Llacs

An alternative autumn getaway in Andorra

Autumn is here! Still no plans to enjoy a well-deserved getaway? We suggest an alternative route around Andorra, ideal for getting away from the crowds and discovering the lesser-known corners of our 7 parishes.

1. The hidden secrets of Canillo

The parish of Canillo is where the Els Llacs tourist flats are located. The first route is to discover the Toll Bullidor, a natural waterfall near Meritxell, along an easily accessible hiking route. Another interesting place to discover during an autumn long weekend is the motorbike museum, located in the Canillo cable car. It has a permanent exhibition of more than 120 pieces, some of which are unique and the oldest is from 1896. Without a doubt, two activities you can do with your children.

2. Shopping in Encamp

We continue on to the next parish: Encamp. Here we suggest you go shopping in Pas de la Casa. If you don’t know it because you always stay in the centre, the location of our holiday flats is a good excuse to visit this village on the border with France. It is closer than Escaldes and Andorra la Vella and it is an open-air shopping centre with all the products you can imagine at the foot of the slopes. What’s more, if you access Pas de la Casa via the Envalira pass, you’ll enjoy incredible views and landscapes.

3. Ordino in autumn is even more beautiful

You probably already know the Ordino iron route, but we can’t fail to recommend it because it is especially beautiful in autumn. In addition to the sculptures, the borda and the Romanesque bridge along the route, it’s worth it for the scenery, from where you can admire the changing colours of the season to perfection. The itinerary is very accessible, so set aside an afternoon to visit it.

4. A very sweet visit to La Massana

In La Massana you will find the only chocolate factory in Andorra: Xocland, where this delicious food is produced and processed in the factory located in the centre of the village. This is a visit not to be missed for lovers of chocolate in all its forms, as you’ll see the entire production process from bean to finished product up close. Of course, it is also a great place to go with the little ones in the house.

5. Autumn is ideal for rediscovering the capital city

We are now heading down towards the central parishes of the Principality. We suggest a very simple panoramic route on the Rec del Solà, an itinerary at the foot of the Carroi peak from where you can see the whole of Andorra la Vella and Escaldes-Engordany. At the end of the route you can go down to the historic centre of the capital to have a drink and get your strength back.

6. Sant Julià de Lòria, the lesser-known one

In this parish you will find the Juberri gardens, a peculiar space where you will see a multitude of giant sculptures. Mostly of animals, but you will also see fountains and miniature models of Romanesque churches in the country. It is very well kept and the views over the valley are spectacular.

7. The Escaldes hot springs

We’re sure you’ve heard of Caldea many times: but do you know about its Private Spa? It is a space for private use with a maximum capacity for 4 people with a jacuzzi, sauna, contrast showers and relaxation areas, where you can also enjoy a couple’s massage. This plan is only for couples and we recommend that you make a reservation beforehand. These different and original things to do in Andorra in autumn are ideal to combine with the peace and quiet of staying at Els Llacs Mountain Apartments. Check the flat you like the most and book it with the 3×2 offer, which is also available for the long weekends in October, you stay 3 nights and only pay for 2!
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Discover 3 hiking routes in Andorra

Make the most of your summer holidays in Andorra. Very close to the Els Llacs Mountain Apartments you have an endless number of routes to enjoy hiking. Some are easier and others not so easy… but there are options for all levels, to do with children or for the more experienced hikers.  One thing is clear, you will discover the exuberant nature of the Andorran mountains and breathe fresh air while you exercise. So, for you to have a great time this summer, here are 3 hiking routes in Andorra. And as an extra, 1 cycling route, for those of you who love cycling.

