Andorra in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Andorra

10°C (50°F) High Temp

1°C (34°F) Low Temp

69mm (2.7 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Pre-ski season pricing - accommodation costs 40-50% less than peak winter rates while mountain infrastructure is fully operational
Grandvalira and Soldeu ski areas begin snowmaking operations, offering early-season skiing on select runs typically from mid-November onwards
Sant Martí Festival (November 11) brings traditional Andorran culture to life with chestnuts, new wine tastings, and folk celebrations in every parish
Perfect hiking weather in valleys - crisp 5-8°C (41-46°F) temperatures ideal for exploring Coma Pedrosa National Park without summer crowds

Considerations

Unpredictable weather transitions - can shift from sunny hiking conditions to sudden snow squalls within hours, requiring flexible daily planning
Limited ski terrain availability - only 20-30% of runs operational until late December, making it frustrating for serious skiers
Shorter daylight hours (9 hours) mean outdoor activities must be planned between 9am-5pm, with mountain areas getting dark by 4:30pm

Best Activities in November

Grandvalira Pre-Season Skiing

November marks the beginning of Andorra's ski season, with Grandvalira typically opening select runs from mid-November. While only upper-elevation slopes are available, you'll experience perfect corduroy conditions without the Christmas crowds. The 1,926m (6,319ft) elevation ensures reliable snow coverage, and lift tickets cost 30% less than peak season.

Booking Tip: Purchase flexible date passes online 7-10 days ahead (typically €35-45/day vs €50+ in peak season). Check daily snow reports as opening dates vary year to year. Book equipment rental in advance as November still has limited inventory.

Coma Pedrosa National Park Hiking

November's cool, crisp air creates ideal hiking conditions before heavy snow closes high-altitude trails. The 2,942m (9,652ft) Coma Pedrosa peak hike offers impressive autumn colors at lower elevations and possible snow-capped summit views. Daytime temperatures of 5-8°C (41-46°F) mean comfortable trekking without summer's heat exhaustion.

Booking Tip: Self-guided hiking is most popular, but guided tours typically cost €45-65 per person. Start early (8:30am) to complete longer routes before 4pm darkness. Weather can change rapidly - tours cancel with less than 2 hours notice.

Andorra la Vella Shopping Tours

November brings the start of pre-Christmas shopping season with duty-free advantages but without December crowds. Electronics, perfumes, and winter sports equipment offer savings of 15-25% compared to neighboring countries. The weather is perfect for walking between shops - cool enough to wear purchases, dry enough for comfortable outdoor exploration.

Booking Tip: Self-guided shopping is standard, but some tour operators offer shopping + cultural tours for €35-50 per person. Best deals are mid-week when Spanish and French day-trippers are fewer. Compare prices before buying - not everything is cheaper despite duty-free status.

Caldea Spa Complex Sessions

November's cool mountain air makes Caldea's thermal waters particularly appealing. The contrast between 6°C (43°F) outdoor temperatures and 32°C (90°F) thermal pools creates a uniquely rejuvenating experience. Indoor and outdoor thermal pools, saunas, and Indo-Roman baths provide perfect post-hiking recovery or pre-ski conditioning.

Booking Tip: Book 3-hour sessions online 2-3 days ahead (typically €35-45 per person) to avoid weekend queues. Evening sessions (6-9pm) offer best value and atmospheric lighting. Combine with overnight stays for package deals that include breakfast.

Iron Route Cultural Hiking

The Ruta del Ferro showcases Andorra's mining heritage across well-marked trails connecting ancient iron mines, forges, and charcoal sites. November's clear air and reduced vegetation provide excellent visibility of historical ruins and mountain vistas. The moderate temperatures make this 3-4 hour cultural hike comfortable without summer's heat stress.

Booking Tip: Self-guided with excellent signage, but cultural tours available for €30-40 per person including transportation between sites. Download offline maps as mountain cell coverage is spotty. Start in La Massana village for easiest parking access.

Ordino Nature Interpretation Center

November offers perfect weather for exploring Sorteny Valley's nature trails before winter closure. The interpretation center provides context for Andorra's alpine ecosystem, while outdoor trails showcase late-season plant life and mountain geology. The 1,470m (4,823ft) elevation means comfortable hiking temperatures and impressive Pyrenees views.

Booking Tip: Entry typically costs €5-8 per adult, with guided nature walks available for €15-25 per person. The center closes earlier in November (5pm), so plan morning visits. Combine with Ordino village exploration for full-day cultural experience.

November Events & Festivals

November 11

Sant Martí Festival

November 11th celebration across all parishes featuring traditional roasted chestnuts, new wine tasting, and folk music performances. This authentic Andorran harvest festival offers rare insight into local culture, with each parish hosting unique activities from traditional dancing to artisan markets.

Throughout November

Andorra Shopping Festival

Month-long promotional event featuring store discounts, cultural activities, and special shopping packages. Local businesses offer extended hours and exclusive deals, particularly beneficial for winter sports equipment purchases before peak season pricing.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Insulated hiking boots waterproof to 1,500m (4,921ft) - essential for mountain trails that may have early snow or ice patches

Layering system: moisture-wicking base layer, fleece mid-layer, waterproof outer shell - temperatures can swing 15°C (27°F) between valley and peaks

Waterproof gloves and warm hat - wind chill at elevation makes 5°C (41°F) feel like -2°C (28°F)

Packable down jacket - weighs 300g but crucial for unexpected temperature drops or extended outdoor time

Waterproof day pack with 25L capacity - frequent light rain showers require gear protection during hiking

UV protection sunglasses - November snow reflection at altitude increases UV exposure despite lower winter sun angle

Thermal underwear for skiing - base layer essential even for short ski sessions at 2,000m+ (6,562ft+) elevation

Portable phone charger - cold weather drains batteries 30-40% faster, critical for mountain navigation apps

Lip balm with SPF 30+ - dry mountain air and UV reflection cause rapid chapping at altitude

Compact umbrella - more practical than rain jacket for Andorra la Vella shopping walks during brief showers

Insider Knowledge

Local ski shops begin equipment sales in November with 20-30% discounts on previous season gear - better selection and prices than waiting for January clearances

Restaurant lunch menus change to hearty mountain fare in November - try trinxat (cabbage and potato dish) and escudella (traditional stew) at local establishments rather than tourist-focused venues

Grandvalira season passes purchased before November 30th cost €100 less than December purchases, and include parking privileges that save €8-12 daily during peak season

Many hiking trails close December 1st for winter - November is the last chance to access high-altitude routes like Juclar Lakes or Tristaina Lakes without specialized winter equipment

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating weather changes - bringing only light layers when mountain conditions can drop from 10°C to -5°C (50°F to 23°F) within hours of elevation gain

Expecting full ski resort operations - many visitors arrive expecting complete terrain access when only 20-30% of runs are operational until late December

Scheduling outdoor activities too late - not accounting for 4:30pm mountain darkness means rushed or cancelled hiking plans for activities starting after 2pm