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

Culture & Art in Andorra, nature in Andorra, with children 7 de April de 20216 de April de 2021

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!

The best spas in Andorra for your Easter getaway

events in Andorra, with children 17 de March de 202117 de March de 2021

Easter is just around the corner. So that you can make the most of your 4-day getaway, we have prepared a list of the spas in Andorra that you can’t miss.

Can you think of a better plan to relax during these 4 days?

Park Spa Mountain Wellness Club

In Soldeu, very close to our apartaments, you will find the 4-star Park Piolets hotel, which is part of our group of properties. It has a spa with spectacular views of the mountains, which you can access to enjoy its water area and treatments.

The facilities, unbeatable and brand new in 2019, have a water circuit with a swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, hammam, multiple water jets and an outdoor jacuzzi from where you can watch breathtaking sunsets. Both the gym and the hairdressing and beauty centre are also public and you can make an appointment to change your look or get a manicure. To complete the experience and get away from it all, we suggest you to book a massage or treatment from the menu – you won’t regret it!

If you are travelling with children, this is also the perfect plan. The hotel has arranged a special timetable so that families can enjoy the spa with children from birth onwards.

The good weather and the longer days are the perfect excuse to go to the spa. Are you in?

Caldea: one of Andorra’s must-visit spas

Of course, a visit to the thermal centre is a must on your getaway. This Easter, we recommend that you get a ticket to Inúu, the Caldea spa for over 16s. Choose the time of day you want to visit the centre from morning, afternoon or evening and disconnect in the thermal water baths and jacuzzis. You’ve been waiting for your dose of wellness as a couple! Combine it with a massage or beauty treatment and make the most of the experience.

For families there is the Thermoludic, which you can enter with children from 5 years old. A good time to discover the world of thermalism with them (but you’ll have to wait a little longer to visit, as it will be closed at Easter due to the pandemic).

Although Caldea is one of the spas in Andorra that is located right in the centre, it is also surrounded by mountains and the views are still a real attraction.

Appartments with spa

And if that wasn’t enough, at Els Llacs you have the chance to relax without leaving our facilities. Our appartments have a spa overlooking the mountain, super quiet, ideal to include in the route of the spas of Andorra and rest after a day of outdoor activities. There is also a gym so you can keep up with your daily exercise routines – just take the lift to get there!

Enjoy Easter in the open air

Our tour of Andorra’s best spas is 100% compatible with other outdoor activities. With the anti-covid regulations in place, Andorra is a destination you can come to this Easter holiday. Get out of your routine during these 4 days, when the rising temperatures remind us that spring has arrived and invites us to take a walk and enjoy the mountains.

Remember, there is no curfew here and the shops and restaurants are open, of course, complying with all safety regulations to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

If you have enjoyed the list of the best spas in Andorra, choose your accommodation and make your reservation now.

Start crossing off the days on the calendar, it’s not long now 😉.

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

Culture & Art in Andorra, nature in Andorra, with children 5 de March de 20215 de March de 2021

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.

Snow activities you can’t miss this winter

Andorra apartments offers, nature in Andorra, our apartments, pet friendly, ski and winter sports, with children 3 de February de 20212 de February de 2021

In Andorra there are many snow activities that you have to try at least once in your life. That’s why we at Els Llacs Mountain Apartments are offering you 2 offers with activities that you can’t miss out on. It is possible to enjoy the valleys, peaks and snowy landscapes in Grandvalira without having to put on your skis or snowboard, and what’s more, these proposals are very close to us!

Mushing: the winter sensation

From the flats we propose you an offer with nights stay combined with a dog sledding excursion. Feel as if you were in Lapland while you travel through snowy landscapes and pine forests. The dogs, properly trained, will pull the sledge guided by a professional musher. It is an ideal snow activity for the whole family, as there is capacity for a maximum of 2 adults and 2 children. Choose the flat that best suits you and book your offer.

Snowmobiles are a must

A snowmobile tour is ideal to let off some adrenaline while you drive yourself. An ideal snow activity to try this winter or to repeat if you already know it. You can do it as a couple and also with your child if he/she is older than 7 years old, but driving is for people over 18 years old. Let yourself go, control the speed and enjoy the typical Pyrenean landscapes. You can book the pack of nights in flats and snowmobile excursion on our website. You will find this activity very close to the hotel in the Grau Roig sector of Grandvalira, just 2 minutes by car from the accommodation.

Other snow activities

In Andorra you’ll find more alternatives to alpine skiing that you can do this winter. Such as guided snowshoeing excursions or going on your own. If you feel like sliding down the snow, you can do it after ski mountaineering or try cross-country skiing. These activities are perfect for enjoying nature while practising outdoor sports.

