planes-otoño

Andorra awaits you with the most original plans for autumn

With the arrival of the cooler months, Andorra transforms into a mosaic of ochre, red and gold tones, creating a visual spectacle that invites you to enjoy an autumn getaway. Els Llacs Mountain Apartments, located at the foot of the Grandvalira slopes, are the ideal place for those seeking peace and quiet and contact with nature. Although the slopes are now closed, the surroundings still offer activities and autumn plans perfect for disconnecting and enjoying nature.

Original autumn plans: explore the most spectacular viewpoints

Andorra’s Tibetan Bridge, known for its appeal in summer, takes on an even more special charm in autumn. Open until the end of October, you can see first-hand how the warm colours of the mountains enhance the beauty of the surroundings. Visiting it at this time of year is a unique opportunity to enjoy an original plan that captures the essence of Andorra in autumn. It is located in Canillo, next to the Roc del Quer, another of Andorra’s iconic viewpoints not to be missed.
If you’re still hungry for more, check out the route of viewpoints we’ve prepared in this article, where you’ll be able to discover other points from which you’ll be able to enjoy unforgettable views.
Don’t forget to take your camera – every corner becomes a postcard!

Autumn in Andorra is a delight for all the senses.

Andorra’s restaurants make the most of fresh, seasonal ingredients to offer typical dishes that capture the essence of the country. Among the season’s specialities, warm, comforting stews such as escudella or trinxat stand out, ideal to combat the autumn chill. Mushrooms also play a starring role in many traditional recipes, providing intense flavours and aromas that evoke nature.
Complete the experience by tasting the local wines to accompany any meal. In autumn, several gastronomic events are held, such as Andorra Taste, which will take place at the end of September, and Andorra a Taula, which will be held in November. Without a doubt, autumn plans to put in the diary of a true foodie!

Mushroom hunting in Andorra, the autumn activity par excellence

During this season, you can find a wide variety of edible mushrooms, such as chanterelles, boletus and chanterelles. Get a basket and a knife, and head into the forest to collect gastronomic treasures. As well as being a way to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquillity of the forest, this activity allows you to learn more about the local flora and culinary traditions of the region. However, it is important to follow the harvesting rules and make sure you correctly identify the species to ensure a safe experience for your health and respectful of the natural environment. This is just one of the many options that form part of the best autumn plans in Andorra.

Route of charming villages in Andorra

Visiting places like Ordino, Pal or Sispony will allow you to get to know Andorran history and culture, while strolling through cobbled streets, discovering Romanesque churches and enjoying traditional architecture.
Each village has its own personality and unique charm with the mountainous landscapes that surround them or their small squares and narrow streets where time seems to have stood still. This is one of those autumn plans that will allow you to discover the essence of Andorra.

Andorra is an exceptional destination for autumn plans. Coming to Els Llacs Mountain Apartments means choosing comfortable accommodation from which to explore all that this small country has to offer. If you are looking for ideas for a getaway, these autumn plans in Andorra guarantee you an unforgettable experience.

3 lagos de Andorra

Three lakes in Andorra to splash around in summer

Summer is in full swing and the good weather invites you to go out and enjoy the great outdoors. In Andorra, there are so many options that it’s hard to choose. And of course, nature and the mountains are the stars of the show! To make the most of them, we suggest 3 hikes to discover some of Andorra’s lakes. Perhaps you already know them or maybe they are new to you. Best of all, there is one for every type of hiker.

Tristaina lakes: the perfect adventure with children

These three lakes are located at an altitude of 2,300 metres: Estany Primer, Estany del Mig and Estany de Més Amunt. This is one of the most popular summer hikes in Ordino, an area that has been declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. Perfect for the whole family, it is classified as moderate difficulty. It takes approximately 40 minutes to walk from the access point to the first lake.
If you dare to reach the 3 lakes of Tristaina, the circular walk is 4.40 kilometres long and takes approximately 3 hours to be completed. It has a gradient of 200 metres, with ascents and descents until you reach Estany de Més Amunt, which is the only one that allows bathing during the summer.
The starting point is Coma de Arcalís. You can only get there before 8.30 am by car, on foot or by taking the cable car (for a fee). From mid-June to mid-September, the road to the Coma de Arcalís is closed from 8.30am to 5pm and only allows access on foot or by bicycle.

