Alvin M. Keeling 
Andorra is a mountain lover’s dream, made up of several small towns and villages located in a unique setting in the heart of the Pyrenees. This small country is only a 3-hour drive from Toulouse and Barcelona, making it a great day trip if travelers are short on time. Andorra has stunning alpine beauty that is sometimes overlooked in tourist plans. Despite its small size, this principality is well known in Europe as a wonderful winter destination for its excellent skiing and popular summer activities. Here are the top 10 rated activities to do in Andorra.
ten Winter sports in Vallnord
Vallnord, one of the most popular winter sports venues in the Pyrenees, attracts snowboarders and skiers from all over Europe to its many excellent slopes. Plus, they’re suitable for all skill levels, with more experienced downhillers preferring the north-facing alpine slopes of Arcalis, which have long-lasting snow. Arinsal and Pal are popular among beginners and seasoned fans. The majority of the slopes are linked by cable car, while Pal is served by beautiful gondolas from the village of La Massana.
9 Visit the miniature museum
When visiting Ordino, the charming Museum of Miniatures (Museo de la Miniatura) is a great place for young and old to spend some time. The exhibition consists of very small works of art. These hauntingly microscopic masterpieces, created by Ukrainian artist Nicolai Siadristy, widely considered the greatest in his field, are so small that many have to be examined under a microscope or magnifying glass to be assessed.
8 Visit La Cortinada And The Church Of Sant Martí
The fascinating town of La Cortinada is one of the most attractive small villages in Andorra. The stunning village, surrounded by colorful meadows and steep hillsides, is home to the magnificent Church of Sant Martí de la Cortinada from the 12th century. This well-preserved medieval temple is famous for its Romanesque paintings, mass grave and magnificent old dovecote. Some 17th and 18th century embellishments were then added to this splendid site.
7 Visit Andorra la Vella
The unexpected and exceptional attractions of this small town are numerous and allow tourists to get around on foot. Casa de la Vall, Meritxel Avenue, Margineda Bridge, Santa Coloma Church and the largest and most magnificent medieval bridge in Andorra are just a few examples. La Noblesse du Temps, a sculpture by Salvador Dali, was placed in the capital in 2010. It is an unmissable masterpiece and is now an icon of the city.
6 Walk around Ordino and Canillo
Ordino and Canillo are two of the most attractive villages in Andorra. Undoubtedly, they are worth walking around and getting lost in their beautiful stone houses and streets with breathtaking views of the high green mountains in the background. In Canillo, travelers should not miss the Roc del Quer viewpoint, which has a unique glass floor and dazzling panoramic views of the valley. The Church of La Cortinada is also important to visit in Ordino.
5 Try Andorran beer
The mouth-watering Alpha beer is the only local craft beer. Alcohol lovers can also visit the fantastic brewery located in La Cortinada. Visitors can enjoy unique guided tours and exceptional tastings at the charming distillery.
- Opening hours: The brasserie opens its doors to you to taste its delicious products from Tuesday to Saturday from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
4 Visit Encamp and the National Automobile Museum
In winter, the wonderful town turns into one of the most important ski centers in the country, with a gondola linking it directly to the thrilling slopes of Pas de la Casa and Grau Roig. The superb National Automobile Museum, with its various exhibits of rare vintage vehicles, is also located in the city. This exceptional and unique collection also includes a steam engine from 1885, as well as vintage bicycles and motorcycles in excellent condition.
3 Visit the town of Les Escaldes
Les Escaldes, an Andorran town, owes its name to the many hot springs that dot the area. The temperature of the city’s magical waters, containing high percentages of sulfur and nitrogen, ranges from a pleasant 22 degrees to a boiling point of 66 degrees Celsius and was widely recognized for its medicinal benefits as far back as Roman times. . Tourists can also visit the Museum of Models of Romanesque Art, which houses a marvelous collection of 30 models of the most famous Romanesque buildings in Andorra.
2 Relax in Caldea
The massive and exceptional thermal complex of Caldea (the largest in Europe) dominates the skyline of the capital with its magnificent glass pyramidal tower, located in the center of Andorra la Vella. The resort has over 6,000 square meters (64,583.46 square feet) of aquatic entertainment and treatment space. Visitors can enjoy the many delightful lagoons (outdoors and indoors) and the many comforting jacuzzis and saunas. It also has several specialist spa facilities, including heated marble slates, waterfalls, Indo-Roman baths, and even a grapefruit pool.
1 Visit La Casa De La Vall
LaCasa de la Vall is a popular tourist destination in Andorra. It was built in 1580 and is currently the seat of government. It is renowned for its magnificent coat of arms and other historical emblems of the former rulers of the country. The splendid Reception Room, with its 16th century murals, and the Council Chamber are included in the guided tour. The historical cabinet of the seven keys which houses the country’s archives, including documents dating back to the reign of Charlemagne, can be seen here.
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