A fun route for the whole family

We start with a very picturesque hiking track in Andorra, close to the flats and ideal to do with children: the Gall path. You can start in Canillo, at the Telecabina car park, or in the opposite direction from Soldeu. The itinerary is signposted and there are signs explaining the fauna and flora that you will come across, as well as the views. The path runs parallel to main road 2, so you can take it or leave it at various points. It also has several bridges (one of them Tibetan), a tunnel and a group of bordas (typical Andorran houses), elements that enrich the route. It owes its name to the fact that it is the habitat of capercaillies; in fact, the signposts are made of wood and marked with a red cockerel. It is a fun and accessible route for children.

Discovering the new Tristaina solar viewpoint

This summer Andorra has opened a new viewpoint in Arcalís. What makes it so special is its originality, as it is a circular structure on top of the Peyreguils peak at 2,701 metres. It is also a sundial in homage to the sundial mountain of Arcalís. From here the views are impressive over the Tristaina lakes, the rest of the peaks and the whole valley.

The excursion on foot (about 15 minutes) is well worth it, for the scenery and the contact with nature. But also to put the icing on the cake at the end of the walking route in Andorra by being able to contemplate the landscape from the new viewpoint. To get there you have to go to the Ordino-Arcalís resort. The route starts at the Coma car park near the chairlift, heading towards Creussans lake and continues to Creussans pass, ending at Peyreguils peak. If you wish, you can go up by cable car and chairlift (the ride takes 5 and 15 minutes respectively), finishing with a walk of another 15 minutes.

High altitude trekking route in Andorra

Finally, we leave you with a more difficult route that will take you to the highest peak in the Principality: Comapedrosa, at 2942 metres. The route requires a good physical preparation as it covers 14 kilometres (outward and return), with a difference in altitude of 1,300 metres and some more complicated sections. The ascent starts in Arinsal, crossing the Comapedrosa Valleys nature reserve, a protected natural area since 2006. Along the way you will be able to appreciate the changes in vegetation, passing through red and black pine forests, meadows and some lakes. 

Extra: a cycle touring route for road bikes

If you like trekking in Andorra but you’re more of a fan of cycling, you’re also in the right place. You can choose from 21 cycling routes categorised by level of difficulty. The one we’ll tell you about today is medium level: it starts in the village of Canillo and ends in El Forn, near the Grandvalira adventure activity centre. It is 5.2 kilometres long and has an average gradient of 388 metres. It is undoubtedly a good alternative to continue discovering new landscapes while cycling.

For you to enjoy the experience even more this summer at Els Llacs Mountain Apartments you have the bike included in your stay. Check our offers and choose the one you prefer, with road bike, MTB or e-bike.

These are some of the hiking routes you can do in summer in Andorra, although there are many more to do on foot or by bike. Do not hesitate to contact us to make your reservation or ask for more information. 

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Make the most of your summer holidays in Andorra

How about escaping from overcrowded destinations and the high temperatures of August this year? We suggest a summer holiday in Andorra with accommodation at Els Llacs Mountain Apartments at almost 2,000 metres above sea level. Here, the first thing you’ll see when you wake up is the green of the mountains and hear the birds singing. The temperatures are milder, you’ll breathe fresh air and you’ll be in direct contact with nature. Sounds good, doesn’t it? Well, read on and discover a selection of plans that we have made for you, to make this holiday unforgettable.

 

Discover lakes and other unknown landscapes 

If you’re a mountain lover, you’re probably waiting for this time of year to grab your rucksack, put on your boots and set off on new trails. Hiking is the ideal sport in summer in Andorra.  Pure nature, fresh air and wonderful spots to discover in our country. There are mountain hikes to suit all tastes and levels: you can decide to climb the highest peak or walk to a more accessible lake. Did you know that there are more than 100 lakes hidden in our mountains?

 

The summer in Andorra is perfect for cycling

If you’re more of a cyclist than a walker, you can’t miss one of the 20 road cycling routes that run throughout the country. Or you can also find mountain bike or e-bike routes.

At Els Llacs mountain tourist flats we have a new service with bike rental and you can even book an offer with accommodation and road bike, mountain bike or electric bike, so you have everything at hand. In our flats we have a cycling room so that you can keep “your girl” safely and without taking up space in the appartment. 

