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Monumentos de Andorra

Free tour of the sculptures and open-air monuments of Andorra

with children,  nature in Andorra,  pet friendlyPosted on

Our article gives you ideas on how to organise some tours of Andorra’s monuments. Some of them you already know, but you are sure to discover at least one new one. What they have in common is that you can combine them with other activities, they don’t cost anything and most of them are accessible to dogs.

One of Andorra’s most famous monuments

“La noblesse du temps” is located in the square of the roundabout, over the Valira river. You’re likely to come across it while shopping in the country’s most central streets. The sculpture created by Salvador Dalí symbolises the passing of time. The crown on the clock is the artist’s representation of the dominion of time over humanity.
Another interesting spot is just behind this piece of art: the Paris Bridge, with the famous Andorra la Vella letters that light up at night. It is one of the most Instagrammable places in the capital. Many families and couples stop in front of the sculpture to have their photo taken with the sign in the background.

A stroll through a fairytale village in Sant Julià

Auvinyá is a small village of “relatively” new construction, resulting from a private initiative. It is an urbanisation recreated as a small medieval village built with wood, stone and slate, with details that will transport you back to this period. The Casa Auvinyà vineyards are also located here, famous for the production of their high altitude wine, which you can also visit (for a fee).
There is still more… Now that you are in this part of Sant Julià, follow the road to La Rabassa and reach the Juberri gardens. Another magical place where art and nature merge. You’ll be amazed by the sculptures of animals, famous monuments of great cities and mythological beings scattered throughout the area.

A cup of tea in the mountains

It sounds like a great plan, but this is another sculpture . If you’re a fan of Andorra, you’re sure to know it: it’s the famous “Storm in a teacup” that you can see at Coll de la Botella, near Pal. A large metal structure that recreates a cup on a giant plate. To get there you will pass through Pal, another mountain village where it is well worth making a stop and strolling through its streets. If you’re travelling with children, don’t miss the route through the “Forest of the Menairons”, where these magical creatures live. These three visits are no problem for you and your four-legged companion.

Art in the middle of nature

Another sculpture that you are sure to be familiar with. It is located in the Arcalís ski resort at an altitude of 2,155 metres and is called “Punto sublime” (Sublime Point). The way it is inclined, it looks as if this giant “O” has to roll down the side of the mountain. You can combine this visit with the solar viewpoint and it is also the starting point for mountain routes, such as the Tristaina lakes. All of them, routes to share with your four-legged friend and suitable for children too.

An authentic mediaeval bridge

Another of Andorra’s monuments is the Margineda Bridge. Built in the 15th century, it is the only one of its kind still standing in the country: 33 metres long and with a single arch of nine and a half metres. It is located on the old royal road that leads to Andorra la Vella from Sant Julià and across the Valira River. You can get there on foot from the capital or by car.

These are some of Andorra’s outdoor sculptures and monuments, but there are many more. As most of the routes are pet-friendly, you can enjoy them with your dog.
Have you already chosen which one do you prefer?

escapada con niños

The Best Mother’s Day Gift: A Family Getaway

with children,  hiking, mountain and summer sports,  nature in Andorra,  UncategorizedPosted on

This year, celebrate Mother’s Day in the most original way. The first Sunday in May is approaching and by now, you must be wondering what could make her happy. Forget about typical gifts and extend the day to a weekend celebration. Plan a family getaway and enjoy the best spring activities in Andorra. We propose a different experience for each type of mom.

A Family Getaway for Adventurous Moms

This plan is for moms who love spending time in nature. Did you know that Andorra has another Tibetan bridge apart from the one that was opened last summer in Canillo? It is located on the road to Cortals de Encamp, it’s more accessible and it’s also free. It’s 50m long and 5m high. It’s a good option for the whole family while waiting for the Canillo Tibetan bridge to reopen. You can also combine it with a hiking excursion in the area.

For Foodie Moms Who Want to Try New Flavors

Take advantage of one of the days to invite mom to eat or dine out. In Andorra, you’ll find a wide variety of restaurants. You can taste everything from typical Pyrenean cuisine to more gastronomic proposals, Asian food, daily menus or tapas. You’ll surely find the place that meets the expectations of the whole family.

