Andorra’s Natural Parks: a haven of biodiversity in the Pyrenees

nature in Andorra, hiking, mountain and summer sports, with children 2 de August de 202326 de July de 2023

Join us on a tour of Andorra’s three natural parks that will make you fall madly in love with nature.

The Madriu Perafita and Claror Valley

This is the first on our list of natural parks. This impressive area was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2004. It covers 4,247 hectares, which represents 10% of the country’s total territory, and it spreads over the parishes of Encamp, Andorra la Vella, Sant Julià de Lòria and Escaldes-Engordany. Here, nature is intertwined with history and culture, creating a unique landscape. Explore the trails that cross ancient shepherds’ paths and let yourself be captivated by the landscapes of mountains and green meadows.
As natural attractions you can enjoy peaks such as the Portella, the highest in the park (2905 m.) or the Pic Negre. There are around thirty lakes, such as l’Illa, the second largest in Andorra, and Montmalús. The park is also home to 70% of the Principality’s flora and fauna species.
On the other hand, the cultural heritage in this area preserves vestiges of the traditional life of the inhabitants of Andorra. Such as old stone huts, orris (shepherds’ huts) and ancestral paths. Not surprisingly, it has been recognised as a treasure.
Finally, here’s a curious fact: thanks to the Madriu river, 15% of the country’s electricity is produced and it supplies drinking water to 20% of the population.

The Comapedrosa Natural Park

We continue on our circuit and we cannot miss another of the country’s natural parks. It is located in the parish of La Massana, has a total surface area of 15.42 km2 and is home to the highest peak in Andorra: Comapedrosa at an altitude of 2,942 metres. Walking along the paths of this park is a paradise for lovers of hiking in Andorra. You will be captivated by its imposing peaks, valleys and waterfalls. You can enjoy different routes such as the Pla de l’Estany, reach the top of the country (only suitable for experts) or walk along the Pollós river. You’ll also have the chance to see native species of flora and fauna.
Among the three natural parks, it is the only one that has received the Starlight Reserve distinction. This is a recognition awarded by the foundation of the same name, which considers that an area has optimum conditions for the preservation of darkness. It is considered to have the darkest sky in the whole country, ideal for organising astronomical observation trips.

The third of the nature parks: Sorteny

Last but not least, we turn to the Sorteny nature park, which covers an area of 1080 hectares. It is the first nature park to be created in Andorra in 1999. Located in the parish of Ordino, it was declared a Unesco Biosphere Reserve in October 2020. It is a paradise for botany lovers and photography enthusiasts. It has a botanical garden where you can observe part of the diversity of flora with more than 700 species of flowers and plants. It is the starting point for many hiking routes and in winter it is famous for its snowshoeing routes. This natural park is home to two of the highest peaks in the country: Estanyó (2,915 m) and Serrera (2,913 m).
It is also part of the Three Nations Pyrenean Park, together with the Comapedrosa, Pyrénées Ariégeoises and Alt Pirineu parks. One of the most emblematic points is the peak of Medacorba, which is the point of confluence between Andorra, France and Catalonia.

Activities in the natural parks

From the imposing grandeur of Comapedrosa to the exuberant beauty of Sorteny and the historical charm of Vall del Madriu. All the parks have a particularity that makes them unique and different from the others. What they all have in common is that they are areas of great natural value that deserve to be preserved and cared for. The natural parks offer a wide range of outdoor activities, such as hiking trails, with the possibility of hiring professional guides. They also have climbing and via ferrata routes, horse riding and mountain biking routes, and even ski mountaineering in the winter months.

So don’t hesitate any longer, put on your hiking boots and venture into these natural paradises, and don’t forget your camera, because you’ll find postcard-worthy snapshots here!
Don’t worry about your rest, we provide it in our flats: Els Llacs Mountain Apartments in Bordes d’Envalira .

