THE FACTS ABOUT SOLDEU AND EL TARTER

WHERE The best ski resort in the duty-free principality of Andorra, it is made up of two adjoining villages. Chalet-style apartments and hotels are built in the wood and stone of the local area. WHAT Moderately sized ski area with 29 mainly modern lifts, well suited to beginners especially those on a tight budget looking for lively nightlife. But also good for families. WHY The ski school has a long tradition of teaching British beginners; about 65 per cent of the instructors come from English-speaking countries. HOW Carcassonne airport is two-and-a-half hours' drive away. The places to stay are Soldeu's Sport Hotel or Hotel Del Clos in El Tarter. Barbecued dishes are a speciality at Cort de Popaire restaurant in Soldeu. www.soldeu.ad