 

Have fun with your children in the adventure parks

These are the perfect option for the whole family to have a great time this summer in Andorra. You can climb on aerial rope parks, go down a giant slide, slide down zip lines, drive a go-kart, discover nature in a fun way… And much more! All you have to do is choose between the Mon(t) Magic Family Park in Grandvalira, the Mountain Park in Vallnord or Naturland.   Or choose all of them, which is sure to be the option your children like the most. For once, listen to them! 😉

 

Music and cool evenings for all tastes

This summer in Andorra the events are back, but obviously in a controlled way and with all the safety measures in place. 

You’re still in time to enjoy the last two concerts of Andorra Mountain Music, the open-air music festival that has brought together big names from the international scene. On 24 July you can see the band Texas and on 31 July David Guetta live.

Summer nights in the museums are also back with visits, themed routes and concerts.

Other events such as local festivals and street music will also be announced and, as we said, with all the anticovid protocols up to date.

 

Shopping and strolling through the city centre

The summer sales have also arrived in Andorra and until 12 September you can hunt for the best bargains. Find the best prices on your favourite items and discover the new season’s trends in the shopping centres of Andorra la Vella, Escaldes and Pas de la Casa. And if you get tired of strolling around, get your strength back with an ice cream or a granita. 

 

Incredible gastronomy awaits you

Make the most of your summer holidays in Andorra to enjoy the amazing Andorran gastronomy and choose from the multitude of restaurants the country has to offer. At just 2km from Els Llacs Mountain Aapartments, Soldeu has a good gastronomic offer and you will be able to taste the best oriental cuisine at Kao Soldeu (in the hotel Park Piolets, part of our chain).

 

You’ll sleep soundly

As we told you, we are located at almost 2,000 metres above sea level. Temperatures drop at night, so we can assure you that you’ll be able to sleep without feeling too hot. If you feel a bit warm, all you have to do is open the window slightly and let the cool Pyrenean air flow in.

Els Llacs holiday flats are the best option to enjoy an ideal and comfortable accommodation for the whole family. Book your flat and enjoy all the services.

 

There is so much to do in summer in Andorra that we can’t stop telling you everything, so follow our blog and find a million ideas to enjoy your holidays.

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Safe tips for travelling with a pet in summer

Travelling with a pet doesn’t have to be complicated if you plan well. If, like most of our customers, you are also travelling by car, here are a few simple recommendations to ensure you have a happy journey.

 

Tips for travelling by car with a pet this summer

If you want to enjoy yourself from the first minute, follow these tips. Travelling by car with your pet will be much easier and you will start your long-awaited summer holidays in the best way possible:

– Before setting off on your journey you will have to decide how you want your pet to travel, as for safety reasons it cannot travel loose in the car. You can choose whether you want to harness your pet (the two-hook harness is safer) or put it in a carrier.  If you have enough space, you can also place a separator grid between the boot and the rear seats of your vehicle.

– During the journey, it is important that your pet can be hydrated frequently, especially in summer when temperatures are higher.   

– It is advisable to stop every two hours so that your four-legged friend can have a break from the car and take a walk. It is also good for the rest of your travel companions, to clear your minds and get some fresh air.

Plan your trip well and look for the best service areas to ensure quality stops. Prioritise those with pet-friendly areas, restaurants, open spaces or playgrounds if you are travelling with children.

– Inside the car you can put the air conditioning on, but always keep your pet away from the exits so that it doesn’t catch a cold.

– To avoid motion sickness and unpleasant situations, it is advisable for your pet to eat two hours before the trip so that it is fasting during the journey.

– If your dog is travelling by car for the first time or is not very used to the car, you should help it to adapt a few days beforehand by travelling a few shorter distances. 

– Don’t forget your pet’s documentation because you will need to have it when you travel. Here are the requirements you need to take into account to bring your pet to Andorra.