Andorra: ideal destination to enjoy nature on E-bike

hiking, mountain and summer sports, nature in Andorra, with children 19 de July de 202319 de July de 2023

If you’re passionate about cycling, we’ve got just what you’re looking for! We’re sure you won’t run out of the more than 150 kilometres of E-Bike circuits that Grandvalira has prepared for this summer.

New E-Bike routes in Grandvalira

Grandvalira has launched new signposted circuits for electric bikes. It’s the perfect opportunity to go cycling along more than 94 kilometres in Grau Roig, Soldeu, Canillo, Pas de la Casa, El Tarter and Encamp sectors. There are different types of trails depending on the difficulty and gradient. Like the ski slopes, they are marked by colours: green, blue, red and black, from the easiest to the most technical. So you can enjoy the routes depending on your level, whether you’ve never tried an E-Bike before or you’re an expert and want to test yourself on more demanding routes. All you have to do is plan your outings and choose the circuits that best suit your needs.

Complete facilities to enjoy the E-Bike

If we add to these routes the circuits of the Pal Arinsal Bike Park, Grandvalira Resorts has a total of 150 kilometres designed for electric bicycles.
The circuits are complemented by new charging points for all electric bike models in Soldeu, Canillo and Encamp, as well as areas with basic repair tools and pressure hoses for cleaning your bike.
To facilitate the access, Grandvalira has launched the Bike Pass, a day pass, which allows you to use the Encamp, Canillo and Soldeu cable cars. If you already have the Andorra Pass or the Nord Pass for the 2022-23 winter season, you have free access to all the ski lifts open in summer.

Enjoy the mountain on wheels

To make the most of the experience, Grandvalira has classified the routes by levels:
– Green and blue: the simple ones. 30 kilometres of routes with hardly any difficulty, designed for cyclists who are just starting out.
– Blue and red: the challenging ones. To enjoy these routes you will need to have a good basic knowledge of mountain biking. A total of 50 kilometres of trails, each one longer than the previous level, with slopes of medium difficulty.
– The red and black ones: the complex ones. These are for very experienced riders, capable of overcoming climbs and obstacles of greater difficulty and steeper slopes.

Want more adrenaline?

The Pal Bike Park awaits you. Located in the northern valleys, it can be accessed from the La Massana cable car. It has more than 60 kilometres of circuits for all mountain bike disciplines, routes for electric bikes and a children’s area to introduce the youngest members of the family to your favourite sport.
From 22 to 27 August it hosts the UCI MBT World Cup, in the Cross-Country, Short-Track and downhill events, in the men’s and women’s categories. It has become one of the most eagerly awaited events for MTB lovers.

Do you prefer to test yourself with your road bike?

In Andorra you won’t get bored riding through its landscapes and mountain passes. A total of 21 challenges await you, many of which have been the setting for epic stages of the Tour de France and La Vuelta a España. In fact, the latter returns to the country at the end of August. We tell you about it here, along with the rest of the sporting competitions that will take place in the Principality.

Flats in Soldeu

Our holiday appartments are ready to welcome you on your cycling holidays in Andorra. We have flats with an unbeatable location to enjoy the mountains and summer sports, with large rooms and 100% equipped so that you lack nothing. We also have a spa so you can relax after a day of adventures with your bike. And of course, we have a cycling room, a guarded room with a camera to store your bike.

If you’re looking for the perfect place for your cycling holiday in Andorra, you’ve found us 😉.
At Els Llacs Mountain Apartments we will be delighted to welcome you, book your flat now.

Electric motorbike tours: a new way to enjoy Andorra

nature in Andorra, hiking, mountain and summer sports 5 de July de 202326 de July de 2023

This summer we have a new proposal that we are sure you will love. You will discover incredible landscapes and ride along mountain trails in a different way: riding an electric motorbike! You will be in direct contact with nature, respecting the environment and enjoying the benefits of an outdoor activity.

