What to do in Andorra in summer - 12 great tips

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What to do in Andorra in summer? Located in the Pyrenees on the border between France and Spain, this tiny principality is perhaps best known for skiing in winter. But the country has a lot to offer, even in summer.

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Principality of Andorra

The Principality of Andorra is one of Europe's microstates, with a population no larger than a small Swedish city. The small country is mostly mountainous and has an average altitude of 1,996 metres above sea level, compared to Stockholm at 28 metres above sea level.

What to see and do in Andorra in the summer?

So, what can you see and do in Andorra in the summer? In collaboration with Andorra Tourism, we've put together a little guide with tips and ideas.

1. Experience beautiful natural areas

In the summer Andorra on a wonderfully green nature filled with rivers, lakes and colourful flowers. In this small area there are no less than three protected natural areas:

• Madriu Perafita Claror Valley is the largest natural area in Andorra and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the cultural landscape category. Here, guided excursions are organised to discover animals and nature, but also human history dating back a long time.
• Sorteny Valley is a protected natural area found around the River Sorteny. There are lots of plants and flowers, some of which are exclusive to the Pyrenees, and you can see chamois roaming the slopes.
• Comapedrosa Valleys is the westernmost of the three nature reserves, with the Principality's highest peak, Comepedrosa Peak, at 2 942 metres above sea level. There are also opportunities to see large circling birds of prey.

2. Hiking

Andorra is great for hiking, among mountain peaks and glacial lakes, and there are a variety of hiking trails to choose from.

• GRP in Andorra is a tour of about 120 kilometres, taking you around the whole country in seven stages.
• Ordino "Estripagecs" is a challenging hiking trail for adventurers who want to reach high mountain peaks such as the top of Casamanya (2,540 metres above sea level), the top of Font Blanca (2,906 metres above sea level) and the top of Tristaina (2,913 metres above sea level).
• Coronal lakes is a 92-kilometre tour that links the four manned buildings in the mountains of Andorra, where you can stay overnight.
• Comapedrosa Peak is a peak at 2,942 metres, and climbing it is considered quite challenging. The best time is between late May and October, and the hike offers great views.
• Walks around lakes there are many different ones to choose from. Andorra has no less than 70 beautiful lakes to discover!

3. live close to nature

If you want to get close to nature, it's a good idea to stay close to nature. Here you will find suggestions for several types of accommodation that take you straight into nature:

• Cottages in Grandvalira offers charm in the heart of nature in the Grandvalira Resorts ski area.
• Sheltered mountain accommodation are dotted around the mountains, four of which are equipped with services for a more comfortable stay.
• Country house are a nice compromise between a cottage and a comfortable hotel, such as the Borda del Pi in Canillo and the Borda de l'Ovella Negra in Incles.
• Glamping is in Sedornet Ordino, where all tents are located at an altitude of 1650 metres with magnificent views of the valley.
• Campsites there are several in Andorra, such as Camping Valira, near the capital Andorra de la Vella.

4. See amazing views

Andorra offers amazing views, and you'll find them wherever you hike in the mountainous landscape. Some particularly awesome viewpoints can be found if you visit Roc Del Quer Viewpoint or Tristaina Solar Viewpoint, located at the top of Peyreguils (2 701 metres above sea level) near the border with France.

5. Venturing out on the suspension bridge in Canillo

The suspension bridge in Canillo spans the Vall del Riu. Located at an altitude of 1875 metres, the bridge is 603 metres long and has a maximum height of 158 metres. Would you venture out on it?

6. climbing

If you like climbing, there are plenty of opportunities in Andorra in the summer, with climbing routes, climbing walls and via ferrata routes. There are more than 400 routes with varying degrees of difficulty. There are also five canyons, where you can try canyoning.

7. Discover Andorra on horseback

A great way to discover nature is to do it from horseback. In Andorra, there are several clubs and riding schools that offer horseback riding tours of different lengths and levels.

8. Cycling in the mountains

One thing that is popular to do in Andorra in summer is to experience the country from the bike saddle. There are 21 mountain passes which have been featured in famous cycling events such as Tour de FranceBut you don't have to be a competitive cyclist to cycle in Andorra. There are plenty of cycling routes to choose from. Some are perfect for experienced mountain bikers, while others are ideal for those who want to take it easy on an electric bike.

9. Take the kids on an adventure

Andorra also offers adventures for younger members of the family. "Macarulla" are shorter and easier hiking trails suitable for the youngest, full of surprises and activities. In the landscape you can also look for the small magical figures called "tamarro".

Want a little more speed and excitement? Try a speedy ride on the "Tobotronc" at Naturland or the Mon(t) Magic zip line in the ski resort of Grandvalira. Or why not put the kids through cycling school at De Pal Arnisal Bike Park?

10. Enjoy wellness and spa

Why not combine the soothing mountain environment with wellness and spa? There are several hotels in Andorra that offer spas and different types of treatments. For example, you can visit the Caldea thermal spa, which is the largest thermal spa in southern Europe. Here you can relax in the large indoor lagoon and enjoy thermal water at temperatures between 32 and 34 degrees.

11. Shopping for electronics and jewellery

There are over 2000 shops in Andorra, including electronics, fashion, accessories, jewellery and perfumes. Most shops are located in Andorra la Vella and Escaldes Engordany.

12. Tasting Andorra

For many, food is an important part of the travelling experience when visiting a new country or place. In Andorra, flavour experiences can often be enhanced by beautiful outdoor terraces, with dreamy mountain views as a backdrop.

But what can you eat? In Andorra you can try charcuterie, locally produced cheeses and organic honey. The town of Sant Julià de Lòria is home to four of the country's micro-producing wineries.

More tips on what to do in Andorra in the summer?

Have you visited this little mountain principality? Do you have even more tips on what to do in Andorra in the summer? Let us know!

Top photo in the article: Andorra Tourism

More information at visitandorra.com and on social media @andorraworld.

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