Mushing in Andorra: dog sledding in the snow of Grau Roig

Mushing in Andorra takes place in several parts of Grandvalira, and one of them is right around the hotel: the forests of Grau Roig. You climb onto a sled pulled by Nordic dogs and cross the snow in a way that feels nothing like skiing, with no lifts and no engine noise. Here is what it involves, which routes are available and what you should bring along.

What is mushing?

Mushing means travelling across the snow on a sled pulled by dogs. There are two ways of doing it: as a passenger, with a professional musher handling the team, or driving the sled yourself while a guide gives you directions. In Grau Roig you can do both, so you also get the chance to be a musher for a day.

The dog team

The dogs are the heart of mushing. Grau Roig uses Nordic breeds such as the husky, the Samoyed and the Alaskan Malamute, all well suited to the cold and to running on snow. When the ride ends, operators usually leave a little time for you to get close to them and stroke them.

The sled and the driver

Passenger sleds are larger, take several people, depending on the operator, and are driven by a professional musher, so no effort is needed on your part. Driving sleds are individual, lighter and fitted with a brake. You stand behind the basket and steer a team of 4 to 6 dogs, depending on your weight, while the guide gives you instructions for the whole route.

Why choose mushing in Andorra?

Because it is the calmest way to see the snowy mountains, and it fits very well into a ski week. It is a winter activity available during the snow season, so you can save it for an afternoon off the slopes, or for that day when your legs need a rest but you still want to be up in the mountains.

Routes in Grau Roig

The operator RocRoi advertises rides of 2, 3 and 5 km in Grau Roig, a 2 km option where you do the driving, a 5 km night outing and a 10 km ride with dinner. The longer routes head into the Moretó forest. If you would like a longer night in the mountains, have a look at our guide to dinners in high-mountain huts as well.

Who it is for

As a passenger you need neither experience nor any particular level of fitness, which is why it works for families, couples and groups of friends. Age limits change with the area and the type of ride: the night rides in Grau Roig advertise a minimum age of 3 with an adult. The minimum age for driving and the places per sled depend on the operator. Check when you book, as these conditions can vary from one season to the next.

Getting close to nature

What stays with you is the contrast: the silent forest, the sound of paws on snow and the cold on your face. If you like this unhurried kind of outing, pair it with a snowshoe walk. And if you would rather have more speed, there is also the snowmobile.

FAQs

Is mushing in Andorra safe?

You always go out with guides, who explain the activity before you set off and stay with you along the route. Follow their directions, especially if you are driving, and ask which insurance the activity includes: on the night rides advertised by RocRoi, third-party liability cover is included but accident cover is not.

Do I need previous experience for mushing in Andorra?

No. As a passenger, all you have to do is sit back and enjoy it. If you would like to drive, you get your instructions before setting off and the guide stays with you all the way.

What should I bring for mushing in Andorra?

Mountain boots, a good warm jacket, gloves and sunglasses. Add a hat and sun cream, as the snow reflects a lot of light. Dress in layers: as a passenger you will hardly move, so you will feel the cold more.

How do I book from the hotel?

Tell us you would like a mushing outing during your stay and we will help you find the best combination of times: +376 75 55 56 or info@hotelgrauroig.com. The hotel sits at the foot of the slopes, in the Grau Roig sector itself, and features in the MICHELIN Guide. If you are coming to ski, these guides also cover Andorra ski passes and more ideas for things to do in Andorra.