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Easy and fun hikes for the whole family in Andorra

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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.

Eventos en Andorra

Discover all that awaits you in Andorra this summer

events in Andorra,  nature in Andorra,  with childrenPosted on

We have no doubt that if you are reading this blog it is because you love the mountains, the outdoors and all activities related to nature. Well, we have good news! Because in summer there are endless events in Andorra. From top-level sporting competitions to concerts, festivals and parties that will liven up the days and nights of the whole family. So we bring you the agenda so you don’t miss any of them.

Trail running for mountain lovers

Mountain running lovers will find many challenging proposals.

– The Casamanya Extrem

This vertical race will allow you to crown one of the most emblematic peaks in the country on 11 June. You can choose between two routes: one of 5 kilometres and a vertical drop of 1,440 metres starting from the centre of Ordino and another of 3.5 kilometres and a positive vertical drop of 760 metres starting from the Coll de Ordino. There is also a race for the youngest members of the family (from the age of 11) who want to take their first steps in mountain races.

– The Spartan Race

The same weekend Encamp hosts the Spartan Race, the obstacle course race par excellence. It is made up of 4 races of different distances where the participants will have to face different obstacles, as well as a Kids Race for girls and boys. The Spartan Race scores points for the European Championships and the village offers activities for all ages.

– Trail 100 Andorra by UTMB

A challenge for the most demanding mountain runners. The event has 4 races of varying difficulty and will start in the village of Ordino, from 22 to 25 June. It is one of the most successful mountain running events in Andorra every summer.

– Merrel Mountain Festival Comapedrosa

The 15th edition of the most classic trail running event in Andorra will be held on 23 and 24 July. The Skyrace Comapedrosa and Skyrace Arinsal are joined by a new competition: the Vertical Comapedrosa. This year the Comapedrosa Mountain Festival will be launched and, in addition to the races, it will also offer activities for the whole family in the natural environment of the Comapedosa Park.

– The Pas de la Casa Crossing

From 12 to 13 August, a new trail running event with three distances (3km, 6km and 10km) will start and finish in Pas de la Casa.

Cycling championships and cycle-tourist rallies

One of the big stars of the summer is cycling, so there are many events in Andorra related to road cycling and mountain biking.

– Naturland Enduro Race

This is a mountain bike race that will take place at the Naturland Bike Center on 24 and 25 June. It is part of the Enduro World Series Qualifier, an international competition that qualifies the best riders for the Enduro World Series. It consists of four timed sections in the La Rabassa forest, with an advanced technical level. There will also be a race for children aged 2 to 14, the Enduro World Series Kids.

– The Andorra Epic Pyrenees

This is a mountain bike race in pairs, in the men’s, women’s and mixed categories. It has 4 stages, a total of 220 kilometres and 7160 metres of elevation gain. It is part of the Epic Series and will take place from 5 to 8 July.

– La Volta als Ports

This is the most historic cycling tour in the Principality. It includes 5 different routes, all starting from La Massana. It will be held on 23 July.

– Vallnord World Cup MTB

The Vallnord Pal bike park hosts this MTB competition which counts towards the UCI MTB World Cup from 22 to 27 August in the Cross-Country, Short-Track and Downhill categories. It is one of the most eagerly awaited events in Andorra by mountain biking fans and attracts a large number of people in summer.

– The Tour of Spain

On 28 August, the Grandvalira Resorts’ Arinsal resort will be the finish of the third stage of the Vuelta, starting from Súria. The following day, the day will start from the Parc Central in Andorra la Vella and head for Tarragona. The Vuelta a España is another of the cycling competitions that attracts the largest crowds, along with the Tour de France.

Other events in Andorra

– Outdoor Trial World Championship

From 16 to 18 June in Sant Julià you can see the best riders in the world competing in two rounds, with Toni Bou as the favourite.

– Ironman 70.3 Andorra

Yes, when we say we have everything, it’s true! The Ironman will take place on 2 July. As in previous editions, the swim (1.9km) will take place in the Engolasters lake, followed by the 90.1km road bike section in which the runners will have to climb the Coll de Ordino. The running section (a 21.1km half marathon) will start from the Parc Central in Andorra la Vella.

