Driving in Pas de la Casa.

When driving to Andorra it is very important to consider that you will be driving high up into the mountains. It is highly recommended that your car has snow tyres, and that you carry snow chains. If renting a car from the airport, try to book these both in advance.

You can be stopped by the police and not allowed to continue if you do not have winter tyres or snow chains. The weather can change quickly and access from France is a steep, winding road — if the weather is bad you will most likely need chains.

Winter tyres are specially designed to perform in cold conditions. Often referred to as snow tyres, they are more effective than regular tyres even in cold, dry conditions. The rubber compound stays softer in low temperatures, providing better grip on the road.

If you don't have them fitted you will be required to fit snow chains before entering Andorra. Most petrol stations on the French and Spanish approaches sell or rent snow chains for very heavy snow.

From France, follow the N20/E9 down through Ax-les-Thermes and up to the French border. Pas de la Casa sits immediately on the Andorran side at 2,085m — you're at altitude from the moment you arrive, so snow tyres or chains are essential for most of the season. From Spain, you'll cross all of Andorra and climb the CG-2 over the Envalira (around 3 hours from Barcelona).

Pas de la Casa has large multi-storey car parks on the edge of town — most hotels will direct you to the nearest one. Inside the resort itself the streets are tight and parking is limited, so leave the car at one of the central car parks and walk.