Guided excursion on an electric motorbike

If you like the thrill of riding a motorbike and you love the beauty of the mountains, you’re lucky! We offer you a new activity that combines the best of both worlds: an electric motorbike tour in the mountains of Andorra, ideal to do with friends!
The route starts at our flats heading to the Grau Roig slopes of Grandvalira accompanied by a guide. Once there, you will get to the foot of the Montmalús peak, in the glacial cirque of Pessons.
The excursion lasts 50 minutes, during which you will enjoy nature and feel the fresh air in your lungs. Thanks to the electric motorbike you will be able to get close to the fauna and flora of the area, in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way, and without damaging the natural environment.

What do you need to ride an electric motorbike?

As a requirement, you only need to know how to ride a bicycle or motorbike, but it is not compulsory to have a driving licence. The organiser of the route provides the loan of the bike, helmet and gloves. On the other hand, it is compulsory to wear long trousers and shoes tied for safety, and minimum height of 1.50 m. and a minimum of 4 people.
Get ready to walk along trails and paths that will lead you to discover breathtaking views!

Book the excursion with Els Llacs Mountain Apartments

To make things easier for you and to offer you the best possible price, we have created an offer that will allow you to enjoy this adventure. It includes the circular route with a guide and one night in the flats located in Bordes de Envalira (to which you can add as many extra nights as you wish).
Booking is very easy: just choose the flat of your choice, select the number of nights and make the reservation. What’s more, by booking through our website you will benefit from an additional 10% discount.

Combine nature with many other activities

When you get off the bike you will still have 1000 more experiences to live.
Here are just a few to inspire you:

– Hiking in the mountains

Combine the routes on an electric motorbike with hiking excursions. Near Els Llacs you will be able to cross valleys, climb lakes and peaks of Andorra that will leave you open-mouthed.

– Play golf in Andorra

Grandvalira is home to the highest golf course in Europe, which can only be reached by the Soldeu cable car. It has 9 holes and a par 33, and is completely integrated into the surroundings.

– Spend a few hours at the spa

It’s time to visit the spa! Our flats have a spa for the exclusive use of our guests, included in the price. Here you can bathe in the indoor and outdoor jacuzzis, and relax in the sauna or Turkish bath. And if you want more, you can book a massage or discover the Mountain Spa Mountain Wellness Club in Soldeu (both options at an additional cost).

Relax in our holiday apartments

After so much excitement, come back to your comfortable and cosy mountain flat to recharge your batteries – you’ll feel right at home! The rooms are equipped with comfortable beds, while in the kitchen you won’t miss anything to prepare your favourite meals.
We have everything you need, whether you come as a family, with friends or as a couple at any time of the year… and without leaving anyone behind as we are pet friendly and accept pets.

If you are already planning your holidays in Andorra, don’t hesitate to book our offer with flat and excursion with electric motorbike, we are waiting for you!

Easy and fun hikes for the whole family in Andorra

with children, hiking, mountain and summer sports, nature in Andorra 21 de June de 202321 de June de 2023

In Andorra, there are a thousand options for young and old alike to enjoy a day out in nature. The impressive landscape of mountains and valleys with a number of routes suitable for all levels make it an ideal place for hiking with children.
Here are some of the easiest and most fun itineraries that we have thought of for you, although there are many more options available.

The Toll Bullidor Path: a stairway to the water

To get to the start of this route you don’t have to leave the parish of Canillo. All you have to do is take the car and drive to the Meritxell roundabout in the direction of Les Molleres. Once you park you can start the trail to the Toll Bullidor, from the bridge. It is an easy walk that follows the river where there is a viewpoint that allows you to see the beautiful village of Meritxell and the sanctuary. You have to go down a flight of steps to reach the viewpoint to see the waterfall.

Tristaina’s First Lake: a trail for beginners

This is a simple hike with little elevation gain lasting 40 minutes, ideal for children to make their first excursion to the mountain. The starting point is in the area of La Coma in the Ordino-Arcalís resort. The excursion can be extended to see the other two lakes, the lake of Mig (in the middle) and the lake of Més Amunt (higher up). It is a circular hike of 4.4 kilometres that can be done in approximately 3 hours.
From la Coma de Arcalís you can also access the solar viewpoint.

