Daytrip to Andorra

History of Andorra

In the Middle Ages, this small landlocked country began as a buffer state, created by the French leader Charlemagne. This was used to fight off Muslim Moors from entering France, and in return France would grant them charter. There were many of these buffer states created around this time, but Andorra is the last one of these buffers to still remain an independent country. With tension growing between France and Spain regarding ownership of territory, they decided to share it. The bishop of Urgell of Spain and the President of France are the co-princes of Andorra. Andorra shares many similarities to its surrounding countries such as using Euros as form of currency and speaking Catalan as their official language.

What to do in Andorra

Don’t let Andorra’s geographical size fool you, the activities this place has to offer are limitless.

#1 Grandvalira Pas de la Casa Skii resort

Address: Estació Esquí Grau Roig, AD200 Encamp, Andorra Andorra is a popular skiing destination with its season starting in December through April. There is a good selection of ski resorts, Grandvalira, being one of the largest with over 100 ski slopes to enjoy. It is rumored that the English speaking ski schools in this country are the best Europe has to offer as they play host to international winter sports events including the Ski Mountaineering World Cup.

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#2 Cycling

Andorra is known for hosting various summer events like the World Cup and World Championship biking events. Being one of Europes premium biking destinations, cycling through the mountains is a great way to explore Andorras terrain. Road cycling is another great option due to Andorra’s 21 mountain pass routes which partake in renowned Vuelta de Espána and Tour de France. By going on Visit-Andorra, you can browse their wide range of selections, ranging from electric bike rentals to guides through multiple cycling routes.

#3 Naturlandia

Regardless of the time of year, Naturlandia offers thrilling fun all year around! If you are wanting to test your balance, stopping by  the parks airtrekk and zip-line course is a must. This park is home to the Tobtronc, the worlds largest nature slide, delivering a whopping 5.3 km of excitement.

Address: Carretera de la Rabassa Km. 8 Juberri, AD600 Sant Julià de Lòria, Andorra

 Shopping

#1 The Shopping Mile

#2 Riberaygua i Travesseres

A few blocks from the Shopping Mile lies the 12 street commercial district of Riberaygua I Travesseres. This area is housed with many shops and wide selection of restaurants. Located at the heart of Andorra la Vella, this district is the perfect place to shop as it has great diveristy.

 Spas

#1 Caldea Spa

 

#2 Sport Wellness Mountain Spa

The Sport Wellness Mountain Spa is a calm oasis that uses the properties and benefits of the natural minerals found within Andorra. Here you will receive the best beauty treatments and experience extreme relaxation. Near the mountain tops, steep valleys, and the Valira river, this location is designed to deliver a calming atmosphere.  

Address: Carretera General 2 s/n Soldeu Canillo Andorra, AD100 Canillo, Andorra

Opening hours: Sunday-Thursday 10am-8pm | Friday & Saturday 10am-9pm

Restaurants

#1 Borda Vella

Located in a historical Andorran building, Borda Vella uses high quality ingredients to prepare traditional dishes. Borda Vella serves a variety of small dishes during their lunch and dinner hours, which are perfect for sharing.

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Address: Av. Príncep Benlloch, 22, AD200 Encamp, Andorra

Opening hours: Monday & Tuesday Closed|Wednesday-Saturday 1-3:30pm, 8-10:30pm|Sunday 1-3:30pm, 8-10pm

#2 El Cresper

Winning first place, two years in a row, El Cresper took the victory for serving for the best tapas at the Encamp festival. Priding themselves on quality, El Cresper specializes in Russian cuisine and delivers wonderful dishes. They received a certificate of excellence for three consecutive years, 2015, 2016, 2017.

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Address: Carrer del Pas de la Casa Nº4, AD200 Encamp, Andorra

Opening hours: Monday & Tuesday Closed|Wednesday, Friday-Sunday  12:30-4:30pm, 7:30-11:30pm|Thursday 12:30-4:30pm, 7:30-11pm

How to get there

• Bus: A daily bus service is available from Barcelona Airport and Nord station which takes approximately 3 hours to arrive.
• Air: Airports nearby include Barcelona El Prat, Girona (Costa Brava), and Carcassone Airport in France.

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