Get ready to start the ski season in December

ski and winter sports, Andorra apartments offers 6 de November de 20246 de November de 2024

December means the start of the ski season and many people are eagerly awaiting its arrival to hit the slopes. If you also feel the need to put on your ski boots again, here are some tips to help you get organised with everything you need to make the most of your first snowy getaway!

1. Choose and book your accommodation at the foot of the slopes

One of the keys is to stay close to the resort to save time, avoid long journeys and last-minute queues. Another fundamental point is to book accommodation in advance to ensure your stay. Especially on dates as busy as the long weekend in December, when occupancy is high.

Book your accomodation in Andorra

At Els Llacs Mountain Apartments we have all the facilities: on our website you can buy the complete package of Apartment and ski pass in Grandvalira. You’ll also get an additional 10% discount, even on bookings for the long weekend in December! We have a good location in Bordes de Envalira, near the Peretol access to Grandvalira, between Soldeu and Grau Roig. For greater comfort, we offer you additional services such as ski lockers and free access to the spa, ideal for relaxing after a day of snow. Check here all the services of our apartments.

2. Have your ski equipment ready in advance

Once you’ve booked your stay, it’s time to check your ski equipment. Take note, it tends to deteriorate over time, and there’s nothing worse than arriving on the mountain and discovering it’s in poor condition.
Do a complete overhaul: check that your skis are well waxed, that your bindings are working properly and that your boots are in good condition. Check gloves, goggles, helmet and ski poles.
Another alternative available is to rent equipment, an option we also offer at Els Llacs Mountain Apartments. Write to us when you make your booking and we will advise you.

3. Make sure you have the right clothing

It’s also a good idea to try on your clothes before the long weekend in December so that you have everything ready.
Here is a basic checklist of the equipment you need:

Thermal under layers: choose underwear and a thermal T-shirt to keep you warm.
Fleece or second layer: ideal for retaining body heat without restricting movement.
Anorak and waterproof trousers: to resist the snow and keep you dry.
Essential accessories: helmet, waterproof gloves, suitable socks, neck warmer and sunglasses or goggles.

4. Keep in good physical condition

Skiing demands a lot of leg strength, so preparing your body before the season is a point you can’t overlook. You can start including leg and core strengthening exercises in your routine. This will not only help you enjoy skiing more, but also help you avoid injuries and overtiredness.

5. Consider booking ski lessons

If you’re a beginner or haven’t skied in a while, it’s a good idea to book some lessons with professional instructors. There are options for all levels and ages, from beginner courses where you’ll gain confidence with confidence to advanced classes to progress and improve your technique.
Remember that the first weekend in December and the Christmas and New Year’s Eve dates are high season and it is always best to book in advance. Els Llacs Mountain Apartments can also help you.

6. Check the forecast and the state of the slopes

Before jumping on your boards, it is important to know the state of the slopes and the weather. Grandvalira publishes daily updates on snow conditions and open slopes, which will help you plan your days better. The weather forecast is key to deciding which days are the most favourable for skiing or if you should modify your ski itinerary.

7. Plan your après-ski activities

The après-ski experience doesn’t end on the slopes: après-ski is the perfect time to enjoy with friends or family! Andorra offers endless options, such as spas, restaurants, bars, shops… Discover them here.

December is the perfect time to start the ski season. Take advantage of these tips and make sure everything is ready to enjoy an unforgettable holiday in the snow. Book your accommodation at the foot of the slopes and prepare your equipment to make the most of every minute on the mountain.
See you on the slopes!

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.

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.

How to get to Andorra?

our apartments 22 de May de 202422 de May de 2024

Andorra is located in the heart of the Pyrenees, between France and Spain, just 200 kilometres from Barcelona and Toulouse. It is the perfect destination for a getaway at any time of the year. Whether you are looking for active mountain sports and activities, relaxation or shopping. One of the first steps when planning a trip is to know how to get there and the options available.
Below, we’ll tell you about all the ways to get to the Principality to make your trip as enjoyable as your stay. So, if you are thinking of booking a flat in the mountains, read on to find out how to get there the way you prefer.

Getting to Andorra by private car

This is one of the most common options. From Spain, take the C-14 road, passing through La Seu d’Urgell, straight to the Andorran border. From France, take the N-22 from Foix and cross the border at Pas de la Casa.
Bear in mind that in the winter months it is compulsory to carry special equipment to be able to drive on snow, such as wheel chains or snow tyres.

