The home of Freeride
Over the past two decades, Ordino Arcalís has become one of the world’s most iconic freeride destinations and the undisputed reference in the Pyrenees. Its north-facing orientation, rugged alpine terrain and exceptional snow quality have positioned the resort as a favorite among riders and freeride enthusiasts.
Known for its technical lines, consistent snow conditions and natural terrain features, Ordino Arcalís offers the ideal setting for elite freeride competition.
In numbers: 450 hectares of skiable terrain, 120 potential kilometres of off-piste skiing, 4 kilometres of marked freeride itineraries and two dedicated freeride zones.
The Origins of Freeride in Ordino Arcalís
Long before becoming a regular stop on the Freeride World Tour, Ordino Arcalís played a key role in the European freeride scene through El Dorado Freeride. This pioneering event became international in 2006, placing the resort on the competitive freeride map for the first time.
This era coincided with the rise of freeride culture in Europe, as riders sought untouched off-piste terrain offering creative and challenging lines. Over several winters, Ordino Arcalís proved it was ready for the world stage — a journey that culminated in its inclusion in the Freeride World Tour calendar in 2015.
2015: Ordino Arcalís Joins the Freeride World Tour
In 2015, Ordino Arcalís officially joined the Freeride World Tour (FWT), quickly becoming one of the most technical stops on the global circuit and, for many years, the only event representing the Pyrenees.
This milestone firmly established the resort as a world-class freeride destination, attracting the best ski and snowboard riders on the planet.
With its natural faces, north-facing slopes and consistently high-quality snow, Ordino Arcalís has provided — year after year — the perfect canvas for riders to express the true spirit of freeride: commitment, creativity and mountain awareness.
The Birth of a Classic (2015–2019)
The arrival of the Freeride World Tour marked a turning point for freeride in the Pyrenees. From the very first edition, competitions featured steep terrain, technical lines, natural jumps and multiple route options that demanded precise decision-making and high-level riding.
One of Ordino Arcalís’ key strengths is its variety of competition faces. Events have been held on Port del Rat, 15 Metres and Pic de les Planes — three of the five or six faces considered suitable for Freeride World Tour competition.
These early years delivered some of the most memorable descents in the event’s history, combining fluid riding, big airs and exposed lines. Ordino Arcalís quickly became a must-stop venue on the FWT calendar, highly valued by riders and judges alike for the purity of its freeride.
International Recognition and Elite Performance (2020–2021)
As the Tour evolved, so did the level of competition in Ordino Arcalís. The 2020 and 2021 editions showcased an increasingly advanced style of freeride, with riders linking complex technical sections to large, committed jumps.
The 2020 event stood out for its exceptionally high competitive level, with performances that played a decisive role in shaping the overall Tour rankings.
In 2021, challenging mountain conditions once again highlighted Ordino Arcalís’ authentic alpine character, reinforcing the idea that competing here means facing real freeride — raw, demanding and uncompromising.
High Stakes and High Emotion (2022)
The 2022 edition delivered one of the most intense competitions ever held in Ordino Arcalís. Riders chose bold, creative lines that pushed the limits of competitive freeride.
This year also marked a milestone for Andorran freeride, with Joan Aracil making his Freeride World Tour debut thanks to a wild card. His participation reflected years of grassroots development and led to his full-time entry into the Tour in 2025, after qualifying through the FWT Qualifier in 2024.
The Last FWT Edition in Ordino Arcalís (2023)
In February 2023, Ordino Arcalís hosted — to date — its most recent Freeride World Tour event. Held in excellent snow and weather conditions, the competition attracted strong crowds both on the mountain and among spectators.
Riders delivered powerful performances, opting for ambitious lines and solid execution. The event ended nearly a decade of world-class freeride competition in Andorra.
Beyond the Freeride World Tour
The Freeride World Tour has also served as a vital platform for showcasing local talent and supporting the growth of Andorran freeride. Riders such as Dani Fornell and Iker Reyes have represented Andorra in international competitions at Ordino Arcalís, helping to build a strong freeride identity and inspire new generations.
Today, Ordino Arcalís stands not only as a competition venue, but as a driving force behind freeride development in the country.
2026: A New Milestone — FIS Freeride World Championships
From 1 to 6 February 2026, Ordino Arcalís will host the first-ever FIS Freeride World Championships, organized under the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS).
For the first time in history, official FIS World Championship titles will be awarded in freeride, across four categories: ski and snowboard, men and women. Each athlete will compete in a single decisive run, within a weather window designed to ensure the best possible competition day.
Qualification will be based on FWT rankings and other official circuits, with an expected field of 66 riders from 17 countries, including local rider Joan Aracil, national teams and selected wild cards.
This historic event confirms Ordino Arcalís and Andorra as a global freeride epicenter, while opening the door to a potential future inclusion of freeride in the Winter Olympic Games.
