even the fussiest of little eaters and the terrace’s views are beyond belief. If youonly fancya quick, laid-back bite, their al fresco fast-food stand sells burgers, sandwiches and snacks – you’ll be back on the snow before you know it.
If you love your cheese, make sure you try the fondue. With decadent melted cheese kept warm over a little table-top stove, who could refuse such a thing?! Dipping chunks of bread into communal molten cheese is a fun lunch for both kids and adults. You’ll also find a great choice of authentic stone-grilled meats on offer.
Hotel Iglú, Grau Roig
Best for: A unique dining experience
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to have dinner in an igloo (and even if you haven’t),get yourself a reservation at this quirky restaurant. Housed inside a real igloo decorated by fiveAndorran artists, this one-of-a-kind establishment offers surprisingly cosy, candlelit evenings.
The chairs are covered with fluffy sheepskin and once the room is full of happy diners, things really aren’t too chilly,although you might want to wear your thick socks!After dinner, curl up with a blanket around a fire on the outdoor terrace for some star-gazing bliss.
The Exceptional Tea Lounge Experience, Soldeu
Best for: A great cuppa
When only a nice cup of tea will do (we all have those moments), head along to this chilled out Soldeu lounge bar. They actually serve a wide range of drinks including milkshakes, cocktails and smoothies, but if you want a celebration of tea, this is most definitely the place to come.
Love herbal teas? Fruit teas? A good old cup of Earl Grey? They’ve got it covered. Oh, and they also do a fantastic line in baked goods. Pretty good, huh?
Not only do they make the best tea in town, the music, décor and cool video screensshowing Sri Lankan tea plantationstransport you to an exotic world far, far away from the slopes.
You can find this atmospheric spot just next door to the ski school.
L'Abarset Restaurant, El Tarter
Best for:Excellent tapas and lively après fun
El Tarter may be compact -it doesn’t have a huge array of restaurant choices – but this lively bar is the perfect spot to kick-start your evening.
The party buzz gets going from around 4pm, and they do some lip-smacking food. Dishes boast a strong Spanish influence, with things like Iberian pork among the highlights. They also offer a great tapas menu, ideal for sharing as you dive deep into a few drinks and live music.
If you want to continue your après-ski adventures into the night, just pop along to the bars and clubs in neighbouring Soldeu, where the party really doesn’t stop.