The magical paths of Maraculla: an outdoor activity for the whole family

Hiking with children can also be great fun and educational. In Andorra you’ll find four themed routes specially designed for children to get close to nature. On these circular routes, objects have been placed, integrated into the environment and related to the theme, so that they can learn to interpret them while having fun. You’ll have a great time helping your children to follow the clues! The tourist offices will give you the guides to the magic paths. The circuit called “where the mushrooms are” is the closest to Els Llacs Mountain Apartments. You will have to go to the Coll de Ordino road and follow the tracks in the guide to discover the most common mushrooms in Andorra.

The Ordino Living Forest (Bosc Viu): hiking with children in an original way

You will have to go to Ordino to reach the starting point of the trail in the forest of l’Esquella. It lasts 10 minutes and is suitable for children aged 3 and over. It can also be done from the village of Segudet, with a pleasant climb that will not take you more than 40 minutes. Once you reach the forest, you will discover the tradition of the Christmas Tio walking among the tree trunks. Right next to the Bosc del Tió, and without leaving the Living Forest (Bosc Viu), you can stroll through a space where nature and art come together. The sculptor Angel Calvente integrates his works into the trees to achieve a magical and original effect.

Will you find the seven Tamarros of Andorra?

The mountains of Andorra are magical and hide many legends that are the perfect excuse for hiking with children. On this occasion we suggest you go out and find the Tamarros, fantastic beings that protect nature in Andorra. There are 7 of them distributed all over the country and they are located in easily accessible mountain spots. We’ll just give you a hint about the first one: it’s called Nilo and it’s very close to the Maraculla magic path in Canillo .

Hiking routes with children
This is a very enriching activity, as it allows them to breathe pure, fresh mountain air and is an excellent way of doing sport with the whole family. The trails adapted for the little ones are designed so that they can gain knowledge while having fun and discovering the local flora and fauna. These trails are perfect for all ages and many can be done with a dog.

If you decide to introduce your children to hiking, we will provide you with the best rest for them to recover their strength after a day of excitement.

3 Plans to make the most of the summer in Andorra

with children, hiking, mountain and summer sports, nature in Andorra, pet friendly 17 de May de 202315 de May de 2023

In Andorra, the hottest season of the year is packed with outdoor activities, where the mountains and nature are the main protagonists. There are many options for all tastes. To give you an idea of what you can do, we’ve prepared 3 summer plans that you won’t be able to resist, and there won’t be a second left for boredom. Would you like to discover them?

Adventures in the heart of nature

The first of the 3 summer plans starts at Naturland. For this you’ll have to take the car and head for Sant Julià, the first town you come to when you arrive from Spain. The adventure park is located in La Rabassa and offers a wide range of activities. From exploring routes on foot, in a buggy or on horseback, climbing the zip line with curves through the trees, archery, jumping on the xtrem jump or discovering the farm animals, among others. Not forgetting the famous Tobotronc, an alpine slide through the forest on the way up and an adrenaline rush on the way down. It is the star attraction of the park and is great fun.
There is no doubt that you will spend an incredible day with a variety of activities suitable for the whole family.

Recharge your energy in the hot springs

After a day of emotions, before coming to rest at the holiday flats, we recommend you to make a stop at Caldea. It is the visit that you can combine with everything when you travel to Andorra. Take a bath in its thermal waters and enjoy the Thermoludic spaces if you go with children from 5 years old or in Inúu if you prefer an Adults Only experience. In both cases you can watch the sunset while you bathe in the jacuzzi of the panoramic lagoon over the river. An experience that you have to live when you go to the thermal centre.
From reception we can arrange your booking so that you don’t miss out on this or the rest of the summer plans.