For Moms Who Love Culture

If mom loves discovering new places, you’re also in the perfect place. We recommend a tour of the most beautiful towns in the parish of Ordino. You can do it by car or from the town of Ordino to the iron route on foot following the path that runs alongside the road. You’ll pass through mountain villages like Arans, La Cortinada or Llorts while enjoying examples of typical Andorran architecture. You’ll also pass by Romanesque churches and the Cal Pal house in La Cortinada, one of the oldest in the country, which is open to visit on Saturdays and Sundays in the morning.

For Moms Who Want to Go Shopping

Shopping fits in with the rest of the activities and can be done all year round in Andorra. It’s a good opportunity to stroll through the most commercial streets in the center of Andorra la Vella and Escaldes or even Pas de la Casa and help her choose a good gift.

Surprise Mom with an Afternoon at the Spa

Something she’ll love is spending time at the spa to disconnect. Caldea is the ideal place to book a ticket to the thermal waters and combine it with a relaxing massage or beauty treatment. And of course: you can accompany her! From the apartments, we can help you manage the spa plan.
We hope you liked these ideas for celebrating Mother’s Day in a different way. Book your apartment at Els Llacs Mountain Apartments and enjoy a family getaway at your own pace.

esqiuar en primavera

The last skiing moments of the season: ski in spring in Andorra

nature in Andorra,  Andorra apartments offers,  ski and winter sportsPosted on

The ski season isn’t over yet! This year it runs until 16 April, so there’s still time to come skiing in spring. The last months of the season are characterised by higher temperatures, longer and sunnier days, so you’ll have to adapt to the conditions. To continue enjoying the slopes until the last day we give you some tips that we hope you will find useful. It is also important that you plan your getaway well and check the weather before leaving home.

How to ski in spring

To enjoy the snow in April and March you have to bear in mind that the temperatures are higher and the sunshine is more intense than in the first months of the season. As the spring season begins, the snow melt increases and the snow becomes softer. So you will have to adapt to the weather for spring skiing. The watchword is to get up early and take advantage of the early hours of the day when the snow is in the best condition. In the morning the snow is firmer and as the day progresses it becomes softer. Start on the lower slopes and those that are sunnier, and leave the higher slopes and those that get less sun for later in the day, as the snow is better preserved there.

Dress in layers for spring skiing

Even though it’s getting warmer, don’t get overconfident… remember you’re in the mountains. The weather changes frequently, the temperature varies during the day and you’re at a higher altitude. If you want to ski in spring or enjoy snow activities, it’s best to dress in layers. In the morning it is much colder, but by midday the sun is warmer. So ideally you should be able to take off pieces of clothing to avoid sweating.

– On the body

Choose a lighter outer jacket as well as a mid-layer. Zipped clothes help to ventilate and help you to last longer in them. For the close-to-body area, wear a moisture-wicking garment to avoid sweating.

– On the head and neck

Wearing a helmet is compulsory, but a hat or ski straps may not be necessary. For the neck you can wear a lighter garment that will still protect you from the cold in the early hours of the morning and that you can keep in your pocket when it gets warmer.

– Goggles

Of course, goggles are essential all season and even more so in these months when the sun reflects much more on the snow.

– Gloves

Although the thermometer starts to rise, don’t leave them at home, because they also protect you from the sun. If you prefer, you can choose thinner gloves that will make you sweat less.

Els Llacs and ski pass offer

You’ll love coming skiing in spring, and you’ll see that you’ll get a better price than at other times of the season… And even more if you take advantage of our offer with accommodation and ski pass in Grandvalira 😉. You are guaranteed a 10% discount if you book through our website.

So now that you know what it’s like to ski in spring in Andorra, all you need to do is choose your flat and book with the ski pass.

apartamentos con perro

Andorra with a dog at Easter Week

pet friendly,  nature in Andorra,  our apartmentsPosted on

Don’t leave anyone at home this Easter! Our flats in Bordes d’Envalira are spacious and pet-friendly so you can stay comfortably with your pet as one of the family. 
In April, the days are usually sunny and the temperatures are pleasant. So we invite you to discover some of the hiking routes to enjoy with your dog this long weekend and to rest in the most relaxed way at Els Llacs Mountain Apartments. 
Let’s go with the routes! They are very easy itineraries that you can do with a small dog or even if you are travelling with a senior dog.

