Driving in Soldeu.

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, the route runs over the Port d'Envalira — at 2,408m it's the highest paved pass in the Pyrenees. From the French border at Pas de la Casa, Soldeu is about 15km of mountain road and roughly 20 minutes in good conditions. From Spain, take the N-145 to the Andorran border, then the CG-1 through Andorra la Vella and Encamp.

Soldeu has free on-street parking that fills up early on changeover days, plus the underground car park beneath the Centre Esportiu. El Tarter and Canillo both have additional car parks within a few minutes' drive if Soldeu is full.