One of the summer plans you can’t miss out on

Last year Canillo opened the second longest Tibetan bridge in Europe. It is the newest activity you can do in Andorra (last summer it was a great success and this one promises to be a repeat). The Canillo suspension bridge is a metal footbridge 600 metres long, 158 metres high and situated at an altitude of 1875 metres. It is the perfect vantage point from which to enjoy incredible views of the valley and the surrounding mountains. This plan comes with a double offer because you can buy it in a pack with the Roc del Quer. Another of Andorra’s must-see places.
To buy your ticket, you can do so via the website or at the Canillo tourist office.

Rest in style at Els Llacs Mountain Apartments

The tourist flats located in Bordes d’Envalira are what you need to regain your strength after enjoying your summer plans during the day in Andorra. Here you can sleep soundly without worrying about the heat, as we are located in the mountains and the temperature is always more pleasant.
Our holiday flats are 100% equipped and very comfortable. We have spacious flats that will make you feel at home when you stay with the whole family. Besides, we are pet friendly, so you can come with your pet without any problem.

Are you already feeling the adrenaline rushing through your body? This is the sign you need to book your holidays at Els Llacs Mountain Apartments and come and enjoy the best summer plans. If you already know where you want to start when you book your flat, don’t hesitate to contact us so that we can arrange tickets for these activities or others, we’ll be waiting for you!

The Best Mother’s Day Gift: A Family Getaway

with children, hiking, mountain and summer sports, nature in Andorra, Uncategorized 19 de April de 202311 de April de 2023

This year, celebrate Mother’s Day in the most original way. The first Sunday in May is approaching and by now, you must be wondering what could make her happy. Forget about typical gifts and extend the day to a weekend celebration. Plan a family getaway and enjoy the best spring activities in Andorra. We propose a different experience for each type of mom.

A Family Getaway for Adventurous Moms

This plan is for moms who love spending time in nature. Did you know that Andorra has another Tibetan bridge apart from the one that was opened last summer in Canillo? It is located on the road to Cortals de Encamp, it’s more accessible and it’s also free. It’s 50m long and 5m high. It’s a good option for the whole family while waiting for the Canillo Tibetan bridge to reopen. You can also combine it with a hiking excursion in the area.

For Foodie Moms Who Want to Try New Flavors

Take advantage of one of the days to invite mom to eat or dine out. In Andorra, you’ll find a wide variety of restaurants. You can taste everything from typical Pyrenean cuisine to more gastronomic proposals, Asian food, daily menus or tapas. You’ll surely find the place that meets the expectations of the whole family.

For Moms Who Love Culture

If mom loves discovering new places, you’re also in the perfect place. We recommend a tour of the most beautiful towns in the parish of Ordino. You can do it by car or from the town of Ordino to the iron route on foot following the path that runs alongside the road. You’ll pass through mountain villages like Arans, La Cortinada or Llorts while enjoying examples of typical Andorran architecture. You’ll also pass by Romanesque churches and the Cal Pal house in La Cortinada, one of the oldest in the country, which is open to visit on Saturdays and Sundays in the morning.

For Moms Who Want to Go Shopping

Shopping fits in with the rest of the activities and can be done all year round in Andorra. It’s a good opportunity to stroll through the most commercial streets in the center of Andorra la Vella and Escaldes or even Pas de la Casa and help her choose a good gift.

Surprise Mom with an Afternoon at the Spa

Something she’ll love is spending time at the spa to disconnect. Caldea is the ideal place to book a ticket to the thermal waters and combine it with a relaxing massage or beauty treatment. And of course: you can accompany her! From the apartments, we can help you manage the spa plan.
We hope you liked these ideas for celebrating Mother’s Day in a different way. Book your apartment at Els Llacs Mountain Apartments and enjoy a family getaway at your own pace.

Last getaway of the summer at Els Llacs Mountain Apartments

our apartments, Andorra apartments offers, hiking, mountain and summer sports, pet friendly 7 de September de 20226 de September de 2022

Make the most of the last days of summer and get ready to welcome autumn in the best way possible. Stay in our mountain flats and extend the season to face September with more enthusiasm. Here are some of the best things to do during your September getaway.