Cabana Sorda Lake near Els Llacs Mountain Apartments

The Cabana Sorda Lake is located in the Incles Valley, about 15 minutes by car from our appartments. The walk to the lake is 2.76 km long, with a difference in altitude of 470 metres, and is classified as a route of moderate difficulty. Some of the climbs are demanding, but the scenery is wonderful. The excursion runs through woods and meadows and offers spectacular views of the whole valley of Canillo. In some open areas, you will be able to see the ski slopes of El Tarter and Soldeu, as well as the peaks that surround the valley.
The start of the trail to reach Cabana Sorda is halfway along the Incles Valley road. You can get there on foot after leaving your car in the car park at the start of the valley, as the road is closed to traffic in summer.

The Estany de la Nou: crossing a nature reserve

This is a much more challenging route, recommended for those in good physical condition for walking in the mountains. It is 7.1 km long and has a positive difference in altitude of 1151m. It is located in the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley, one of the 3 natural parks of Andorra and the only one in the Pyrenees declared a World Natural Heritage Site by UNESCO. This lake’s waters are not as cold as those of other lakes, as they are fed by groundwater from the subsoil, which has a higher temperature. One of the access points is on the Comella road in Andorra la Vella, which can be reached by car.

Fun continues when you come down the mountain

Andorra is an ideal destination for nature lovers and hikers, offering trails for all levels. And the experience doesn’t end when you come down the mountain. You can complete your hiking routes to Andorra’s lakes with a wide variety of activities. From relaxing in thermal spas such as Caldea, to exploring the rich heritage in museums or cultural tours, or simply enjoying open-air festivals and concerts or the country’s gastronomy.
Add experiences and enjoy the best rest in Els Llacs Mountain Apartments.

senderismo con niños

Easy hiking routes in Andorra to enjoy with children

Travelling with children is an experience! Especially when it comes to finding activities for all the members of the family to enjoy. Luckily, Andorra is the ideal destination for families who love the mountains. You’ll find activities to suit all tastes where the youngest members of the family won’t get bored. They’ll discover themed routes, itineraries where they’ll learn about the territory, meet legendary characters and much more…
Today we bring you some of the most famous hiking routes to do with children. Perfect for having a good time and introducing the little ones to nature.

Search for the Tamarros de Andorra

These are very easy routes, ideal for hiking with children. They go through different natural spots in the country to find the 7 portals of the Tamarros. Each one is in an emblematic point of each parish and has a name representative of the place where it is located. To make the task easier, the Andorra Tourist Office provides you with a map to help you find the portals. And if you mark all the points, you will receive a prize set. It’s a good way to get to know corners of the country that you may not have visited yet and to do a fun activity with your children.

Walk the Maraculla trails

These are four themed and educational trails where youngsters can learn about the environment. They are also located in different parts of Andorra:
Where are the mushrooms?: this is the itinerary closest to Els Llacs Mountain Apartments, in Canillo. It provides an educational introduction to the most common mushrooms and fungi in Andorra.
The Menairons forest: it is in Pal, la Massana, and is dedicated to the little elves that inhabit the forests of the Pyrenees.
The potion of the Quela Witch, tells the legends and stories of witches in the country. You will find it in Escaldes.
Traces and footprints. The route is located in the Cortals d’Encamp, and will teach you to recognise the different tracks and traces left by the animals of the forest.

Discover the wellness trails

These are mountain routes that invite you to disconnect in nature through wellness activities. Moments: we are mountain, is specially designed for families with children from 6 to 12 years old. It takes place in the Rialp Valley, in Ordino. It involves finding your way around the most famous names in the parish of Ordino. This is the only paid route and it is necessary to book in advance at the Ordino Tourist Office.

Follow the Camí del Gall signs

It runs through the forest parallel to main road 2, which makes it easy to access at several points. You can start in Canillo, from the gondola car park, or from Soldeu in the opposite direction (and do it all descending). It is an informative route about the fauna, flora and views along the way. The whole family will enjoy it! The name of the trail comes from being the habitat of wild roosters, and the wooden signs are marked with a red cockerel.

