An autumn tour to discover the cultural richness of Andorra

Culture & Art in Andorra, with children 8 de October de 20248 de October de 2024

The autumn in Andorra is a season that offers not only spectacular, colourful landscapes, but also an opportunity to discover its history and culture. With the cooler days and the autumnal atmosphere, there is no better time to go on a museum tour. From world-class art to local history, you’ll find a variety of museums in the Principality that will make you see the country from a whole new perspective.
Best of all, you can make Els Llacs Mountain Apartments your base camp on this tour. This is where your tour of Andorra’s museums begins.

La Casa de la Vall: a must-see

History and culture are kept alive in the walls of this house museum. For a long time it was the most important house in Andorra. It was built at the end of the 16th century and until 2011 was the seat of the Consell General (the Andorran parliament).

– Discover its secrets

Today, you can visit various rooms that explain part of the history and where some of the most important decisions for the country have been taken. You can visit the Room of the Lost Steps, a noble room decorated with original murals from the 16th century. As well as the session room, the kitchen and symbolic elements such as the bell used to summon the Plenary and the Cupboard of the Seven Keys, which houses key historical documents of Andorra. The exterior is also worth a visit for its architecture and its location in the heart of the old quarter of Andorra la Vella.

Discovering Andorra’s ancient crafts

The Rossell Forge is an interactive museum to discover how iron production worked between the 17th and 19th centuries. A real forge that operated from 1842 to 1876 has been reconstructed to show the whole process through an interactive experience with audiovisuals. You will also be able to witness live the use of the hammer, a key part of the old iron production. It is located on the outskirts of La Massana, in the northern valley of Andorra.

The history of electricity in Andorra

Andorra’s energy production is closely linked to the country’s economic growth in the 1930s. The MW electricity museum explores concepts such as energy, electric current and how electricity is generated in a hydroelectric power station, as well as showing the evolution of electrification in Andorra during the 20th century. The last room offers interactive experiments to understand electrical phenomena, and exhibits the two original generators of the power station, installed in 1934.

The Carmen Thyssen Museum is a must for art lovers.

Carmen Thyssen’s prestigious private collection is on display here. Through a carefully themed line, this museum offers a unique artistic experience, located in a historic building in the heart of the country.
Even if you have already visited it, it is worth coming back, as the exhibition changes every year, always offering new and surprising works to discover. On this occasion, the exhibition ‘Sons. Musical Analogies in Painting’ explores how sound is present in painting, with a multi-sensory experience.

Andorra Museum Tour

In order to make the most of your visit to Andorra’s museums, we recommend you purchase the PassMuseu, available at any of them. This pass offers you discounts at numerous museums and monuments in the country, allowing you to enjoy a complete cultural experience.
To make your tour even more special, we have selected some of the most outstanding museums, distributed throughout the country, so that as well as exploring the culture, you will discover unique corners of Andorra.

Autumn fills the mountains with vibrant colours and is also the perfect season to immerse yourself in our impressive cultural wealth. Book your accommodation in Andorra.

Andorra awaits you with the most original plans for autumn

Culture & Art in Andorra, nature in Andorra 19 de September de 202418 de September de 2024

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.

Early booking: special discounts for early winter bookings

ski and winter sports 4 de September de 202422 de August de 2024

Get ready! Winter ski season in Grandvalira is closer than you think, and soon you’ll be able to put on your boots and slide down the slopes. To make the waiting even more exciting, we have prepared an early booking offer that you will love: a 20% discount on the early booking of our Grandvalira ski pass and flat package. What’s more, this discount is in addition to the extra 10% for booking directly on the website. Look no further: this exclusive price can only be found on our website!
Want to know more about how to make the most of your ski season? Read on and discover all the details to live a unique experience in Grandvalira.

Start planning the season with our early booking

One of the main advantages of booking so far in advance is that you can be sure to travel on the dates you want and be able to choose the accommodation of your choice. Plus, you’ll get the best price with the Grandvalira and Els Llacs Mountain Apartments ski pass package.

– How can you book in advance?

The only way to get this offer is by booking through our website before the season starts. But not only will you be able to benefit from the early bird 20% discount on the ski package, but you will also get an additional 10% discount for booking through the website.
But hurry up because this discount will not always be available as places are limited.

– How do you pay for the booking at this early booking rate?

At the time of booking, when you select the dates and the flat, the discounts associated with your booking will automatically appear. Payment will be made by credit card at the time of booking and confirmation will be immediate.

Ski package with accommodation and ski pass

Our package includes accommodation at Els Llacs Mountain Apartments and the ski pass to Grandvalira, with a minimum of 2 nights. You can book it now on any date from 1 December until the end of the season, 20 April 2025. Make sure you book now to enjoy the best conditions and prices. Don’t wait for it to sell out, take advantage of our early booking and get ready for your ski holidays.

Holiday appartments with the best location

Not only will you find the best prices all year round, but we also offer you an unbeatable location in Bordes de Envalira, between the sectors of Grau Roig and Soldeu. Our holiday appartments are ideal to come skiing and enjoy your passion. You can reach the slopes comfortably with your own car or thanks to the transfer service that Grandvalira offers you from the El Peretol sector, the closest to Els Llacs.