Bonus: for the most foodie families

We have an extra proposal to complement the snow activities to enjoy good gastronomy: a stay with dinner at the Winter pop up restaurant Kao Soldeu. It is located in the Park Piolets hotel, in Soldeu, just 2 minutes by car from our mountain flats. Here you can taste the delights of Chinese haute cuisine, including the famous Peking Duck, the restaurant’s star dish. As well as the traditional dim sum and dishes based on rice, noodles, meat and fish, you will love it!

Tourist flats that lack nothing

Our flats are the best option to rest after a day of snow activities. They are very well located, in Bordes de Envalira, between the Grau Roig and Soldeu sectors of Grandvalira. They are comfortable, spacious and very well integrated with the environment, as they are decorated in the style of mountain chalets. In addition, they are 100% equipped to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

They have services that few flats offer such as spa (free), gym and an area for the little ones to have fun. In addition, to make things easier for you, on your arrival you will find a welcome pack for breakfast on the first day and we give you the possibility to do the shopping before your arrival with delivery to the flat.

And if you have a pet, you can bring it with you because we are pet friendly.

If you are planning a getaway in the snow or you want to spend your winter holidays in Andorra, these snow activities are ideal. Don’t hesitate to contact us for advice.

Christmas in Andorra: discover all the activities for this holiday

with children, Culture & Art in Andorra, events in Andorra 16 de December de 202014 de August de 2023

We tell you how Christmas is celebrated in Andorra because, although the situation is not ideal, magic and tradition cannot be missing at this time of year. During this month of December and the beginning of January you will find different Christmas activities, discover them here!

Walk through the illuminated streets

The streets become open stages with different decorations and lights in each parish. Walk around and discover all its hidden corners. In Escaldes there are the imaginary worlds of Christmas, a free walk through the streets of the parish where you will come across fun Christmas scenes. The little ones will like them, but the older ones will feel like children again. And the best thing of all: there is no curfew in Andorra, so as long as you wear your mask and respect the stipulated prevention measures, nobody will set a time for you to return to your appartment.

There is no Christmas… without a traditional market

In Andorra la Vella the giant Waterwheel, travelling shows or attractions for children are part of the activities planned to make these dates more enjoyable. In addition, at the Christmas market you can enjoy typical products and other “made in Andorra” products such as sausages, cheese or honey. You will also be able to drink hot wine and accompany it with something to eat while you make a stop after shopping.

The Nativity scene in Canillo: a Christmas attraction in Andorra

It is worth to go through it and discover scenes from the Nativity composed of life-size figures. There are more than 200 and they are spread all over the village. Here you can breathe Christmas all over the place 😉.

The most awaited visit

This year, due to the circumstances we are experiencing, Father Christmas and the Three Wise Men will arrive at all the parishes, but they will not make great parades. They will receive the little ones although they have prepared magic mailboxes in which to leave letters and the help of magic Elves and pages a few days before.

We start the year with music and theatre

Another tradition that cannot be missed is the New Year’s concert that takes place in the national auditorium in Ordino. Also very typical of this time of year is the play “Els Pastorets” which takes place in Sant Julià de Lòria.

During the holidays it is also a time to rest

After a tour through the colourful and lively Christmas return to your appartment to regain your strength. Find your little oasis of peace surrounded by mountains and stop by the spa’s jacuzzi while the kids continue to burn off energy in the children’s playground.

Like the rest of the year this holiday will also be different, but here you will find everything you need to spend the Christmas holidays in Andorra. Are you joining us?

5 benefits of Mushroom Hunting in Autumn

nature in Andorra, our apartments, with children 7 de October de 20207 de October de 2020

One of the best seasons for those who love to eat well has arrived. It is the time of the most expected fruits and vegetables for stews and seasonal dishes, without forgetting tasty mushrooms. Besides being delicious and nutritious, going to the mountains to look for mushrooms is one of the best activities to do in autumn.

We tell you 5 benefits for body and mind of going mushroom hunting:

Disconnect and breathe clean air

To begin with, you must travel to the mountains and spend a few hours away from home. This allows you to completely change the scenery and disconnect from your routine. It’s like a day of “mini-breaks” without thinking about the daily problems and enjoying nature. Besides, you get oxygen and breathe pure air.

Increase creativity and concentration

Most of the time you will forget about your mobile phone, emails, notifications and other technological distractions and focus on the present moment. You’ll only hear the sound of birds, the wind or the branches and fallen leaves of trees when you step on them, so you’ll increase your attentiveness.