Explore the Iron Route (Ruta del Ferro)

Located in Ordino, it’s perfect for families, offering an almost flat route from the Llorts mine to La Cortinada. Along the way, you’ll discover impressive sculptures such as the Iron Men and other structures related to the route’s theme. Children will enjoy learning about the iron transformation process at the Rosell Forge, a visit that perfectly complements the experience and guarantees fun for the whole family.

Reach the Toll Bullidor

An ideal route for hiking with children that is also close to the flats. It is a short trail of approximately 800 metres that starts near the Meritxell sanctuary and takes you to an impressive waterfall. Perfect to do with the family and discover El Toll Bullidor.

With these easy-access routes specially designed for youngsters to have fun, there is no excuse for not coming to the mountains this summer. Take advantage of these opportunities to connect with nature and go hiking with children.
We’ll take care of the rest.
Choose your flat and book at Els Llacs Mountain Apartments.

ciclisme-andorra

Andorra: the ideal destination for touring on two wheels

Many cycling enthusiasts choose Andorra for its mountain passes and routes, and it’s no coincidence! In this country you’ll find incredible road routes and ski resorts that turn out to offer adapted facilities and circuits.
So, if you love cycling, are passionate about spectacular landscapes and are looking for a territory dedicated to the cycling world, we invite you to discover why cycling in Andorra is your best option.

Road cycling in Andorra

Andorran mountain passes have become very famous in top-level races such as the Tour de France or the Vuelta a España. The Coll de la Gallina, Cortals de Encamp, Collada de Beixalís, Coma de Arcalís, the pass of La Rabassa or Coll de Ordino are some of the most famous names. But there is no doubt that climbing any of the 21 mountain passes is a real challenge for cycle tourists.
Check the cycling guides and start riding.
The routes are scattered all over the country and are well signposted. You can also admire the panoramic views of valleys and peaks or stop to rest in a typical village, always surrounded by nature and mountains.

Mountain biking and mountain biking in Andorra

Enjoy more than 600 kilometres of mountain biking routes throughout the country. In addition to the services offered by the ski resorts, which in summer are transformed to welcome mountain biking enthusiasts:
Grandvalira offers more than 90 kilometres of e-bike routes and services for electric bikes. We tell you more about its circuits in this article.
Naturland Bike Center challenges you with rocky terrain and descents, with all the facilities and services necessary for mountain biking.
Bike Park de Pal Arinsal invites you to unload your adrenaline on technical circuits that cover all mountain biking disciplines, some of which have been the setting for the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup.

Services dedicated to cycling in Andorra

You’ll find specialised shops all over the country, where you can buy the latest models and brands of road bikes, mountain bikes and e-bikes. They also have all the accessories, parts and specialised clothing you need. You will also find repair, maintenance and cleaning workshops, as well as a bicycle rental service.
If you don’t know the country well or if you prefer to explore it safely, you can hire guided routes where a cycling expert with extensive knowledge of the country will take you on a tour. You can choose between different services adapted to your level and preferences.

Major cycling events in Andorra

Every summer, Andorra becomes the epicentre of cycling, attracting fans from all over the world with its impressive calendar of events. Highlights include competitions such as the Volta als Ports and the Purito, where you can sign up and challenge your limits with your group of friends. These events not only test your skills, but also allow you to enjoy the mountain scenery and the country’s vibrant cycling community.
Andorra also hosts prestigious international events such as the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup, La Vuelta and the Tour de France, elite competitions that regularly visit the Principality.

A small curiosity about cycling in Andorra

Did you know that the Principality hosted its first cycling race in 1934? It was the Volta a Catalunya. It was not until 30 years later that the Tour arrived in 1964 and the Vuelta in 1965 for the first time. And the rest is history 😉.

Accommodation to welcome you and your bike

Els Llacs Mountain Apartments is perfectly adapted to welcome you and your bike. Forget the hassle of bringing it up to the flat or leaving it unattended in the car. Our holiday flats have a secure cycling room, free of charge. This dedicated space allows you to enjoy your stay without worries, knowing that your equipment is protected and ready for the next route.
Book your flat and come and enjoy cycling in Andorra

rutas fáciles con perro

Easy dog-friendly trails in Andorra: 3 perfect options for you and your pet

Summer is here! And it’s the perfect time for those who want to spend some quality time with their pets in the countryside.
Andorra is a great place to come and enjoy the mountains, which hide some incredible places to go with your dog. From routes for those who like to go out and test themselves on the most complicated slopes to those who prefer a more leisurely walk. Both options have one thing in common: wherever you go, you’ll enjoy the surroundings.