 

Walks through beautiful landscapes with your dog 

For this occasion we recommend the Camí de les Pardines, located in Encamp, which goes from Els Cortals to Engolasters lake. It is a gravel path of approximately 3.5 kilometres at an altitude of 1,700 metres with views of the village of Encamp. Access is easy both from Els Cortals d’Encamp and from Engolasters lake. Along the way you will come across a botanical garden and a small waterfall, as well as being able to see an old coal bunker. Your pet will have a great time outdoors enjoying nature.

 

A path in Andorra la Vella

This route is also very easy to access, suitable for the whole family and for your dog. The Rec de Solà is in Andorra la Vella at the foot of the Pico del Carroi. It is a cobbled path that follows a small irrigation stream with views of the towns of Andorra la Vella and Escaldes. It is practically flat with a distance of about 3 kilometres, ideal to do in spring in the middle of the day to enjoy the sun and a relaxing walk with your pet. The path also has a small picnic area where you can stop for a snack. 

 

The Camí de les Fonts in Engolasters

Another route to do with your pet is the fountain trail in Engolasters, in Escaldes. This is an easy route that you can enjoy at this time of year. You will walk through the forest and the route has only a slight slope. Halfway along the route there is a viewpoint with spectacular views of the valley and the church of Sant Miquel d’Engolasters. On this circuit your pet will have a great time walking in nature.
Bonus: when you reach the end of the path, if the day is fine and you feel like walking a little further, you can start the ascent to the Coll Jovell, with views over the Madriu Valley. When you get there, you can return along the same path or, after about 50 metres on the left, take the Costa de l’Avet path to the picnic area and the Closa fountain. From there, you can take the forest track that will take you to the road (where you will come across a sculpture) where you will turn left to go to the Engolasters huts. At this point, you should take the stone path that passes between the huts and crosses the forest until you reach a crossroads. Take the one on the right, indicated by yellow circles, until you reach the road. After going down a few metres, you will come to the Camí del Cortalet, on the left hand side. A wide path with little slope that will take you back to the Camí de les Fonts. 

Travelling with your dog to Andorra 

To come to Andorra with your dog you must comply with the following requirements: 
– They must be identified with a chip. 
– Be vaccinated against rabies. 
– Have the pet passport duly signed and stamped. 

Flats to stay with your dog 

Enjoy the Easter long weekend in Andorra with your pet in complete comfort. At Els Llacs Mountain Apartments we are pet friendly so you won’t leave any member of the family at home.  

actividades après-ski

Make the most of the Easter long weekend with children

nature in Andorra,  ski and winter sports,  Uncategorized,  with childrenPosted on

This Easter you are not going to want to miss anything that’s going on in Andorra.
During the day: you won’t run out of Grandvalira Resorts slopes skiing or snowboarding with your children, or on your own while they learn to ski. When the slopes close: the fun continues! Andorra offers a wide range of après-ski activities to suit all tastes. You can make the most of the snow from morning to night, test yourself on ice, enjoy endless afternoons in a spa with the whole family or visit the chocolate factory in La Massana.
This Easter you will spend a crazy long weekend with your children!

Snowtubbing for the first time in Pas de la Casa

On 28 January Grandvalira opened the longest snow tubing slope in Europe. It can reach 60 km/hour and has a length of 350 metres, with turns and two tunnels that go under the slope, to make the experience much more exciting. The Easter long weekend is an excellent opportunity to try it out and let off some adrenaline with the family. It is suitable for children from 6 years old. The day pass and multi-day Andorra Pass include 1 free descent per pass, as well as the NordPass from 4 days (in all modalities except for children under 6 years old).

Palau de Gel après-ski activities

Have fun on ice at the Olympic ice rink in Canillo. Challenge your children to a go-kart race on ice or put on some skates and enjoy some skating time. The rink is indoor and the Palau de Gel offers other services such as a swimming pool, climbing wall, tennis and squash courts. It is located in the village of Canillo, just 15 minutes by car from the apartaments.

