ANDORRA
The Principality of Andorra, nestled in the Pyrenees between Spain and France, one of the smallest countries in Europe (only 486 km2), offers some of the most fulfilling experiences. This is a country where you
• will be astounded by the natural beauty of the mountains and valleys,
• can participate in open-air activities in summer and in winter, such as skiing and hiking,
• but also enjoy cultural treasures, festivities and culinary delights equal to the best.
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INTRODUCTION
Nestled in the rugged mountains of the eastern Pyrenees, landlocked between Spain and France, this micro country with a population of just about 80 000 annually draws more than 10 million visitors. Its special scenery is well-known, so much so, that few Tour-de-France routes do not have a stage running through a section of its awesome surroundings.
ACCESSIBILITY
Andorra does not have an airport by itself, but several international airports are situated at less than 200 km, whilst several bus lines offer transport to the Principality. It can also be reached by train from different railway stations in France and Spain. One of the most rewarding ways of traveling to Andorra is by way of a rented car, creating the opportunity of stopping en route in order to enjoy the stunning scenery, such those over the highest pass, the Port d’Envalira (2408 meters) when entering from France.
WHEN TO GO
Andorra is a tourist haven during winter as well as summer. In the summer months several hiking trails or ecotourism tours take the visitor through the country’s scenic beauty and unexpected secrets. During the winter some of the best ski vacations can be experienced, with all the activities associated with it.
GETTING AROUND
Andorra has an excellent and punctual public transport network of buses and taxis, making traveling around very easy. From most towns and sights public vehicles will depart between every 20 minutes and 1 hour. However, car rental, with agencies to be found in most towns, give the tourist the freedom of traveling around without a fixed time-table. The service usually runs from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets can be bought on the busses itself.
TOP 5 – DON’T MISS
The extraordinary natural location of Andorra, outdoor activities throughout the year are the main draw card for the adventurous traveler, during winter concentrating on snow-bound activities, and during summer on activities like hiking, mountain biking, adventure circuits, quad excursions, horse riding and obstacle courses. The following should be considered:
• The two alpine skiing areas, namely Valnord in the La Massana and Ordino valleys with 90 km. of ski slopes, and Grandvalira in the Canilla and Encamp valleys, with more than 200 km of slopes – the largest skiable area in the Pyrenees. Apart from the normal skiing, a wide variety of activities can be participated in, like snowboarding, paragliding, helicopter flights, jumps, mushing, even night-time excursions into the forests under the full moon, or on a sledge pulled by dogs.
• The Nordic ski resort Naturlandia, with its 15 km of slopes, offering activities like a snow shoe nature route, a snow slide, the 5.5 km long Tobotronc, the longest alpine coaster in the world, snow motor cycles and quads
• Guided hiking routes of different difficulty, like the very difficult Ascent of Comapedrosa, to the top of the highest peak in Andorra, at 2 942 meters, or the easy Cami del Lienvataireof 4 hours crossJuliá de Lona.
• The 54 unguided hiking routes, especially the GRP (Grand Country Route), about 100 km long, divided into seven easy stages of about 14 km each, crossing the Principality in its entirety, allowing participant to enjoy the unique surroundings.
• The several cultural routes by which the cultural and religious heritage of the country can be discovered, such as the Dolce Petjades (twelve footprints), a cultural circuit on the Cami del Canillo (the path to Canillo)
TOP SLEEP & EAT SECRETS
The following can be advised in Andorra la Vella, the capital of the Principality:
Bed & Breakfast
• Hostal Cisco De Sans – One of the oldest buildings in the historic part, off the main street. Historic charm.
• Hotel Festa Brava *** – Great location in old town, great value.
Hotels
• Hesperia Andorra La Vella **** - Excellent city centre with views on mountains from balconies
• Hotel Acta Arthotel **** - Good location, value for money
• Hotel Parador de Canolich **** Exceptional located in tiny village Bixessarri
Restaurants
• Papanico – City centre, romantic surroundings, traditional dishes, delicious tapas.
• Borda Estevet - Classic, vibrant, rustic, traditional regional dishes with Catalonian influences
MEETING THE REAL PEOPLE
Different festivals and religious celebrations throughout the year offers the opportunity not only to gain an insight into the history and traditions of the Principality and its inhabitants, but also a unique opportunity to observe their way of life
Religious celebrations
• The Canòlich Procession - last Saturday of May
• The Feast of Our Lady of Meritxell, patron saint of Andorra - 8th September
Cultural festivals
• The Andorra la Vella annual festival - 1st Saturday August up to Monday
• Sant Juliá de Lòria annual festival – last Sunday July, and two days before and after.
• Canillo Public Festival – 3rd weekend in July
• Escaldes-Engordany Publisc Festiva – 25 and 26 July
Apart from these the museums of Andorra offers various evening activities in the summer months, gastronomic shows are held, and fairs and markets can be attended in the different towns.
- Manie