3 easy dog walks for everyone

We show you ways to have fun with your pet in Andorra with three easy routes so you can go whether you have a large, small or senior dog. They are ideal for enjoying nature effortlessly and ensuring your dog is comfortable and safe. Don’t leave anyone at home and experience unforgettable moments with your faithful friend in these beautiful landscapes!

Trekking to l’Estany Primer de Pessons

The first excursion is near Els Llacs Mountain Apartments, in the Grau Roig sector of Grandvalira. It is a good option for an easy hike with your dog and to discover a mountain lake located at an altitude of 2300 metres.
Duration: approximately 1.30 hours
Difficulty level: easy to moderate
Distance: 1.5 km
Start at the car park in the Cubil area, where you will find the signs that will take you through the forest to the lake. As the climb is not very difficult, you can observe nature while your dog enjoys discovering an environment different from his own. Once you reach Primer de Pessons lake, you can stop with your dog at the refuge’s restaurant. To go back down, you can go back down the same way you came up or return along the forest track. If you are up for it, a good option is to reach the other lakes of Pessons, although from here the route is somewhat harder.

Inter-parish path from Prats to Engolasters

This route is much longer, but has hardly any gradient. You will enjoy an accessible trail that has it all: Romanesque churches, breathtaking views, forest and rest points.
Duration: 4 hours
Difficulty: easy
Distance: 11.8 km
It is called inter-parish because it crosses Canillo, Encamp and Escaldes. As Els Llacs Mountain Apartments is in Canillo, we recommend you start here from the church of Sant Miquel de Prats to get to Sant Miquel d’Engolasters. Although it is not difficult at all, because you will hardly notice the 200 metres of difference in altitude, you should plan to walk 4 hours with your dog on the way there and 4 more on the way back. In addition, of course, you should bring enough water and food for everyone. In this article you will find tips for hiking with your dog in the mountains.

The Comapedrosa interpretative circuit

This circular hike is ideal for the whole family, as it is highly recommended for the youngest members of the family. It is located in the Comapedrosa Natural Park, in the parish of La Massana.
Duration: 1.30 hours
Difficulty: easy
Distance: 1.2 km
On this walk you will follow 10 panels that will help you to get to know nature at close quarters, to identify the environment and the terrain. While you follow the indications, your pet will also enjoy an outdoor excursion. It starts at the picnic area of the Pollós river and ends at the Arinsal dam.

You can come to Els Llacs Mountain Apartments with your dog

So that your holiday is 100% complete, we don’t leave anyone at home. In our holiday rentals you will find the comfort and space you need to accommodate the whole family. Discover the flat you like best and book at the best prices on our website. Don’t miss out on our discounts for early booking or for staying more than 4 nights.
Finally, you just need to choose one of the three easy routes with dog that you like 😉. If you want to know more places, be sure to check out our blog where we talk about many more.

 

canillo

Everything you can do in the parish of Canillo in summer

Canillo is the parish where Els Llacs Mountain Apartments is located. It is the largest in Andorra and this is reflected in the large number of activities it offers in winter, but also in summer. With the mountains close at hand, it has a lot to offer. Today we tell you what you can do for fun this summer in Canillo. With proposals for all tastes and close to the flats, you won’t get bored!

 

Splash: the new summer sensation

The Palau de Gel is located in the centre of Canillo, about 10 minutes by car from our flats. It has recently launched a new attraction, ideal for cooling off in summer (and all year round). The Splash activity includes 3 giant water slides where the whole family will have a great time. Plus the chance to skate on Andorra’s only ice rink. As we were saying, this is a very refreshing activity for summer afternoons, after spending the day in the mountains.