Parties and open-air concerts

After the sports competitions in the mountains, it’s time to relax and have fun.

– The fire nights of San Juan and San Pedro

This year the festival of the summer solstice of San Juan could not be more perfect. It’s the perfect excuse to organise a weekend getaway to Andorra and experience its fire night traditions. The whole country, from Canillo to Sant Julià, celebrates it with the traditional burning of the fallas and lighting of the bonfire. If you want to enjoy the fire festival again, you can do so on 29 June in Ordino with the burning of the Mai and its village festival.

– The Escaldes Engordany Jazz Festival

The Sala Prat del Roure, where the festival’s headliners will be performing; the Plaça Coprínceps with the “Jazz al Carrer” sessions, where you can enjoy the terrace while listening to an open-air concert or attend sessions and masterclasses for jazz lovers. This music event has been a reference point since 1984.

– The most authentic Cirque du Soleil

Cirque du Soleil presents a new show exclusively for Andorra: FESTA. This time acrobatics take centre stage to commemorate the company’s 10 years of collaboration with the Principality. We advise you to book your ticket before you come, as all seats are numbered. The shows run from Tuesday to Saturday from 1 to 30 July at 10pm.
– Evenings at the museums
The museums organise very special visits in the evenings, with small concerts, themed tours or small tastings of local beers and wines.

These are the events in Andorra that you can attend during the summer months. In case we’ve missed any, here’s the agenda for you to consult.

Whether you come to participate actively in these events or to enjoy them as an audience, you can book your flat in Andorra with us.

 

planes de verano

3 Plans to make the most of the summer in Andorra

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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!

Monumentos de Andorra

Free tour of the sculptures and open-air monuments of Andorra

with children,  nature in Andorra,  pet friendlyPosted on

Our article gives you ideas on how to organise some tours of Andorra’s monuments. Some of them you already know, but you are sure to discover at least one new one. What they have in common is that you can combine them with other activities, they don’t cost anything and most of them are accessible to dogs.

One of Andorra’s most famous monuments

“La noblesse du temps” is located in the square of the roundabout, over the Valira river. You’re likely to come across it while shopping in the country’s most central streets. The sculpture created by Salvador Dalí symbolises the passing of time. The crown on the clock is the artist’s representation of the dominion of time over humanity.
Another interesting spot is just behind this piece of art: the Paris Bridge, with the famous Andorra la Vella letters that light up at night. It is one of the most Instagrammable places in the capital. Many families and couples stop in front of the sculpture to have their photo taken with the sign in the background.

A stroll through a fairytale village in Sant Julià

Auvinyá is a small village of “relatively” new construction, resulting from a private initiative. It is an urbanisation recreated as a small medieval village built with wood, stone and slate, with details that will transport you back to this period. The Casa Auvinyà vineyards are also located here, famous for the production of their high altitude wine, which you can also visit (for a fee).
There is still more… Now that you are in this part of Sant Julià, follow the road to La Rabassa and reach the Juberri gardens. Another magical place where art and nature merge. You’ll be amazed by the sculptures of animals, famous monuments of great cities and mythological beings scattered throughout the area.

A cup of tea in the mountains

It sounds like a great plan, but this is another sculpture . If you’re a fan of Andorra, you’re sure to know it: it’s the famous “Storm in a teacup” that you can see at Coll de la Botella, near Pal. A large metal structure that recreates a cup on a giant plate. To get there you will pass through Pal, another mountain village where it is well worth making a stop and strolling through its streets. If you’re travelling with children, don’t miss the route through the “Forest of the Menairons”, where these magical creatures live. These three visits are no problem for you and your four-legged companion.

Art in the middle of nature

Another sculpture that you are sure to be familiar with. It is located in the Arcalís ski resort at an altitude of 2,155 metres and is called “Punto sublime” (Sublime Point). The way it is inclined, it looks as if this giant “O” has to roll down the side of the mountain. You can combine this visit with the solar viewpoint and it is also the starting point for mountain routes, such as the Tristaina lakes. All of them, routes to share with your four-legged friend and suitable for children too.