Doing physical exercise

Walking in the mountains is a great exercise to keep fit. The climbs and descents in the mountains have nothing to envy to a good cardio session in the gym. So, you’ll burn calories while you’re in good company and filling your basket!

It is suitable for everyone

It is a fun activity that you can do alone, if you are an expert mushroom hunter, or accompanied by your family or group of friends, including children.

Take advantage of the outing to eat well

Now that you know some of the benefits of going mushroom hunting for the body, we’ll tell you about the benefits for the palate 😉.

Certainly, when you finish you will be hungry and the excuse is perfect to discover the Andorran gastronomy. There is nothing better than going to a Borda, a typical Andorran restaurant, to try their seasonal dishes with mushrooms. Accompany grilled meat with milk caps or a cream of mushrooms. Don’t forget to try the “ceps” in carpaccio or risottos. They are also very tasty in omelettes and scrambled eggs or as an accompaniment to a game stew.

As you can see, there are infinite combinations for all tastes.

Enjoy your meal!

Well-equipped for the mountains

Ideally, when you go looking for mushrooms, you should use a wicker basket: they will keep better than if you put them in a plastic bag, as the latter is where they are moistened. It is also necessary to carry a small knife to cut them, because if they are pulled out by the roots they will not grow back.

One very important thing: if you don’t know the type of mushroom or you are not sure, don’t pick it. There are poisonous species and you could get intoxicated. It is always better to consult an expert.

Do not forget that you are going to the mountains and that you have to be well equipped and have suitable shoes. It’s a good idea to get hold of some mountain poles, which will help you to lean and check the ground before you step on it. Remember that it’s the rainy season and the land can be damp under fallen leaves.

Looking for mushrooms in the mountains is an ideal activity to disconnect, do physical activity, eat well… and a lot of other benefits. Another one is that you can take advantage of the occasion to have an autumn break in Andorra. The good location of our holiday appartments and the fact that we are open all year round makes us the best option. Moreover, when you arrive at your accommodation you will be able to cook for yourself the fruits of the day’s outing.

Enjoy the thermal waters of Caldea also in summer

with children 5 de August de 20202 de September de 2020

In summer Andorra is nature, outdoor activities, enjoying the landscapes… And also Caldea! Its thermal waters are the perfect icing on the cake to complete your days in the mountains. We tell you everything you can do and which tickets you can buy.

If you go with children: your spa is the Thermoludic

You can enter the Thermoludic with children from 5 years old. The holidays are a good time to introduce your children to the wellness world and Caldea is the best place to do it. You can swim with them in the indoor and outdoor pools and try out the swan necks, hydrothermal baths and jacuzzis. As well as, having fun in the contrasting water of the Indo-Roman baths, in baths with temperatures ranging from 36ºC to 14ºC.

You can take advantage of the 3 hour entrance at any time of the day as the timetable is very extensive, from 10 am to 10 pm.

Take advantage of the last hours of the day

A good option is also to book the entrance and dinner offer. After a whole day in the mountains you will be able to enjoy the last hours of the afternoon to recover your strength in the spa. Combine the two-hour entrance fee at the Thermoludic with dinner at one of the restaurants with a complete and varied menu. In addition, at night you will also have the opportunity to enjoy the water, light and music games.

For couples who want a moment of relaxation

Caldea has a spa exclusively for adults, where you can disconnect and relax at any time of the day. In Inúu you will also find an endless number of thermal baths such as the indoor lagoon with a multitude of water jets and the outdoor one, bubble beds and jacuzzis. The entrance is 4 hours long and gives access to the Thermoludic and to Orígenes, where you will find the famous grapefruit bath. To enjoy Inúu you will only need your swimsuit, as the rental of the bathrobe, towel and slippers is included in the price. To complete your experience, we recommend you to book a relaxing massage that you can also find in a duo version to enjoy with your partner.

A Caldea’s long-awaited novelty

If after reading everything you can do in Caldea you are already thinking about booking your ticket, read on because we have left a very pleasant surprise for the end. You will be one of the first to bathe in the new outdoor panoramic lagoon. Located on the terrace of the Thermoludic, it flies over the Valira river, which will allow you to have a 360º view of the whole environment and you will have the sensation of being flying over the river. In addition, to celebrate its inauguration throughout the month of August, a series of animations have been programmed. Make the most of summer afternoons with live music and dancing.

You can access the new Caldea attraction with any of the tickets, both Thermoludic and Inúu, and with children from 5 years old.

Caldea is the best option along with the mountain and outdoor activities, since they have also conscientiously prepared themselves to be up to date in terms of prevention measures against the Covid-19.