 

Hiking routes in Canillo

This is the ideal parish if you want to go hiking, with many routes and excursions for all levels.
If you go with the family, we suggest the Camí del Gall route, which goes from the town of Canillo to Soldeu (although you can also start the other way round, going all the way down and going up by bus to Soldeu). This is an accessible trail for children, well signposted and with indications explaining the flora and fauna you will encounter along the way.
Not forgetting the well-known Vall d’Incles, where you can go on countless excursions to lakes, such as Juclar, the largest in Andorra, Siscaró or Cabana Sorda.

 

Soldeu Golf

Did you know that Andorra has the highest golf course in Europe? It is located in the Soldeu sector of Grandvalira at an altitude of 2,250 metres. It has 9 holes, a par 33, 16 hectares and a length of 2,590 metres. It also has a school with professional instructors, equipment hire and a restaurant. It is usually open from the end of June to September.
This time you don’t have to go very far, just to the 8-seater cable car in Soldeu, which is the only place to access the course.

 

Cycling routes in Canillo

If you are a fan of cycling, you are in the right place. Andorra has routes for road cyclists and mountain bikers.
We suggest a moderate route that leaves from the centre of Canillo to El Forn, where the Grandvalira Family Park activity centre is located. The route is about 5 kilometres long, with a difference in altitude of 388 metres.
You’ll also find mountain bike and e-bike circuits in the Grandvalira sectors.

 

Family activities to enjoy the mountains

In summer there are many ways to enjoy the mountain.

Grandvalira’s Family Park is the ideal place to enjoy an unforgettable day out with your children. It offers outdoor activities for the whole family.

Discover Andorra’s adventure parks.

 

Eating well in Canillo

Gastronomy is another must on a trip, especially if you come to Andorra. In Canillo it is easy to sample the local gastronomy in some of the typical restaurants such as the bordas. But you can also sample international cuisine. Don’t miss the two restaurants at the Park Piolets hotel: Kao Soldeu and the new Trattoria by Andrea Tumbarello. In the former you will savour the delights of Italian haute cuisine and in the latter you will travel to the most authentic Italy thanks to its dishes.

Tibetan bridge and the Roc del Quer

You’ve probably already heard that one of the longest Tibetan bridges in the world is in Andorra. And we also have it in Canillo and next to the Roc del Quer viewpoint. Undoubtedly two of the most emblematic spots to enjoy the views of Andorra. 

Museums in Andorra and cultural activities

Finally, if your trip must include a cultural visit, we recommend the church of Sant Joan de Caselles, a fine example of Romanesque architecture in Andorra, which is open in summer.
Without leaving Canillo, you can enjoy the motorbike museum, where you will find a collection that reviews its evolution since 1896 with iconic pieces.
And to round off the cultural visits, don’t miss the Meritxell sanctuary, dedicated to the patron saint of Andorra and part of the Marian Route.

These are just some of the activities and visits you can do in Canillo.
After a day of emotions, we are waiting for you at Els Llacs Mountain Apartment, where you will enjoy your well-deserved rest, in holiday flats with everything you need.

 

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Discover mountain biking in Andorra 

Ski resorts aren’t just for skiing! With the arrival of spring in Andorra, a host of activities are opening up for lovers of outdoor sports and contact with nature. Hiking, climbing and canyoning are just some of them… and also mountain biking. The latter combines descents with routes along quieter paths. Whether you are an expert or you want to get into the world of mountain biking, we tell you about the options offered by the mountain biking resorts in summer, to enjoy mountain biking or e-biking.

Grandvalira mountain biking circuits

This summer, explore Grandvalira on two wheels on its 94 kilometres of e-bike circuits, divided into 12 itineraries that cross the Soldeu, Grau Roig, Encamp and Canillo sectors. The circuits are designed for cyclists of all levels, with clearly differentiated routes by colour (as is already done on the ski slopes), guaranteeing a safe and tailor-made experience for each cyclist:

E-bike Circuits:

Green and blue: for beginners, with 30 kilometres of easy routes that will allow you to enjoy the landscape without worries.
Blue and red: for those with some experience, offering 50 kilometres of medium-difficulty routes.
Red and black: designed for more experienced cyclists, challenging them along the most technical trails.
In addition, the station is equipped with facilities for you to enjoy your E-Bike, such as pressurised water hoses and recharging points (remember to bring your own charger). And to make the most of the experience, the resort offers you the Bike Pass. This allows you to use up to 3 lifts between the Encamp, Canillo and Soldeu cable cars.