Feel at home at Els Llacs Moutain Apartments.

Our holiday apartments are cosy and spacious, with capacity for up to 11 people. They are beautiful and unique, in the style of mountain chalets with large wooden ceilings, exposed stone walls, parquet floors and details in wood and wrought iron. They also have a balcony so you can take in the mountain views when you wake up in the morning. And they are fully equipped so that you won’t miss a thing, whether you come for a holiday or a weekend break. If you are a cycling enthusiast, you can store your bike in the Cycling Room, a room with camera surveillance.

Services of our mountain apartaments

As we said Els Llacs are unconventional and have several services to make your stay more comfortable. You can do your grocery shopping online and have it delivered to the flat before your arrival from our website, to save you time. And so that you can travel with minimum luggage, we offer you a welcome pack with the first breakfast of your stay and basic toiletries. Our holiday accommodation also offers a children’s area where the kids will have a great time.

We are pet friendly!

Don’t leave anyone at home on your September getaway. Bring your pet with you, as animals are also welcome in our properties. In this article we tell you what you need to know to travel with your pets to Andorra.

Holiday aparments with spa for your getaway in September

Complete your getaway in the flats’ spa, located in the same building with views of the mountains, ideal after a hiking trip, a day of shopping or a cycling route. It is completely free of charge and has an indoor and outdoor jacuzzi, hammam and sauna. There is also a gym and fitness area so that you can continue with your daily exercise routines. You can also book massages (at an additional cost) to further enhance your September getaway.

Pamper yourself in the spa of the Park Piolets hotel

Continue enjoying the benefits of the spa, but this time in the Park Spa Mountain Wellness Club located in the hotel Park Piolets in Soldeu, the hotel of our same group. Relax in its water circuit and pamper yourself with one of its beauty treatments or relaxing massages. From Els Llacs we can arrange the booking; you only have to request it when you book your accommodation.

Offers to discover Andorra on 2 wheels

If you want to enjoy the landscapes in an original way, we suggest you book one of our offers that include Els Llacs Mountain Apartments and the bicycle. Choose the mode you like best: road bike, mountain bike or e-bike, then select a route and explore it at your own pace.

Your getaway in September: with almost a 20% discount

The best of the best is that if you book through our official website you will get a better price: a 10% discount for booking through this channel and an additional 10% for early booking. So don’t wait any longer and book your last getaway of the summer.

Can you think of any other plan to enjoy your getaway in September? And if you feel like coming on other dates, don’t hesitate. At Els Llacs Mountain Apartments we are open all year round. Follow our blog and find out all the ideas we give you so that you can plan your holidays or weekends in any season of the year.

Discover the Madriu Valley of Andorra

nature in Andorra, hiking, mountain and summer sports, with children 17 de August de 202212 de August de 2022

Make the most of this summer and discover one of the most outstanding natural sites in Andorra. The Madriu, Perafita and Claror Valley is the only natural park in the Pyrenees declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It covers an area of almost 4,250 hectares, occupying 4 parishes: Encamp, Andorra la Vella, Sant Julià de Lòria and Escaldes Engordany, which represents 10% of the total surface area of the country. Are you coming to discover it?

What to do in the Madriu valley?

From the natural park you can reach peaks, the highest of which is La Portella at 2905 metres, and some thirty lakes, such as La Illa (the second largest in Andorra). This area is home to 70% of the native species of the Pyrenees, including birds, reptiles, mammals and fish.

The Madriu Valley is important for its natural value and also for its cultural heritage, as it is testimony to the action of man through agriculture, livestock farming and iron and steel industry. There are still some buildings such as small huts and the remains of the Escaldes forge, testimony to the activity that was carried out in this natural area.