An authentic mediaeval bridge

Another of Andorra’s monuments is the Margineda Bridge. Built in the 15th century, it is the only one of its kind still standing in the country: 33 metres long and with a single arch of nine and a half metres. It is located on the old royal road that leads to Andorra la Vella from Sant Julià and across the Valira River. You can get there on foot from the capital or by car.

These are some of Andorra’s outdoor sculptures and monuments, but there are many more. As most of the routes are pet-friendly, you can enjoy them with your dog.
Have you already chosen which one do you prefer?

escapada con niños

The Best Mother’s Day Gift: A Family Getaway

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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.

esqiuar en primavera

The last skiing moments of the season: ski in spring in Andorra

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The ski season isn’t over yet! This year it runs until 16 April, so there’s still time to come skiing in spring. The last months of the season are characterised by higher temperatures, longer and sunnier days, so you’ll have to adapt to the conditions. To continue enjoying the slopes until the last day we give you some tips that we hope you will find useful. It is also important that you plan your getaway well and check the weather before leaving home.

How to ski in spring

To enjoy the snow in April and March you have to bear in mind that the temperatures are higher and the sunshine is more intense than in the first months of the season. As the spring season begins, the snow melt increases and the snow becomes softer. So you will have to adapt to the weather for spring skiing. The watchword is to get up early and take advantage of the early hours of the day when the snow is in the best condition. In the morning the snow is firmer and as the day progresses it becomes softer. Start on the lower slopes and those that are sunnier, and leave the higher slopes and those that get less sun for later in the day, as the snow is better preserved there.

Dress in layers for spring skiing

Even though it’s getting warmer, don’t get overconfident… remember you’re in the mountains. The weather changes frequently, the temperature varies during the day and you’re at a higher altitude. If you want to ski in spring or enjoy snow activities, it’s best to dress in layers. In the morning it is much colder, but by midday the sun is warmer. So ideally you should be able to take off pieces of clothing to avoid sweating.

– On the body

Choose a lighter outer jacket as well as a mid-layer. Zipped clothes help to ventilate and help you to last longer in them. For the close-to-body area, wear a moisture-wicking garment to avoid sweating.

– On the head and neck

Wearing a helmet is compulsory, but a hat or ski straps may not be necessary. For the neck you can wear a lighter garment that will still protect you from the cold in the early hours of the morning and that you can keep in your pocket when it gets warmer.

– Goggles

Of course, goggles are essential all season and even more so in these months when the sun reflects much more on the snow.

– Gloves

Although the thermometer starts to rise, don’t leave them at home, because they also protect you from the sun. If you prefer, you can choose thinner gloves that will make you sweat less.

Els Llacs and ski pass offer

You’ll love coming skiing in spring, and you’ll see that you’ll get a better price than at other times of the season… And even more if you take advantage of our offer with accommodation and ski pass in Grandvalira 😉. You are guaranteed a 10% discount if you book through our website.

So now that you know what it’s like to ski in spring in Andorra, all you need to do is choose your flat and book with the ski pass.

apartamentos con perro

Andorra with a dog at Easter Week

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Don’t leave anyone at home this Easter! Our flats in Bordes d’Envalira are spacious and pet-friendly so you can stay comfortably with your pet as one of the family. 
In April, the days are usually sunny and the temperatures are pleasant. So we invite you to discover some of the hiking routes to enjoy with your dog this long weekend and to rest in the most relaxed way at Els Llacs Mountain Apartments. 
Let’s go with the routes! They are very easy itineraries that you can do with a small dog or even if you are travelling with a senior dog.

 

Walks through beautiful landscapes with your dog 

For this occasion we recommend the Camí de les Pardines, located in Encamp, which goes from Els Cortals to Engolasters lake. It is a gravel path of approximately 3.5 kilometres at an altitude of 1,700 metres with views of the village of Encamp. Access is easy both from Els Cortals d’Encamp and from Engolasters lake. Along the way you will come across a botanical garden and a small waterfall, as well as being able to see an old coal bunker. Your pet will have a great time outdoors enjoying nature.