Pal Arinsal Bike Park

Andorra has the 4th best Bike Park in the world, according to the Red Bull ranking. Its location, in the heart of nature, its tracks and its facilities make the Pal Arinsal Bike Park a benchmark. And for this reason it hosts one of the MTB World Cup races every year.

– A reference point for mountain biking

It has 32 circuits totalling a total of 40 kilometres, signposted according to difficulty (green, blue, red and black) and of different MTB disciplines. It has 24 downhill routes (DH), 2 of which are Wood Park type, equipped with modules, footbridges and other elements. As well as 4 Cross-Country (XC) routes, 2 enduro, 1 Four-Cross and 1 e-Bike.
In addition, you can also practice balancing on ramps and other irregularities of the terrain on the Pump Track.
The youngest members of the family can play and learn in the Fun Zone.
To access the Fun Zone, you will have to buy a ski pass that allows access to 4 ski lifts in the resort, including the La Massana cable car.

Naturland Bike Center

Discover the world of mountain biking at the Naturland centre in Sant Julià de Lòria. This cycling paradise is perfectly equipped to welcome cycling enthusiasts, offering more than 60 kilometres of varied circuits. In total there are 14 routes with different levels of difficulty so that you can choose the one that best suits you. In addition, you’ll find technical areas and jumps designed to test your skills and increase your adrenaline. Whatever your experience, you’ll have the perfect challenge for you in spectacular natural surroundings.

Apartaments in Andorra to enjoy the summer

Open all year round, Els Llacs Mountain Apartments are ideal for you to make the most of every moment of your stay. In summer, nature surrounds you and offers access to hiking trails, mountain biking and road cycling circuits as well as many other outdoor activities.
For your convenience, we have included a variety of services, making sure you lack nothing. Among them, we highlight our cycling room equipped with camera surveillance, to store your bike.
Our holiday flats are fully equipped and designed to comfortably accommodate the whole family, including your pet. Spacious and cosy, they are the ideal place to relax and enjoy an unforgettable holiday. Book your flat in Andorra.

And finally… We highlight our commitment to the environment.

We have received the “Llum Verda” (green light) seal which guarantees that the energy we use in the flats comes from renewable sources. It is more sustainable and thus reduces CO2. This certification is issued by the main electricity company in Andorra, FEDA (Forces Elèctriques d’Andorra).

Enjoy Andorra on two wheels, we are waiting for you!

Andorra

Andorra is a destination to visit all year round

Andorra is a country to be experienced 365 days a year, and each season has its own special charm! In spring, nature awakens, in summer the sun and the good weather invite you to extend your days in the mountains, and autumn is ideal to escape from routine after your holidays. And the first snowfalls are the first sign that winter is approaching, marking the start of the ski season.
Each season offers different experiences to enjoy in your own way and with whoever you want, whether you are travelling as a couple, with your family or with friends.
Here we tell you all about it!

Spring bursts out in all its splendour

It is the favourite time of the year for many. Temperatures are more pleasant when it comes to taking advantage of the last of the snow to go skiing before the resorts close, ski touring or snowshoeing. But it is also a perfect time for cycling without getting cold or going for a walk or run in the city or the mountains when the snow is gone.
In May and June, the first sporting events and open-air music festivals begin in Andorra and continue until the beginning of autumn.

The quietest season

Another reason to be a fan of this season is that it is less crowded compared to summer or winter. After Easter and before July, there are fewer visitors to Andorra. You’ll be able to stroll and go shopping at your leisure, and you won’t have to stress about booking a table in one of the country’s busiest restaurants. But what’s more, if you get away in spring, you’ll enjoy better prices 😉. Book your spring break on our website and benefit from an extra 10% discount.

In summer you won’t stop!

Parties, festivals and outdoor activities, as well as trail running, road cycling and mountain biking competitions are always on the agenda – check out the events calendar to make sure you don’t miss a thing!
The word that best defines summer in Andorra is: active. These are the days to pack your backpack and go hiking. It doesn’t matter if you climb a peak or reach a lake: nothing compares to having breakfast or lunch surrounded by the sounds of nature. In Andorra, you’ll find hiking trails available for all levels and with durations that are affordable for everyone.

