Andorra travel guide

A Pyrenean principality, Andorra is dwarfed by its two huge neighbours but has never lost its strong sense of identity. This is shaped, in the main, by its geography; tucked into the Eastern Pyrenees, Andorra’s highest point is the 2,942m Coma Pedrosa, and its landscape is a crumpled blanket of peaks, valleys and rivers.
Little more than a dot on the map, sandwiched between European giants France and Spain, the microstate of Andorra promises some surprisingly macro adventures.
The snow here has long attracted skiers, but when it melts, there is no shortage of mountain biking trails, hiking routes, rope swings and rivers to explore. And even in the depths of winter, head off-piste and into the Christmas card-worthy landscapes on snowshoes or cross-country skis – or mush your own pack of dogs as you sled through the snow. What’s more, with summer and winter highlights, Andorra works brilliantly during school holidays – so bring the family.
As our Andorra travel guide reveals, sometimes the best holidays really do come in very, very small packages.

Andorra is…

the sixth smallest country in Europe, at 468km².

Andorra isn't…

French, or Spanish. The official language is Catalan.

Things to do in Andorra…

Andorra is small and mountainous, within easy reach of the UK and a hub for outdoor activities – in short, it’s a superb destination to bring the kids. Small group family holidays here generally have a minimum age of five, and your holiday company will try to ensure you are matched with children of a similar age. The activities are suited to all levels with plenty of beginner options – from downhill mountain biking to zip lining through treetops and even snow shoeing and husky sledding in winter. And once you’re in Andorra, driving distances are short, so there will be no choruses of “are we nearly there yet?” Perhaps this is your first family holiday away from the beach, your first small group tour, or your first activity holiday – but either way, Andorra is a wonderful place to step outside your comfort zone. Excellent group leaders and activity guides ensure you’re always safe and happy, with daily hikes and bike rides tailored to ensure no one gets left behind. All activities are optional, snow shoeing and cross country skiing are designed for absolute beginners, and on cycle trips, support vehicles mean you can opt to walk instead or just hop in the back of the 4x4 if the pedalling gets a bit too much. There is also free time for you to sign up for activities such as the Via Ferrata or a horse ride through the exquisite Pyrenean scenery.

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Things not  to do in Andorra

Lie in. Andorra may be tranquil with some of the most serene landscapes that Europe has to offer, but don’t come here for a relaxing, laid back break. Adventure holidays here usually involve early starts and long days to make the most of your time in Andorra – itineraries are packed with outdoor activities, with picnic lunches usually taken on the go, as well as the odd lakeside barbecue. You are sure to return home refreshed though, and with a guaranteed healthy glow.
Go downhill skiing. Andorra boasts some brilliant skiing – but spending a week on the pistes would mean missing out on some of the most stunning regions of the country. If planning a winter holiday here, try cross country skiing instead to cover plenty of ground – or perhaps snow shoeing, which can take you to the parts even cross country skiers can’t reach. Learn how to build your own igloo, mush huskies, and even locate people trapped in avalanches using transponders – a sort of very grown up – and potentially lifesaving – game of hide and seek.
Come for the tax free shopping. Chances are you’ll have a free day during your holiday to venture into the compact capital of Andorra la Vella if you do fancy a mooch around the shops. But personally, we think the mountain views and pristine lakes are what really sum up “priceless” here.
Written by Vicki Brown
Photo credits: [Page banner: Huche] [Is/isn't: Albert] [Things to do/not do: Marc Rafanell Lopez]