 

What does your pet need to come to Andorra?

Pets (dogs, cats and ferrets) from the European Union must be identified with a microchip, be vaccinated against rabies and have a pet passport. If they are from outside the European Union, they must also have a certificate of good health and pass customs control on arrival in Andorra. You can obtain all the information directly from the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Andorran Government.

 

At Els Llacs Mountain Apartments we are pet friendly!

We love to see you arrive one more summer accompanied by your four-legged friend. For us it is very important that all members of the family can enjoy their holidays. For this reason, pets are welcome at Els Llacs. Our holiday flats are spacious and comfortable so that everyone has their own space.

We are in Bordes de Envalira, very close to Grandvalira, where you can make the most of the activities on offer this summer. The location is ideal for enjoying walks in the mountains and going out to play with your dog in the open air, surrounded by nature.

So if you are thinking of travelling with your pet this summer, this is the best alternative. You just have to let us know when you make your booking and follow these rules of coexistence during your holidays at Els Llacs flats.

 

And you, do you have any other advice for our customers who travel by car with a pet in summer? Leave us a comment so that they can apply it on their next holiday and contact us if you need more information about our accommodations.

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Enjoy a holiday apartaments in Andorra with 4* hotel services

At Els Llacs you will find everything you need for a perfect summer holiday. You’ll enjoy accommodation in Andorra that has more than what other tourist accommodation in its category usually offers. Apart from having an unbeatable location to enjoy the mountain all year round, you have the services of the 4-star Park Piolets hotel within your reach, which you will be able to enjoy again from 25 June.

Read on and find out all about it here!

 

Catering for lunches and dinners

If you don’t want to depend on timetables for your meals, the best thing to do is to sleep in flats on your holidays in Andorra, as you have more freedom, but that doesn’t mean you have to cook every day! For this reason you can order the catering dishes, which we prepare at the Park Piolets hotel and bring them to you so that you don’t have to travel.

 

Spa with mountain views

Take a moment to bathe in the Park Spa Mountain Wellness Club, ideal for relaxing while you contemplate the views. Accompany the water circuit with a relaxing massage to get rid of the stress of everyday life or to recover from a day of mountain activities.

The hotel is located in Soldeu, just 2 minutes by car from the mountain flats, and in addition to the spa, it also has a hairdressing and beauty centre. At the Green Salon you can change your look or get a pedicure to show off your feet in summer.

 

Eat at the Kao Soldeu and enjoy the terrace

Because staying in apartments in Andorra in the middle of nature is not incompatible with having the best gastronomic experiences. We suggest you try the exotic flavours of the Kao Soldeu restaurant. It offers a menu with dishes of haute Chinese cuisine where you will find its famous Peking duck, ideal to accompany other recipes based on rice, noodles or Dim Sums. You will love it!

In the new Moët Terrace you can have a quiet drink while you sunbathe and enjoy the high altitude terracing. 😉

 

Apartaments in Andorra with all the services

At Els Llacs Moutain Apartments there are also several services for your maximum comfort. We offer you the possibility of buying online all the products you need before your arrival and you will find the shopping in your flat. We take care of the first breakfast of the holidays, we prepare a welcome pack with coffee capsules, toast and jam to make your arrival easier.

In addition, in the same facilities you can also go to the spa or the gym and store your bikes in a storage room.

We are tourist flats with all the services you need for your comfort!

 

Offers to make the most of the summer

Do you love nature, breathing fresh air and the mountains? Then we have the ideal plan to combine with your flats in Andorra. Book our offer with bike rental, you decide how you prefer to pedal: road bike, MTB or electric bike. From Els Llacs you can do countless routes.

And don’t forget that very close to the flats there is the Andorra Mountain Music, the open-air music festival that brings the best names of the current musical line-up.

Check out all the offers here!

 

Hygiene and safety measures

Although the situation is starting to relax, we are not letting our guard down. We are up to date in terms of safety and hygiene protocols to prevent Covid-19, following the regulations imposed by the country’s health authorities.