Much more than hiking

You can also set aside a day for the endless activities in the heart of nature offered by the ski resorts during the summer months, perfect for children, without forgetting to make time for culture! Summer gives you the chance to visit the Romanesque churches that are only open at this time of year, or to attend museum nights with small concerts, performances and cultural routes.
And to round off the summer season: an essential part of your visit is a sunset over the mountains from one of Andorra’s viewpoints, an impressive souvenir to take home with you!

Autumn is all about colours, flavours and lots of shopping

During this time of year, getaways to make the most of the weekends and long weekends in autumn are commonplace. Temperatures are still pleasant and there are enough daylight hours to stroll through the streets of the country and have a drink on the terraces.
At the end of September, nature begins its transformation and changes its colour palette from green to ochre, orange and reddish tones. Undoubtedly, a visual spectacle that captivates everyone who sees it.

The shopping festival

In November, the Andorra Shopping Festival is held, a festival for shopping lovers. During the weekends, in the country’s shopping centre you can attend live performances, travelling shows, as well as take advantage of discounts and special promotions. This is the time to get ready for the coming winter season and renew your ski equipment.
For foodies, Andorra Taula is also here, the country’s culinary days whose proposals will delight you 😉.

And then comes the star season of the year: winter.

Skiing, snowboarding and snow activities are the things to look forward to in December in Andorra. This season is synonymous not only with snow sports, but also with celebrations. Christmas, New Year and Epiphany festivities fill the streets with a festive spirit. Lights, Christmas markets and decorations create a magical atmosphere, ideal for enjoying with family or friends. In winter Andorra also celebrates Carnival, a great opportunity to discover local traditions and the much-desired Valentine’s Day.

The après-ski in Andorra

Of course, no snow day is complete without après-ski. A tradition that turns afternoons and evenings into moments of relaxation and entertainment. Andorra offers a wide variety of options.

Plans to do 365 days a year

In Andorra you’ll find activities to enjoy all year round. From shopping in its commercial hubs, to visiting museums that tell the story of the country’s history and culture, to relaxing or having fun in Caldea. Ice skating is an option at any time of year, while visiting the picturesque Andorran villages allows you to discover the rustic charm of the Pyrenees. Each activity offers a unique experience, making Andorra the perfect place for those looking for variety and charm all year round.

Year-round accommodation

Els Llacs Mountain Apartments are also for year-round enjoyment and the pace of the plans Andorra has to offer. They are located in Bordes de Envalira, just 2 minutes from Soldeu by car and opposite the Grandvalira ski resort. Here you will feel at home, in holiday flats that stand out for their uniqueness and are fully equipped with all the comforts you can imagine. We also have a children’s mini-club and a spa, so that everyone can make the most of their holidays in Andorra, whether in summer or winter.
Get ready for adventure and book your flat in Andorra!

viajar con tu mascota

Make your holiday a unique experience with your pet

Nowadays, pets are an important part of the family. We rely on them more and more, even for holidays. Aspects such as choosing a destination, means of transport, accommodation and even activities often revolve around them. Beyond their simple companionship, travelling with your pet can have a significant impact on both your well-being and theirs. Not only do they enrich your experiences, but they also bring multiple benefits, which we detail below.

 

Strengthen your bond

By sharing new experiences and adventures, from hiking in the mountains to exploring downtown Andorra, mutual understanding and trust grows. This quality time, without the day-to-day rush, allows for a deeper connection, strengthening the emotional bond. So, travelling with your pet can strengthen your bond.

 

Travelling with pets enhances the experience

Pets often lead us to explore places we might otherwise overlook, such as secluded parks, off-the-beaten-path trails or mutually-friendly hiking trails. This different, pet-centred perspective allows you to discover hidden gems.

 

You meet other animal lovers

Both animals and their owners can benefit from interacting with new people and other pets. It gives you the opportunity to meet other travellers or local dog walkers in your area, which enriches your trip.

 

Improves physical health

Of course, travelling with your pet ensures a minimally active holiday. Exploring new environments, walking on unfamiliar trails or playing with your pet are great forms of exercise that benefit both of you. This outdoor physical activity not only improves fitness, but also contributes to overall wellbeing.
Discover trails for all levels to do with your dog that we propose in this article of our blog.