Hiking routes

The Madriu Valley has an endless number of routes for all levels and of different distances. Whether you want to go for a midday stroll with the whole family and climb up to Ramio, or if you are a mountain enthusiast and want to take advantage of the first rays of light to climb up to Estany Blau or Illa Lake. The park is part of thematic routes such as the Coronallacs, a biodiversity itinerary or an itinerary about the iron and steel industry, among others.

The starting points for the excursions can be made from many points in the parishes of Encamp, Andorra la Vella, Sant Julià or Escaldes.

If you prefer to be accompanied, you can hire professional mountain guides. Don’t hesitate to contact us.

Climbing and via ferrata

Fans of this sport will find in the Madriu Valley an ideal place to practise it or to learn it, as it has different routes with different degrees of difficulty.

Activities in the Madriu Valley

During the summer, the park organises thematic talks, routes and activities that take place in different parts of the natural park, to bring this protected area closer to the public.

You can consult all the activities offered in the valley here.

How to get to the Madriu Valley?

It is accessible from the parishes of Encamp, Andorra la Vella, Sant Julià and Escaldes.

You can get there by public transport or in your own car. Nearby you’ll find blue zone or barrier car parks so you can park comfortably.

This summer is all about having adventures, enjoying the mountains and nature. So pack good shoes and suitable clothing and enjoy the hike.

3 hiking routes in the Incles Valley of Andorra

hiking, mountain and summer sports, nature in Andorra, with children 3 de August de 20223 de August de 2022

Not far from our flats you’ll find one of the most beautiful valleys in Andorra, an area rich in the country’s local flora and fauna, and the starting point for many hiking routes.

We warn you: one visit and you’ll want to come back until you get to know all its hidden corners.

Excursions from the Incles Valley

This summer enjoy the mountain in all its magnificence: nature, lakes, forests… Get good shoes and suitable clothing, we’re going hiking!

Hiking route to the lakes of Juclà

This is one of the best known itineraries in the Incles Valley. It starts at the end of the road crossing the Incles river, following a forest track until you reach the Travenc crossroads, where the valley opens up and you can take a rest while you admire the spectacular views. Through the forest you will come across black pines and colourful rhododendrons. Once you have passed the river Travenc, continue to the left along a steeper path to the Juclà plain and climb up to the first lake of Juclà. This is home to the Pyrenean newt, a species that lives in high mountain lakes because of the purity of their waters.

From this point you can continue on to the sheltered refuge and to the Segon del Juclà lake and thus complete the route. This is a route of moderate difficulty with a 465-metre drop and a distance of 4.57 kilometres.

Hiking in the Incles Valley to Siscaró

The second excursion we propose will take you to the first lake of Siscaró. It also starts at the end of the Incles valley and when you reach the Travenc crossroads you have to take the path on the right. You will go up the side of the river until you reach the Siscaró ponds. Follow these rafts that will take you to the Basers rafts and finally to the first one at the lake. In this area you will find the common trout, squirrels and roe deer or varieties of birds such as the alpine pipit, the alpine accentor and the grey wheatear. You will also be able to see the sisallo cane, a kind of plant that gives the lake a greenish hue. The route is a little shorter than the previous one, 3.58 kilometres long and with a gradient of 500 metres. It is also a medium level excursion.

Mountain hike to the Cabana Sorda lake

This hiking route starts at the Comellassos spring halfway along the Incles Valley road. After entering the Pinosa forest, you will go through a ravine and climb up to the Assaladors de Cabana Sorda. Cross an alpine meadow until you reach a small pass and continue to the river to reach the Cabana Sorda lake at an altitude of 2290 metres. The refuge is very close by. The itinerary is of moderate level, 2.76 kilometres long and 470 metres of difference in altitude.

Discover the valley as a family with a fun game

If you want to go with children and have a great time as a family, you can do so with an activity that takes place exclusively in the Incles valley.