Wellness and spas for children

One of the most traditional après-ski activities in Andorra is to finish in the spa after a day of skiing. Without leaving the flats you can relax in our spa (at no extra charge) and take a bath in the jacuzzi with mountain views or relax in the sauna.
You can also venture out to discover the thermal lagoons of the Caldea Thermoludic with your family. And if you go with children from 3 to 8 years old, they can access Likids, the children-only spa of the most famous thermal centre in the country.
We recommend you book in advance to make sure you get a place.

Après-ski continues in the snow

If you like to enjoy the snow from morning to night, discover the forest under the moonlight on a snowmobile. The experience takes place in the Grau Roig sector of Grandvalira, which is very close to Els Llacs Mountain Apartments. Can you imagine exploring the forest at night on a snowmobile? The activity is suitable for children and young people, although those aged 6 to 17 must be accompanied by an adult.

Visit to the chocolate factory

And if you’ve come this far, you’re in for a very sweet surprise: Xocland, the chocolate factory in La Massana. Here you will discover how the cocoa beans are processed, following the whole process, and at the end of the visit you will have the chance to taste the chocolate. There are delicacies to suit all tastes, from dark chocolate with 90% cocoa to white and milk chocolate. They also have a wide variety of products such as chocolates, bars, pralines and their speciality, xoca: a combination of various chocolates with biscuits, fruit and other ingredients.
This activity is sure to be a hit with the youngest members of the household. The chocolate factory schedules visits on Saturday afternoons.

With these après-ski activities you won’t be able to resist coming to enjoy Easter in Andorra. Book your accommodation.

actividades de invierno

Snow activities for the whole family in Grandvalira Resorts

with children,  nature in Andorra,  ski and winter sportsPosted on

Andorra is the perfect destination for skiing, but also for enjoying the snow in many different ways. If you love skiing or snowboarding, it’s perfect because you can combine your passion with many other activities. If this is not the case, don’t worry, because you can also have fun in the snow without getting on a board. 
In this blog we tell you about some of the winter activities to do with the family in the different resorts of Grandvalira Resorts.

Mon(t) Magic in Canillo 

This children’s circuit, located in the Canillo sector of Grandvalira, is the ideal place for the little ones and where the older ones can also join them in some winter activities. It is easily accessible by the Canillo cable car or you can get there on skis.

Get your adrenaline pumping on the Tyrolean traverse

Experience the sensation of flying on the Grandvalira zip line, 40 metres above the ground, over a distance of 550 metres. Fly over the Forn lake, surrounded by nature, in seated, stretched or tandem mode with your child. 

Slide down the Magic Gliss with the family 

A giant slide located outdoors in the middle of nature awaits you. It is 555 metres down and 180 metres up. You can go down it at up to 40 km/h.

Excursions to suit all tastes 

Among the most popular winter activities are trips to the snow to discover the forests and the most unusual landscapes of the seasons. Near Els Llacs Mountain Apartments, in the Grau Roig adventure centre, you’ll find snowshoeing excursions on snowy trails up to icy lakes with a guide. You can also explore the Moretó forest on a snowmobile and… why not, sign up for this adventure at night. Finally, go deep into the white landscapes enjoying an excursion on a dog sled, driving the mushing or as a passenger, an experience that will stay with you forever!

Winter activities also in Pal Arinsal 

This time, head to the other valley to discover the resort of Pal Arinsal and its wide range of activities. You’ll love going sledging with your children. Pal offers two slopes with conveyor belts so you can go up comfortably and more quickly to enjoy the descent. Next to the sledging track you will find another of the most popular activities: the Big Airbag. You can test yourself by jumping from 3 different heights on a giant mattress. Finally, if you go with children aged 14 and over, you can try the Moonbikes and go on an excursion on these electric motorbikes that offer a new way of enjoying winter activities.

What’s coming up: Snowtubbing by DOTS in Pas de la Casa

This season will see the premiere of this activity where fun and laughter are guaranteed. Snowtubbing will be located in Pas de la Casa where you will be able to slide along 350 metres and where you will be able to reach 60 km/h (it will be the longest tubing slope in Europe). It is scheduled to open during the season and will be available in the afternoon when the slopes are closed. It can also be enjoyed in summer. 