Hotel services in pet-friendly luxury flats

Undoubtedly one of the differentiating factors of our flats is that you have everything without leaving the facilities.
When you come to ski you can comfortably store your equipment in our ski locker, monitored by video camera and free of charge. This way your equipment will be safe without having to carry it back to the flat.
If you wish, our flats also offer you the option of renting ski equipment and ski clothes.

– Relaxation and wellness

When you come back from the slopes you can warm up in our spa (included in the price of your stay), which has an indoor and outdoor jacuzzi with views of the mountains, a sauna and a Turkish bath. But if you wish, you can also book a massage (extra charge) to give you all the energy you need for another day’s skiing.

– Services that make the difference

And of course, you won’t have to leave anyone at home because in our accommodation pets are welcome (with prior reservation and extra charge).

And of course, you won’t have to leave anyone at home because in our accommodation pets are welcome (with previous reservation and extra charge).

Els Llacs Mountain Apartments, your accommodation in Andorra

Our appartments, with a charming style reminiscent of traditional mountain chalets, are built with stone and wood, blending in perfectly with the natural surroundings. They are spacious and comfortable, ideal for a getaway with friends, family or as a couple, and can accommodate from 2 to 11 people. You will be fascinated not only by their cosy atmosphere and spaciousness, but also by their complete equipment. Each flat is 100% prepared with everything you need to enjoy a getaway or an unforgettable holiday in the snow.

The ski season starts here!

Now that you know all the advantages and secrets to make the most of the ski season in Grandvalira, it’s time to take the next step. Secure your place on the slopes with our exclusive package, which includes a 20% early booking discount and an additional 10% discount when you book directly on our website.
Now all you need to do is start preparing your ski equipment and get everything ready.
See you soon in Andorra!

Family holidays in Andorra: the best plans for the summer

with children 10 de July de 2024

Are you looking for fun and different things to do with the family in summer? At Els Llacs Mountain Apartments we have what you need for this season. From an original outdoor plan in the heart of nature to an aquatic proposal that you can’t miss to cool off from the high temperatures of July and August.

Excursion in a 4×4 for the whole family to the lakes of Andorra

If you like spending time in nature, you’ll love this activity because it’s a different way of exploring nature on board a 4×4 vehicle.

– 4×4 excursion

This is an easy 32-kilometre route that lasts about 3.30 hours. Most of the tour is on forest tracks in 7-seater 4×4 vehicles, driven by the guide of the excursion. Please note that this is not an open road for private vehicles and can only be travelled on foot or with this type of excursion. Departure is from the reception of the flats or from the car park in the Grau Roig sector of Grandvalira.

– The Pla de les Pedres and Solanelles

During the route, you will go up the Tortuga ski slope, a route that leads to the Pla de les Pedres. Here, the little ones can enjoy the green meadows, explore the streams and watch the marmots in their natural habitat. Afterwards, you’ll head to Solanelles, at an altitude of 2,500 metres, where the whole family can marvel at the panoramic views of the Grandvalira ski resort.

– Cubil Lake and Pessons Lake

The next stop will be the Cubil Lake and to visit the historic orris, small stone buildings used by the high mountain shepherds. Finally, you will arrive at Pessons Lake, one of the most visited lakes in Andorra, perfect for a family photo with the Montmalús peak in the background.
Staying at Els Llacs Mountain Apartments, you will have the opportunity to take part in this original route through the mountains of Andorra. Book the 4×4 excursion with your stay and make your summer holidays unforgettable for the whole family!

Family activities in Andorra this summer

But don’t stop here, there are many more experiences to enjoy this summer in Andorra. Many of them, of course, are related to the mountains. In our blog we tell you about a host of family activities in Andorra. You can also sign up for very dynamic cultural plans, such as museum nights.
And we can’t forget the refreshing plans, like the one we suggest below.

Splash: the aquatic plan you can’t miss this summer

The little ones at home will love it and we’re sure parents will too . On this occasion, we offer you an activity that combines ice skating and the new Splash water slides. Both take place at the Palau de Gel in Canillo, about 10 minutes by car from the flats.

– Ice skating

When we tell you that Andorra has something for everyone, we’re not lying. Lower the temperature and put yourself to the test in the Olympic skating rink of Andorra. For this activity you’ll need long socks, long trousers and gloves.

– Splash

The ice palace in Canillo has opened 3 large water slides in its pool, 7 metres high and 53 metres long. It’s an experience not to be missed this summer: imagine your children’s laughter as they slide down Splash. You will need a swimming costume, flip-flops and a towel. The activity lasts one hour and you must know how to swim and be at least 1.20 cm tall.
Are you up for it? Book your offer with a flat in Andorra and Splash and ice skating.

At Els Llacs Mountain Apartments, we offer you the best family activities in Andorra for an unforgettable summer.

Everything you can do in the parish of Canillo in summer

hiking, mountain and summer sports, Culture & Art in Andorra, nature in Andorra, with children 7 de June de 20242 de June de 2024

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.

Discover mountain biking in Andorra

hiking, mountain and summer sports, nature in Andorra 8 de May de 20242 de May de 2024

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!

Activities in Andorra