 

A path in Andorra la Vella

This route is also very easy to access, suitable for the whole family and for your dog. The Rec de Solà is in Andorra la Vella at the foot of the Pico del Carroi. It is a cobbled path that follows a small irrigation stream with views of the towns of Andorra la Vella and Escaldes. It is practically flat with a distance of about 3 kilometres, ideal to do in spring in the middle of the day to enjoy the sun and a relaxing walk with your pet. The path also has a small picnic area where you can stop for a snack. 

 

The Camí de les Fonts in Engolasters

Another route to do with your pet is the fountain trail in Engolasters, in Escaldes. This is an easy route that you can enjoy at this time of year. You will walk through the forest and the route has only a slight slope. Halfway along the route there is a viewpoint with spectacular views of the valley and the church of Sant Miquel d’Engolasters. On this circuit your pet will have a great time walking in nature.
Bonus: when you reach the end of the path, if the day is fine and you feel like walking a little further, you can start the ascent to the Coll Jovell, with views over the Madriu Valley. When you get there, you can return along the same path or, after about 50 metres on the left, take the Costa de l’Avet path to the picnic area and the Closa fountain. From there, you can take the forest track that will take you to the road (where you will come across a sculpture) where you will turn left to go to the Engolasters huts. At this point, you should take the stone path that passes between the huts and crosses the forest until you reach a crossroads. Take the one on the right, indicated by yellow circles, until you reach the road. After going down a few metres, you will come to the Camí del Cortalet, on the left hand side. A wide path with little slope that will take you back to the Camí de les Fonts. 

Travelling with your dog to Andorra 

To come to Andorra with your dog you must comply with the following requirements: 
– They must be identified with a chip. 
– Be vaccinated against rabies. 
– Have the pet passport duly signed and stamped. 

Flats to stay with your dog 

Enjoy the Easter long weekend in Andorra with your pet in complete comfort. At Els Llacs Mountain Apartments we are pet friendly so you won’t leave any member of the family at home.  

actividades après-ski

Make the most of the Easter long weekend with children

nature in Andorra,  ski and winter sports,  Uncategorized,  with childrenPosted on

This Easter you are not going to want to miss anything that’s going on in Andorra.
During the day: you won’t run out of Grandvalira Resorts slopes skiing or snowboarding with your children, or on your own while they learn to ski. When the slopes close: the fun continues! Andorra offers a wide range of après-ski activities to suit all tastes. You can make the most of the snow from morning to night, test yourself on ice, enjoy endless afternoons in a spa with the whole family or visit the chocolate factory in La Massana.
This Easter you will spend a crazy long weekend with your children!

Snowtubbing for the first time in Pas de la Casa

On 28 January Grandvalira opened the longest snow tubing slope in Europe. It can reach 60 km/hour and has a length of 350 metres, with turns and two tunnels that go under the slope, to make the experience much more exciting. The Easter long weekend is an excellent opportunity to try it out and let off some adrenaline with the family. It is suitable for children from 6 years old. The day pass and multi-day Andorra Pass include 1 free descent per pass, as well as the NordPass from 4 days (in all modalities except for children under 6 years old).

Palau de Gel après-ski activities

Have fun on ice at the Olympic ice rink in Canillo. Challenge your children to a go-kart race on ice or put on some skates and enjoy some skating time. The rink is indoor and the Palau de Gel offers other services such as a swimming pool, climbing wall, tennis and squash courts. It is located in the village of Canillo, just 15 minutes by car from the apartaments.

Wellness and spas for children

One of the most traditional après-ski activities in Andorra is to finish in the spa after a day of skiing. Without leaving the flats you can relax in our spa (at no extra charge) and take a bath in the jacuzzi with mountain views or relax in the sauna.
You can also venture out to discover the thermal lagoons of the Caldea Thermoludic with your family. And if you go with children from 3 to 8 years old, they can access Likids, the children-only spa of the most famous thermal centre in the country.
We recommend you book in advance to make sure you get a place.

Après-ski continues in the snow

If you like to enjoy the snow from morning to night, discover the forest under the moonlight on a snowmobile. The experience takes place in the Grau Roig sector of Grandvalira, which is very close to Els Llacs Mountain Apartments. Can you imagine exploring the forest at night on a snowmobile? The activity is suitable for children and young people, although those aged 6 to 17 must be accompanied by an adult.