Els Llacs Mountain Apartment

We assure you that you won’t get bored here, as you have the possibility to choose different winter activities every day of the week if you want. We assure you the best rest in one of our holiday flats with capacity for up to 11 people. Ideal for a holiday or a family getaway. What’s more, you won’t have to leave anyone at home because we are also Pet Friendly and your pets are also welcome. 

So all you need to do is choose your flat in Bordes de Envalira and book your accommodation at the foot of Grandvalira.

valle-del-madriu

Discover the Madriu Valley of Andorra

nature in Andorra,  hiking, mountain and summer sports,  with childrenPosted on

Make the most of this summer and discover one of the most outstanding natural sites in Andorra. The Madriu, Perafita and Claror Valley is the only natural park in the Pyrenees declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It covers an area of almost 4,250 hectares, occupying 4 parishes: Encamp, Andorra la Vella, Sant Julià de Lòria and Escaldes Engordany, which represents 10% of the total surface area of the country. Are you coming to discover it?

 

What to do in the Madriu valley?

From the natural park you can reach peaks, the highest of which is La Portella at 2905 metres, and some thirty lakes, such as La Illa (the second largest in Andorra). This area is home to 70% of the native species of the Pyrenees, including birds, reptiles, mammals and fish.

The Madriu Valley is important for its natural value and also for its cultural heritage, as it is testimony to the action of man through agriculture, livestock farming and iron and steel industry. There are still some buildings such as small huts and the remains of the Escaldes forge, testimony to the activity that was carried out in this natural area.  

 

Hiking routes

The Madriu Valley has an endless number of routes for all levels and of different distances. Whether you want to go for a midday stroll with the whole family and climb up to Ramio, or if you are a mountain enthusiast and want to take advantage of the first rays of light to climb up to Estany Blau or Illa Lake. The park is part of thematic routes such as the Coronallacs, a biodiversity itinerary or an itinerary about the iron and steel industry, among others.

The starting points for the excursions can be made from many points in the parishes of Encamp, Andorra la Vella, Sant Julià or Escaldes.

If you prefer to be accompanied, you can hire professional mountain guides. Don’t hesitate to contact us. 

 

Climbing and via ferrata

Fans of this sport will find in the Madriu Valley an ideal place to practise it or to learn it, as it has different routes with different degrees of difficulty. 

 

Activities in the Madriu Valley

During the summer, the park organises thematic talks, routes and activities that take place in different parts of the natural park, to bring this protected area closer to the public.

You can consult all the activities offered in the valley here. 

 

How to get to the Madriu Valley?

It is accessible from the parishes of Encamp, Andorra la Vella, Sant Julià and Escaldes.

You can get there by public transport or in your own car. Nearby you’ll find blue zone or barrier car parks so you can park comfortably.

 

This summer is all about having adventures, enjoying the mountains and nature. So pack good shoes and suitable clothing and enjoy the hike.

valle-de-incles

3 hiking routes in the Incles Valley of Andorra

hiking, mountain and summer sports,  nature in Andorra,  with childrenPosted on

Not far from our flats you’ll find one of the most beautiful valleys in Andorra, an area rich in the country’s local flora and fauna, and the starting point for many hiking routes.

We warn you: one visit and you’ll want to come back until you get to know all its hidden corners.

 

Excursions from the Incles Valley

This summer enjoy the mountain in all its magnificence: nature, lakes, forests… Get good shoes and suitable clothing, we’re going hiking!

 

Hiking route to the lakes of Juclà

This is one of the best known itineraries in the Incles Valley. It starts at the end of the road crossing the Incles river, following a forest track until you reach the Travenc crossroads, where the valley opens up and you can take a rest while you admire the spectacular views. Through the forest you will come across black pines and colourful rhododendrons. Once you have passed the river Travenc, continue to the left along a steeper path to the Juclà plain and climb up to the first lake of Juclà. This is home to the Pyrenean newt, a species that lives in high mountain lakes because of the purity of their waters.

From this point you can continue on to the sheltered refuge and to the Segon del Juclà lake and thus complete the route. This is a route of moderate difficulty with a 465-metre drop and a distance of 4.57 kilometres.