The game “Busca’ls” proposes 6 different itineraries along which you will have to search for a series of clues. At the tourist office in Canillo and Incles you will be given a leaflet in which you will have to follow the instructions. Do you dare to find them all?

Once you have completed the challenge, you can return to the offices to receive your diploma and a gift (there are gifts for children and adults) and more surprises.

How to get to the Incles Valley

Located between Soldeu and El Tarter, you can get there by car and park at the beginning of the valley (pay parking, blue zone). Go to the bottom, where most of the excursions start, on foot or by electric train. This eco-friendly means of transport runs from June to September from 9am to 6pm (cost €3 each way).

If you have any questions, there is a small tourist office at the bottom of the valley where you can get all the information you need.

This summer there are still plenty of things to do in Andorra. Make a note of our best plans and book accommodation in our mountain apartments.

What to do in the Pas de la Casa in summer

nature in Andorra, hiking, mountain and summer sports 15 de June de 202214 de June de 2022

Near Els Llacs Mountain Apartments lies Pas de la Casa, an Andorran town on the border with France, which in both winter and summer is full of fun and activities.

In winter, skiing and snow sports; and in summer, mountain routes and hiking. All year round, one activity that is a must in Pas de la Casa is shopping, which perfectly complements the rest of the activities on offer.

Today, we’ll tell you about the main attractions you’ll find to enjoy a day or more in this town.

Excursion to Les Abelletes Lake

If you are looking for nature, you will also find it in Pas de la Casa. We suggest an excursion on foot to the lake of Les Abelletes, the natural border between Andorra and France. The curious thing about this lake is that half of it belongs to the Principality and the other half to the neighbouring country.

The starting point is the Coll dels Isards chairlift in Grandvalira. Following the mountain track you will reach the lake, which is situated at an altitude of 2800 metres. The route is 8 km long (round trip) and it only takes 1 hour to get there. It is a path that you can’t miss, easy to access and can be done with children.

We recommend you check the weather conditions before starting the walk to avoid surprises, as the weather in the mountains can change quickly.

Shopping in Pas de la Casa

If there is one thing the town of Pas de la Casa is known for, it is its wide range of shops. You can do all kinds of shopping: perfumes and cosmetics, clothes to create your best outfits, electronics or motorcycling accessories. In fact, it is very common for French tourists to come to Pas de la Casa to buy these products. In summer, you’ll find sales from 23 June to 5 September, and you can also buy snow equipment in the outlet sports shops.

All over Pas de la Casa you will find cafés, bars and restaurants where you can stop for a drink and a bite to eat. It should be noted that the climate in summer is much more pleasant than in other places (and even more so in recent years when the heat has become much more intense in many towns). In Pas de la Casa the climate is high mountain, cool in the morning and evening and hot at midday. Although it is not unusual to see snow in August.

The sports centre

Pas de la Casa has a sports centre with gymnasium, swimming pool, solarium, paddle tennis and squash courts which is open to the public for an entrance fee. It is used by many sports teams for pre-season training at altitude. This winter it has even hosted the filming of the movie 42 seconds, by Dani de la Orden, starring Jaime Lorente (La Casa de Papel).

The Envalira Mountain Pass

To get to Pas de la Casa you can go through the tunnel or through the mountain pass of Envalira and enjoy the views. At the top of the pass you will find a viewpoint. Stop for a moment to admire the landscape. It has a small parking area, benches to sit and breathe in the fresh air and a small hut made from the wood of the first hut in Pas de la Casa. From there, on one side you will see the town centre and on the other, the mountains and peaks that form the Pessons glacier.

The Envalira pass is the highest pass in the Pyrenees. It is at an altitude of 2,400 metres and has seen the fastest riders in the 2021 Tour de France.

El Pas de la Casa is a village surrounded by mountains at the foot of the slopes and in summer it is the starting point for many hiking excursions. It is near Els Llacs Mountain Apartments and is one of the visits you can make while staying in the flats.

If you want more plans like this, be sure to read our blog.

hiking, mountain and summer sports