 

Els Llacs Mountain Apartments are flats in Andorra where you will feel at home because you will lack nothing.

Enjoy your holidays to the full.

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This summer enjoy the best events programme in Andorra

Make a note in your diary of the sporting activities taking place in Andorra this summer. After a year in which most of the open-air events were cancelled, they are now back with all the safety guarantees.

Here are the most important ones so that you don’t forget any of them.

 

Cycling competitions are back

With 21 mountain passes, the Principality is the perfect setting for lovers of two wheels and top-level sporting activities are already planned.

The Tour de France: Andorra will be the last part of a stage on 11 July. It will enter via Pas de la Casa and descend via Port d’Envalira. When they arrive at Bordes d’Envalira you will be able to see the riders pass in front of the door of the appartments. Then they will head for the other valley, passing first through Soldeu, Canillo and Encamp. They will go up the Beixalís pass and back down through Anyós until they reach the finish line in Andorra la Vella. After a rest day, they will resume the competition from Pas de la Casa towards France.

Andorra 21 ports: if you are a fan of road cycling, you will have the opportunity to take part in this new competition, from 22 to 26 June. It is divided into 3 stages and is a good way to get to know the landscapes of Andorra.

The Multissegur Volta als Ports: this is one of the most eagerly awaited sporting activities for cycling enthusiasts and has been held for more than 40 years. This year it has different routes starting from La Massana and finishing in Andorra la Vella.

The Andorra MTB Classic-Pyrenees: this is a mountain bike competition in pairs which will be divided into 4 stages and will take place from 30/06 to 03/07.

– La Mussara Andorra: this is also a MTB race that will take place in Naturlandia on 1 August.

 

More sports activities in Andorra

The environment, the mountains and nature are the ideal setting for all kinds of outdoor events.

Spartan Race: the obstacle race returns to Andorra on 12 and 13 June. It has 4 courses of 5, 10, 21 and 50 kilometres and different levels of difficulty.  There will also be a circuit for children.

Trail 100 Andorra-Pyrenees: this is the perfect mountain race for trail running lovers. There are 4 different distances starting and finishing in Ordino. There is also an easy 7.5 km course so that everyone can take part. From 24th to 27th June.

– Iron Man 70.3: this summer a prestigious triathlon is added to the calendar of sporting activities in Andorra. The swimming race will take place in the Engolasters lake, the road bike race will cover 90.1 km from the lake to Andorra la Vella where the 21.1 km foot race will take place. It is scheduled for Sunday 4 July.

The Comapedrosa Skyrace: this is one of the most emblematic races that runs through incredible landscapes until it reaches the top of the country at 2,942 metres. This year it will be held on 25 July.

 

Don’t let the culture stop!

Combine sporting activities in Andorra with concerts, festivals, exhibitions and everything in the open air, surrounded by nature.

– Very close to the Els Llacs apartaments, in Soldeu, you will be able to enjoy the best music in the Andorra Mountain Music. A festival that offers open-air concerts every Saturday from 26 June to 31 July. Discover it here!

– Don’t miss the L’Andart biennial.  On the lake of Engolasters and the surrounding area, in the heart of nature, there is an exhibition of works of art during the months of July and August. 

– In June you will also enjoy the Jambo Street Music in the streets of the capital.

 

This summer you will once again be thrilled by the great sporting and cultural events that await you in Andorra. Book your accommodation at Els Llacs Mountain Apartments and you’ll have the perfect getaway.

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In summer, book your holiday accommodation with bike and discover cycling in Andorra

This summer, come and discover Andorra by bike!

To make sure you have everything at hand and well planned, we have special offers that include bike rental for your entire stay at the Els Llacs Mountain Apartments. You just have to decide how you want to enjoy the best cycling routes in Andorra: on a road bike, mountain bike or electric bike.

If riding is your thing, you’ll have a great time this summer 😉. 