 

Hiking in the Incles Valley to Siscaró

The second excursion we propose will take you to the first lake of Siscaró. It also starts at the end of the Incles valley and when you reach the Travenc crossroads you have to take the path on the right. You will go up the side of the river until you reach the Siscaró ponds. Follow these rafts that will take you to the Basers rafts and finally to the first one at the lake. In this area you will find the common trout, squirrels and roe deer or varieties of birds such as the alpine pipit, the alpine accentor and the grey wheatear. You will also be able to see the sisallo cane, a kind of plant that gives the lake a greenish hue. The route is a little shorter than the previous one, 3.58 kilometres long and with a gradient of 500 metres. It is also a medium level excursion.

 

Mountain hike to the Cabana Sorda lake

This hiking route starts at the Comellassos spring halfway along the Incles Valley road. After entering the Pinosa forest, you will go through a ravine and climb up to the Assaladors de Cabana Sorda. Cross an alpine meadow until you reach a small pass and continue to the river to reach the Cabana Sorda lake at an altitude of 2290 metres. The refuge is very close by. The itinerary is of moderate level, 2.76 kilometres long and 470 metres of difference in altitude.

 

Discover the valley as a family with a fun game

If you want to go with children and have a great time as a family, you can do so with an activity that takes place exclusively in the Incles valley.

The game “Busca’ls” proposes 6 different itineraries along which you will have to search for a series of clues.  At the tourist office in Canillo and Incles you will be given a leaflet in which you will have to follow the instructions. Do you dare to find them all?

Once you have completed the challenge, you can return to the offices to receive your diploma and a gift (there are gifts for children and adults) and more surprises.

 

How to get to the Incles Valley

Located between Soldeu and El Tarter, you can get there by car and park at the beginning of the valley (pay parking, blue zone). Go to the bottom, where most of the excursions start, on foot or by electric train. This eco-friendly means of transport runs from June to September from 9am to 6pm (cost €3 each way).

If you have any questions, there is a small tourist office at the bottom of the valley where you can get all the information you need.

 

This summer there are still plenty of things to do in Andorra. Make a note of our best plans and book accommodation in our mountain apartments.

parques-aventuras

Adventure parks and activities in Andorra to enjoy the summer

with children,  nature in AndorraPosted on

Experience a different kind of summer with your children in Andorra’s adventure parks. Discover all the activities on offer for the whole family to enjoy the summer. From mid-June until September, they are open to enjoy nature and the great outdoors in the mountains. Are you up for it?

 

Mon(t) Magic in Canillo

This is Grandvalira’s adventure park located in Canillo in an impressive natural setting between a lake and forests. It offers outdoor activities for young and old and also has a restaurant.  

There is an exclusive area for children with water activities in the Forn lake, for the whole family, such as water scooters and canoes. The Magic Gliss slide reaches 40km/h and offers a 3D experience to make the activity even more amazing. And above all, don’t leave without going on the zip line that flies over the lake and take the Fornatura route to discover the fauna and flora of the area. 

To get to Mon(t) Magic you have to take the car to Canillo and take the cable car, the only possible access but which will give you magnificent panoramic views of the area.

Mon(t) Magic Canillo Open daily from 18 June to 11 September and weekends from 12 September to 9 October.

 

Naturland and Tobotronc

This year Naturland presents new proposals in the heart of nature.

One of the best known is the Tobotronc, the longest alpine nature toboggan run in the world, which runs for 5.3 km through the Rabassa forest.

If you are a lover of mountain biking, there are circuits adapted to all levels and also for families, both for mountain bikes and electric bikes. One of its star activities is the Airtrekk, a route of ropes and platforms where you will test your balance and end up throwing yourself down the zip line. Other proposals are the buggies and the xtrem jump, on a 4 m. high platform.  The park also has two guided excursions. 

You can reach the park by car. To do so, head for Sant Julià de Lòria, in the southern part of the country, and get ready for a great day out!

 

Vallnord in summer

The Vallnord ski resort is no slouch when it comes to outdoor activities in summer. On the one hand, you’ll find the Mountain Park, an adventure park with a zip line, a rope attraction and an electric go-kart circuit for young and old. But Vallnord is best known in summer for Bike Park, which hosts a world MBT championship and has more than 60 kilometres of circuits for all types of mountain biking with your mountain bike and also has routes for e-bikes.