 

Accommodation to stay with your dog

In general, Andorra is a destination that welcomes pets and offers many plans in nature. At Els Llacs Mountain Apartments we are pet friendly because we know that it is very important to you that your dog accompanies you everywhere. We offer spacious and comfortable holiday flats open all year round and designed to accommodate from 2 to 11 guests, with clearly defined spaces and well equipped with everything you need. We are located in Bordes, opposite Grandvalira.

 

Aspects to bear in mind when travelling with your pet

When travelling with your pet, you will have to take certain measures to cover their needs and adapt to unforeseen circumstances.

– Plan your journey well

If you are travelling by car, most likely if you are coming to Andorra, you will have to plan your stops to stretch your legs and feed and water your dog.

– Pack your pet’s “suitcase”

It is necessary to take with you everything he may need, such as his food, toys, water for the trip, medicines (if any) and his documentation. Remember that you have to cross a border and that Andorra has its own regulations regarding pets. Consult them here.

– Adapt your pet before travelling

If you are going to spend many hours travelling and your pet is not used to it, it would be a good idea to travel a few days beforehand so that it can gradually adapt.
In this article we complete all the details to take into account when travelling by car with your pet.

Travelling with your pet opens up a world of shared experiences that benefit you both. From strengthening bonds to promoting physical health, the possibilities for exploring together are virtually limitless. So next time you’re planning an adventure, consider taking your companion along.
We look forward to seeing you!

esquí nórdico

Discover what Nordic skiing is like at Naturland: another experience to try this winter

Although downhill and ski mountaineering are the best-known and most popular options in Andorra, there is a third way to glide over the snow: Nordic skiing. If you are a lover of this winter sport, or if you want to get started in this discipline, the slopes of the Naturland resort await you.

Naturland: the destination for Nordic skiing

– Nordic skiing

Located in Sant Julià de Lòria, in the south of the country, this resort invites you to explore its 15 kilometres of slopes of all levels, through the La Rabassa forest. To get there, you have to go to the 2000 m elevation.
In addition to the trails, it also offers a cross-country ski school with specialised instructors, ideal for beginners and experienced skiers alike. You can also book excursions with expert guides to discover the stunning landscapes surrounding the resort. And to complete the experience, it also offers equipment hire shops, ensuring you have everything you need for your day in the snow.

– Adventure park

Naturland is also an outdoor adventure park offering a host of activities in the heart of the mountains, both in winter and summer. It also has the Tonbotronc, the longest nature toboggan run in the world with a distance of 5.3 km and a gradient of 400 metres, on which you can reach 35 km/hour.
Naturland is undoubtedly the perfect plan for a day of adventure.

What you need for Nordic skiing

If you have not yet taken up this winter sport, the first thing you need to know is that the boards, shoes and poles are different to those you would use for alpine skiing.
The skis are thinner and the binding is mobile, as you have to walk on the ski to glide across the snow. The poles are longer than those used in alpine skiing, to support you better, as you will need to use more force to propel yourself. Finally, cross-country ski boots are more flexible and lighter than ski boots.

Doing sport and getting fit

Nordic skiing is a very complete sport, as it works all parts of the body, including the torso and arms. It does not require any previous physical condition; it is accessible to all ages, opening up a world of possibilities for beginners and sports enthusiasts alike. The tranquillity of its circuits is combined with a less crowded atmosphere than alpine skiing. In addition, Nordic skiing is characterised by gentler slopes as it takes place on circuits through forests and mainly on flat trails.

Nordic ski passes for cross-country skiing in Naturland

The resort offers several alternatives for cross-country skiing in its facilities. You can buy from a one-day ski pass to a complete package, which is highly recommended to try this sport as it includes a day pass, ski equipment, lessons with an instructor and lunch.

A good rest after a day in the snow

Although on this occasion you have to go a little further than usual to experience one of Andorra’s winter activities, the journey will be worth it.
When you get back to the flat, all you have to do is relax. Let yourself be enveloped by the spaciousness and comfort of a perfectly equipped space, designed to guarantee your rest and well-being. Book your flat and come and enjoy the winter in Andorra. If you wish to book a ski pass for Nordic skiing or any other snow activity, contact us and we will manage your reservation.

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