 

Mountain trails and MTB tracks await you.

You’ll enjoy mountain biking in all its variations. Whether you’re a lover of mountain trails or downhill tracks. You’ll discover incredible landscapes while putting yourself to the test.

If you’re an adrenaline junkie, we recommend Vallnord, where you’ll find one of the most spectacular mountain bike parks in the Pyrenees. It has 29 circuits of different levels and modalities, including: enduro, Pump Track, Cross Country, Wood Park and Four Cross. There are a total of 40 kilometres for mountain biking and also for beginners. It also has 3 children’s rides so that you can share your favourite hobby with your children.

 

Enjoy the best cycling in Andorra

Cycle through the country’s most legendary mountain passes – in total you’ll be able to climb up to 21! Dare to emulate the great cyclists of the Tour de France or the Vuelta a España by following the stages of these sporting events. Can you imagine climbing the Envalira pass and then going on to the Coll de la gallina at the other end of the country? If you are a lover of this sport, you know exactly what we are talking about. The roads are perfectly asphalted and signposted. They are ready to welcome you with your road bike.

We suggest a cycling route in Andorra which, apart from being one of the best known by cyclists, is also very beautiful. It starts in Canillo, the same valley where the appartments are located, on the road to Montaup and takes you to the Coll de Ordino. You will be at the foot of the third highest peak in the Principality: the Casamanya, and you can also make a quick stop at the Coll del Quer viewpoint.

 

Make the most of your holidays by riding an electric bike

If you have already discovered this activity, we also offer it to you with your stay in the holiday flats Els Llacs.

You can enjoy beautiful mountain trails or go to the Vallnord Bike Park where you will find circuits suitable for e-bikes and discover new landscapes. The circuits are signposted and go from Pla de la Caubella in the ski resort of Pal to Coll de la Botella.

The routes are suitable for all levels and are signposted.

 

Bike Friendly Apartments with the best location

We are ready to welcome you with everything you need for your cycling holidays. At the Els Llacs Mountain Apartments you’ll find a guarded room with a camera where you can store your bikes safely.

And when you finish your day on two wheels you can enjoy a bath in the outdoor jacuzzi of our spa to recover.

 

Covid cancellation refund guarantee

You can book with complete peace of mind as we have adapted our cancellation and modification conditions to the current situation. We promise to refund your money if the cancellation is for Covid-19 related reasons.

 

When you think of a summer holiday, do mountains, nature and fresh air come to mind? Then you are in the perfect place. Els Llacs Mountain Apartments are very close to you and we can also include bike rental in your stay to make your trip more comfortable. Choose the cycling offer in Andorra that best suits you.

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Andorra: a safe destination to travel this spring

It’s confirmed! You can now travel to Andorra without any problems. It is now possible to travel between Spain and the Principality without restrictions. So pack your suitcase and come and breathe fresh air and enjoy nature in a safe destination.

 

Safe flats in the heart of nature

Break your routine in the city and enjoy a well-deserved break with your family or partner. If you want to enjoy more privacy and comfort for you and your loved ones, Els Llacs Mountain Apartments Holiday Flats are ideal, as everyone will have their own space. You can choose the one that best suits your trip and with maximum comfort. All the apartaments are fully equipped and carefully decorated in the style of a mountain chalet.

 

With all the services to make your stay easier

You won’t have to depend on timetables for lunch or dinner, and you will have limited contact outside your centre, if you prefer so. However, to ensure that you don’t have to worry about anything, we also have unique services that make us different from other holiday flats. Before your arrival you will be able to do your shopping online in order to have it on your arrival and you will find a welcome pack with everything you need for the first day of breakfast. 

We also welcome pets, as this is a pet friendly accommodation.

As we said, the Els Llacs apartaments are different and have more services to make your stay more enjoyable. You can relax in the spa with an outdoor jacuzzi and the children can enjoy the indoor play area.