To get there you have to go to La Massana and take the cable car which is located in the centre of this town. It will leave you in Pal.

 

The new Tibetan bridge in Canillo

This summer you have a new attraction to try out: the new Tibetan bridge in Canillo, in operation since 11 June.  With a total length of 603 metres, it is the second longest footbridge of its kind in the world. It is at an altitude of 1,875 metres and flies 158 metres over the Vall del Riu. The structure is minimalist, one metre wide, and the walkway is one-way. It is located right next to the famous Roc del Quer viewpoint. To get there you have to head to Canillo and take the public bus that will drop you at the gates of the Tibetan bridge (you can also go in your own car and enjoy the views of the Mountaup road as you drive). The attraction is a pay-as-you-go attraction and offers a package with the walkway, transport and viewing platform (this is optional). Booking is compulsory as capacity is limited.

 

Enjoy a summer full of activities in Andorra, always in contact with nature. Book accommodation at Els Llacs Mountain Apartments and extend the fun.

Which adventure park would you like to start with?

 

Pas-de-la-Casa

What to do in the Pas de la Casa in summer

nature in Andorra,  hiking, mountain and summer sportsPosted on

Near Els Llacs Mountain Apartments lies Pas de la Casa, an Andorran town on the border with France, which in both winter and summer is full of fun and activities.

In winter, skiing and snow sports; and in summer, mountain routes and hiking. All year round, one activity that is a must in Pas de la Casa is shopping, which perfectly complements the rest of the activities on offer.

Today, we’ll tell you about the main attractions you’ll find to enjoy a day or more in this town.

Excursion to Les Abelletes Lake

If you are looking for nature, you will also find it in Pas de la Casa. We suggest an excursion on foot to the lake of Les Abelletes, the natural border between Andorra and France. The curious thing about this lake is that half of it belongs to the Principality and the other half to the neighbouring country. 

The starting point is the Coll dels Isards chairlift in Grandvalira. Following the mountain track you will reach the lake, which is situated at an altitude of 2800 metres. The route is 8 km long (round trip) and it only takes 1 hour to get there. It is a path that you can’t miss, easy to access and can be done with children.

We recommend you check the weather conditions before starting the walk to avoid surprises, as the weather in the mountains can change quickly.

Shopping in Pas de la Casa

If there is one thing the town of Pas de la Casa is known for, it is its wide range of shops. You can do all kinds of shopping: perfumes and cosmetics, clothes to create your best outfits, electronics or motorcycling accessories. In fact, it is very common for French tourists to come to Pas de la Casa to buy these products. In summer, you’ll find sales from 23 June to 5 September, and you can also buy snow equipment in the outlet sports shops.

All over Pas de la Casa you will find cafés, bars and restaurants where you can stop for a drink and a bite to eat. It should be noted that the climate in summer is much more pleasant than in other places (and even more so in recent years when the heat has become much more intense in many towns). In Pas de la Casa the climate is high mountain, cool in the morning and evening and hot at midday. Although it is not unusual to see snow in August.

The sports centre

Pas de la Casa has a sports centre with gymnasium, swimming pool, solarium, paddle tennis and squash courts which is open to the public for an entrance fee. It is used by many sports teams for pre-season training at altitude. This winter it has even hosted the filming of the movie 42 seconds, by Dani de la Orden, starring Jaime Lorente (La Casa de Papel).

 

The Envalira Mountain Pass

To get to Pas de la Casa you can go through the tunnel or through the mountain pass of Envalira and enjoy the views. At the top of the pass you will find a viewpoint. Stop for a moment to admire the landscape. It has a small parking area, benches to sit and breathe in the fresh air and a small hut made from the wood of the first hut in Pas de la Casa. From there, on one side you will see the town centre and on the other, the mountains and peaks that form the Pessons glacier.

The Envalira pass is the highest pass in the Pyrenees. It is at an altitude of 2,400 metres and has seen the fastest riders in the 2021 Tour de France.

El Pas de la Casa is a village surrounded by mountains at the foot of the slopes and in summer it is the starting point for many hiking excursions. It is near Els Llacs Mountain Apartments and is one of the visits you can make while staying in the flats.

If you want more plans like this, be sure to read our blog.

 

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