As you can see, in Andorra you can do a lot of activities that complement each other perfectly and afterwards spend the night in the apartments Els Llacs. From here, we can also manage your reservations and give you all the information you need about activities.

We will be happy to advise you!

Family activities in Andorra: find the seven Tamarros

hiking, mountain and summer sports, nature in Andorra, our apartments, with children 2 de July de 20202 de September de 2020

Do you know the Tamarros? They are magic beings that live in the Pyrenees and are very difficult to see. They are hidden in the woods and mountains. Would you like to join your children to look for these wonderful creatures? It’s a great activity for the whole family. As well as taking you to discover new corners of our country, you will enjoy nature and the little ones in the house will get a reward.

Leave to find the seven Tamarros

Have fun with your family this summer by searching for the seven Tamarros who are hiding all over Andorra. Their hideouts are easily accessible and located in beautiful natural areas, near viewpoints, rivers or picnic areas.

We have been told that these beings are protecting our natural habitat from an evil troll called “Brutícia” (dirt) who is dirtying everything it finds around: forests, lakes, meadows… Each Tamarro takes care of one of the seven parishes of the Principality and the children who visit us can help them in their mission. They only have to find the magic portals and activate them with a round stone so that the Tamarros can find their way out of their magic world to Andorra.

At the end of the search, and to reward this great help, each child will receive a gift. But before starting, you have to visit a tourist office to get a notebook to fill in at each point. The closest one is in Canillo.

Let the search begin!

End the day resting in the spa

After all that hard work, you deserve a reward too. When you arrive at the Els Llacs Mountain apartments, recover yourself in our spa with mountain views while listening to the singing of the birds or watching a sunset from the Jacuzzi.

This summer don’t think twice about it. Come and spend your holidays surrounded by nature, discovering the Tamarros’ hideout, an activity in Andorra for the whole family. Stay at Els Llacs Mountain Apartments and enjoy all the comfort and unbeatable location of tourist apartments in the countryside.

Enjoy your safe summer holidays in Andorra

hiking, mountain and summer sports, nature in Andorra, our apartments, with children 27 de May de 202020 de July de 2020

In a few days we will meet again! Start to imagine your summer holidays in Andorra, because in a few days we open again Els Llacs Mountain Apartments.

Summer activities in Andorra

We are not the only ones thinking about opening. There are other tourism establishments that are considering operating this summer with the relevant security measures to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.

At the moment, these are the first news we have received and of which we are beginning to speak: this summer we will be able to enjoy Mon(t) Magic in Canillo, Soldeu Golf, located in Grandvalira and the Bike Park in Pal in Vallnord station.

For the moment, the activities and timetables have not been confirmed. But they are starting to talk about security measures.

A limited volume of people will be considered. For example, to get on the chairlifts and cable cars, the limit is set at 2 people (or more if they belong to the same family) and they will be disinfected after each use.There is also talk of making reservations and payments by internet to avoid physical contact and thus encourage minimum distance. In addition, from our apartments, at the time of booking your stay, we can also manage the tickets for these activities, as soon as we have more information. 😉

Another of the activities to be opened is the Palau de Gel, located in Canillo, where preventive actions will also be implemented to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

And if you wish, you can also take a bath in Caldea this summer. The centre is also working to adopt major safety measures in its thermal waters, as well as in all its facilities.

Not to mention that these activities in Andorra are perfectly complemented by excursions to the mountains.

Don’t forget that our tourist apartments are very well located, at the door of Grandvalira in the middle of the mountain. They are ideal for hikking in the open air and enjoying 100% of nature and are suitable for all levels!

Opening of borders

The borders with neighbouring countries have been closed during the entire coronavirus quarantine period. As of June 1, the border with France will be opened and the Spanish border is expected to open in early July. In order to allow tourists to travel to Andorra, work is underway to make it a domestic destination in both countries.

Andorra is a safe country to travel to

As in any other country, Andorra was also quarantined by completely stopping its activities and confining the entire population to their homes. It also began a gradual deconfinement in which, little by little, economic activities and businesses were resumed. In mid-April, measures were taken to ensure that citizens began to enjoy one hour every two days in the open air, with specific time slots. And so, until June 1 when these restrictions were lifted and the vast majority of economic activities were resumed.

On the other hand, it has pioneered a study of antibodies to the entire population.

As general safety measures all people must wear a mask in their daily life, as well as gloves and disinfectant gel for people facing the public, among other measures according to their activity.

In Els Llacs Mountain Apartments we will also open with all possible safety measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19. You can check them out here. See you very soon!

with children