So, this will be your home in Andorra, while you enjoy a total nature getaway. When you open the windows, wherever you look you will be met with the green of the mountains and the singing of the birds.

 

With all anti-covid security measures

Since the beginning of the pandemic, we have been actively working to adapt to this new situation. Together with specialised companies and following all governmental indications, we have adopted all the necessary anti-covid protocols. You can find them here.

 

Andorra: it is a safe destination with no mobility restrictions.

The country also respects all the security measures required to make it a safe destination. Mobility within Andorra is not restricted, so you can move around freely without curfew. You can eat out and enjoy good food, go shopping or visit museums and other tourist activities because everything is open. However, you will also have to plan ahead and make a reservation because the capacity has been reduced in order to keep a safe distance to comply with security measures.

 

The best outdoor activities are in Andorra

We are located in a privileged place for all kinds of outdoor activities. Whether you love walking in the mountains or cycling.

Very close to the apartaments you have spots as impressive as the Incles Valley. Here you can start many high mountain hikes or more easily accessible hikes that lead to peaks, lakes and mountain huts. If you get to Soldeu you can discover the Gall Way. A mountain trail suitable for everyone with excellent signposting. It will take you to Canillo, passing by such curious places as a Tibetan bridge, while you discover the flora of the country. If you take the path from Soldeu to Canillo, it’s all downhill (and therefore much easier). When you get to Canillo, you can have a drink in the village and take the bus back to Soldeu or the apartments.

As a novelty, from May onwards, you will be able to book your stay with a bike. And if you are one of those who prefer to bring your own bike, we have bike lockers for you to store it. Come and explore Andorra through its mountain passes and discover the best cycling routes on road bikes. And also to enjoy the mountain trails with your mountain bike.

 

Andorra is a safe destination where you can come with complete peace of mind and stay at Els Llacs Mountain Apartments close to nature for lots of adventures.

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10 Spots you can’t miss in Andorra (Part 2)

The second part of our ranking of the 10 places in Andorra that you have to see on some of your visits is here. Take note: you can visit them at any time of the year and combine them as you like.

We leave you the link to the first article with the first part of these wonderful places so that you have them all.

 

6) Ordino

We’ re cheating a bit here… because we suggest a whole town and the other mountain villages that form part of this parish. We recommend that you take the whole afternoon to visit Ordino first, its old quarter and the Casa de Areny Plandolit museum. Afterwards, get in the car and continue on to Arcalís, passing through Arans, La Cortinada and Llorts. On the way, don’t forget to take a walk along the Route of Iron and through the Sorteny Valley Nature Reserve. Two ideal spots in Andorra for getting to know nature at close quarters and going on beautiful excursions.

 

7) The Meritxell Sanctuary (Canillo)

Both the new sanctuary and the first hermitage are a must-see. It is one of those places in Andorra that has it all: architecture, history and an exceptional natural enclave are intermingled in this unique “must see”. And no wonder, as the Virgin of Meritxell (patron saint of the country) is to be found in this sanctuary.

It is located between Canillo and Encamp, in the village of the same name. In summer you can take a guided tour of the entire architectural complex to discover its secrets and its legend.

 

8) Engolasters Lake (Escaldes)

Enjoy what Andorra has to offer in its fullness: nature and fresh air. Engolasters Lake is in Escaldes and is easily accessible by car, making it ideal for families. If you want, you can get to Els Cortals de Encamp along the Pardines path, an easy mountain trail with incredible views of the valley. It is also the starting point for many high mountain hikes, if you’re up for it. But if you prefer, you can spend the day by the lake and have a picnic in the middle of nature.

 

9) La Casa de la Vall (Andorra la Vella)

Until 2011 it housed the Andorran parliament. The Casa de la Vall is a typical Andorran family building dating from 1580 and was inhabited until the 18th century, when it became the seat of the Consell General. It is interesting for its architecture, as it preserves a large part of the original building and rooms, but also for the history it treasures within its walls. You can visit it all year round. You’ll find it in the historic centre of the capital, now a bohemian neighbourhood with restaurants and terraces where you can stop to get your strength back.  