Visit to the chocolate factory

And if you’ve come this far, you’re in for a very sweet surprise: Xocland, the chocolate factory in La Massana. Here you will discover how the cocoa beans are processed, following the whole process, and at the end of the visit you will have the chance to taste the chocolate. There are delicacies to suit all tastes, from dark chocolate with 90% cocoa to white and milk chocolate. They also have a wide variety of products such as chocolates, bars, pralines and their speciality, xoca: a combination of various chocolates with biscuits, fruit and other ingredients.
This activity is sure to be a hit with the youngest members of the household. The chocolate factory schedules visits on Saturday afternoons.

With these après-ski activities you won’t be able to resist coming to enjoy Easter in Andorra. Book your accommodation.

actividades de invierno

Snow activities for the whole family in Grandvalira Resorts

with children,  nature in Andorra,  ski and winter sportsPosted on

Andorra is the perfect destination for skiing, but also for enjoying the snow in many different ways. If you love skiing or snowboarding, it’s perfect because you can combine your passion with many other activities. If this is not the case, don’t worry, because you can also have fun in the snow without getting on a board. 
In this blog we tell you about some of the winter activities to do with the family in the different resorts of Grandvalira Resorts.

Mon(t) Magic in Canillo 

This children’s circuit, located in the Canillo sector of Grandvalira, is the ideal place for the little ones and where the older ones can also join them in some winter activities. It is easily accessible by the Canillo cable car or you can get there on skis.

Get your adrenaline pumping on the Tyrolean traverse

Experience the sensation of flying on the Grandvalira zip line, 40 metres above the ground, over a distance of 550 metres. Fly over the Forn lake, surrounded by nature, in seated, stretched or tandem mode with your child. 

Slide down the Magic Gliss with the family 

A giant slide located outdoors in the middle of nature awaits you. It is 555 metres down and 180 metres up. You can go down it at up to 40 km/h.

Excursions to suit all tastes 

Among the most popular winter activities are trips to the snow to discover the forests and the most unusual landscapes of the seasons. Near Els Llacs Mountain Apartments, in the Grau Roig adventure centre, you’ll find snowshoeing excursions on snowy trails up to icy lakes with a guide. You can also explore the Moretó forest on a snowmobile and… why not, sign up for this adventure at night. Finally, go deep into the white landscapes enjoying an excursion on a dog sled, driving the mushing or as a passenger, an experience that will stay with you forever!

Winter activities also in Pal Arinsal 

This time, head to the other valley to discover the resort of Pal Arinsal and its wide range of activities. You’ll love going sledging with your children. Pal offers two slopes with conveyor belts so you can go up comfortably and more quickly to enjoy the descent. Next to the sledging track you will find another of the most popular activities: the Big Airbag. You can test yourself by jumping from 3 different heights on a giant mattress. Finally, if you go with children aged 14 and over, you can try the Moonbikes and go on an excursion on these electric motorbikes that offer a new way of enjoying winter activities.

What’s coming up: Snowtubbing by DOTS in Pas de la Casa

This season will see the premiere of this activity where fun and laughter are guaranteed. Snowtubbing will be located in Pas de la Casa where you will be able to slide along 350 metres and where you will be able to reach 60 km/h (it will be the longest tubing slope in Europe). It is scheduled to open during the season and will be available in the afternoon when the slopes are closed. It can also be enjoyed in summer. 

Els Llacs Mountain Apartment

We assure you that you won’t get bored here, as you have the possibility to choose different winter activities every day of the week if you want. We assure you the best rest in one of our holiday flats with capacity for up to 11 people. Ideal for a holiday or a family getaway. What’s more, you won’t have to leave anyone at home because we are also Pet Friendly and your pets are also welcome. 

So all you need to do is choose your flat in Bordes de Envalira and book your accommodation at the foot of Grandvalira.

valle-del-madriu

Discover the Madriu Valley of Andorra

nature in Andorra,  hiking, mountain and summer sports,  with childrenPosted on

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.