 

10) Les Bons (Encamp)

This is an architectural complex from the medieval period located in a strategic point in Encamp, from where you can admire the views over the village. The complex is made up of the remains of a four-storey defence tower, two dovecotes and a Romanesque church. Although guided tours are only available in summer, we recommend you visit this place the rest of the year, to get to know a little of the history and Romanesque art.

 

In Andorra we are open!

These 10 spots are ideal to combine with the other great activities the country has to offer: skiing, gastronomy and shopping.

Since 1 April, Spanish citizens have been able to travel to Andorra without restrictions, in compliance with the safety and hygiene measures imposed to prevent Covid infection. In addition, restaurants and shops are open and there is no curfew.

 

Which of these 10 places in Andorra will you visit first? Tell us in the comments, we’ll read you!

10-places-in-Andorra

10 places you can’t miss in Andorra (Part 1)

Let’s take a look at our ranking of 10 places you can’t miss on your next trip to Andorra. The order does not alter the product, in other words, we haven’t put them in any particular order: we’re just giving you some ideas so you can make the most of your next visit to the country. There are many more, but these are some of the most representative. What they have in common is that you can do them whether you come with your family, your partner or your friends.

 

1) The Roc del Quer (Canillo)

This is undoubtedly one of the attractions that has generated most interest in recent years. I’m sure you’ve heard of it on Instagram or Tik Tok. It is a viewpoint with a 20-metre footbridge that flies over the valley, with a sculpture of a thinker at the end and impressive views of the mountain.

Located in Canillo, in the heart of the Montaup Valley, it is accessible by car from both Canillo and Coll de Ordino. The scenery of this mountain pass is stunning and you will find that it is very popular among cyclists. So if you are a regular of this sport, we challenge you to climb it on your bike. The prize is the magnificent views from this strategic point.

 

2) The Xocland chocolate factory (La Massana)

In La Massana you will find the only chocolate factory in Andorra. Although we are not cocoa producers, we do have the ideal climatic conditions for processing it. You will discover how the best chocolate is produced from cocoa beans coming from tropical countries such as Venezuela and Colombia. You will attend the entire roasting and production process and discover the machinery needed to process and make bars, chocolates and nougats, among other things. An ideal sensory activity for the whole family.

 

3) The Juberri gardens (Sant Julià)

To visit the third of the TOP 10 places on our list in Andorra, you have to go almost to the border with Spain, in Juberri, towards Naturlandia.

Once you get there, you’ll fall in love with this curious and beautiful spot. Find all the animal-inspired sculptures scattered around this contemporary garden, perfectly in harmony with nature. 

 

4) Caldea (Escaldes)

Depending on the time of year you come to Andorra, you’ll be able to do some activities or others. But you can always take a dip in the thermal waters of Caldea whether you come in summer or winter.

The Thermoludic is your spa if you are travelling as a family with children over 5 years old.

If you come as a couple and want a more intimate experience, we suggest you Inúu, Caldea’s spa for adults only, with entrance from 16 years of age. You can also complete your visit with relaxing massages or beauty treatments, as well as lunch or dinner at the thermal centre.

 

5) Santa Coloma

Among the top 10 places in Andorra, you can’t miss a visit to one of the jewels of Romanesque architecture: the church of Santa Coloma. It has the particularity of being one of the oldest in the country and the only one with a round bell tower. You can also see the video-mapping recreation of the frescoes that were torn from the apse of the central nave of the church. Now, after a long journey, the original paintings have returned to the country and are on display in the Columba Centre next door.

 

We are sure you will love these sites and they will make your next visit a top experience. Remember that Els Llacs Apartments are open all year round and you can stay with us.  For now we leave you with 5 of the 10 must-see places in Andorra, in the next post we will tell you more.