– Getting around Andorra

Once in Andorra, you will find several public parking options that are chargeable. Our appartments have a private, covered car park. The service is charged at €15 per night per vehicle.
Coming by car gives you greater freedom of movement to get around Andorra. Furthermore, if you are travelling with your pet, it is the best option for taking your pet with you, allowing you to enjoy the journey at your own pace and make as many stops as you like.

Travelling to Andorra by bus

If you prefer not to drive, getting to Andorra by bus is another option. There are direct connections from Barcelona, Lleida or Toulouse with several companies that connect these cities and the centre of Andorra la Vella. You can reach the country in just 3 hours and 15 minutes.
Check the timetables and the companies that operate to the country here.

Coming by train from other cities

The first thing you should know is that the train does not reach Andorra, but there are options if you are coming from further afield, combined with the final journey by bus. From France, the nearest station is L’Hospitalet-près-l’Andorre, just 11 kilometres from the French border, which is served by trains from other points, such as Toulouse. If you are coming from Spain, you can travel to Lleida-Pirineus station by AVE high-speed train from Madrid or Barcelona, and take a bus from Lérida to Andorra to complete your journey.

Arriving by plane from Madrid

From the end of 2022 it is possible to reach Andorra from Madrid by air with a regular weekly flight between the airports of Andorra-La Seu and Adolfo Suárez Madrid – Barajas. It is the ideal connection if you are coming from other countries with a connection to Spain. Andorra – La Seu airport, located near the border town of La Seu d’Urgell, is the closest airport to Andorra from Spain.
If you want to know the requirements for travelling to Andorra, check them here.

Plan your holidays in Andorra and book your accommodation

Els Llacs Mountain Apartments are located in Bordes de Envalira, in the parish of Canillo, at the foot of Grandvalira. It is the ideal accommodation at any time of the year to enjoy all the activities that Andorra has to offer.
Book your flat through our website to benefit from the best prices and offers (which you can also accumulate to get even better prices).

7 Reasons to choose Els Llacs Mountain Apartments this Easter

our apartments, pet friendly, ski and winter sports, with children 7 de March de 20248 de March de 2024

Discover why our apartments in Andorra are the perfect choice for an unforgettable Easter in the mountains with your pet, with unique spaces, spa and more!
Els Llacs is the ideal place for those looking for comfort and proximity to the ski slopes. If you are planning a family holiday this year and you don’t want to leave your dog at home, discover why booking our flats is your best option. And with the recent snowfall at the beginning of March, this year’s long weekend promises to be a great one, so get your suitcase ready!

Accomodation in Andorra for Easter

Els Llacs are not just a place to stay; they are your second home in the heart of Grandvalira. Big, beautiful, and comfortable. Each space is designed to meet your every need. The typical mountain decoration, with the use of noble materials such as wood, creates a warm and cosy atmosphere that invites you to relax after a day of activities in the snow.

Complete equipment for a carefree stay

From fully equipped kitchens to modern bathrooms and bedrooms with high quality bedding, everything is designed for your comfort. Imagine preparing a hot meal after a day’s skiing or curling up in your bed with a view of the snow-capped mountains.
And because we like to take care of you, we’ve put together a welcome pack with everything you need to make you feel at home.

Apartments in Andorra with spa and gym

The spa, with its outdoor jacuzzi and mountain views, is simply spectacular. It’s the perfect place to relax once you get back to the flats. If you want to keep active, the gym offers a range of workout options. What you’ll be most pleased to know is that the spa and gym are included in the price of your stay.

Pet Friendly: your pets are welcome

At Els Llacs Mountain Apartments you can come with your pet and enjoy your holiday together. We understand that your four-legged friend is part of the family, which is why we accept pets in our flats in Andorra.

Flats in Andorra with excellent location

You’ll be just a short drive from Andorra’s best ski slopes. The location, in Bordes de Envalira, is ideal for those seeking the tranquillity of the mountains, but who also want easy access to the slopes, activities and entertainment.
The nearest sector of Grandvalira is El Peretol, but Grau Roig and Soldeu are also close by, just 5 minutes away by car. From both you can start snow activities to combine with skiing or to dedicate a whole day to it. In Soldeu, you can also enjoy après-ski in restaurants and nightlife venues. Another nearby town is Pas de la Casa, where you can ski or spend an afternoon shopping in its many shops. It is another of Andorra’s important commercial hubs.

Activities and entertainment in Andorra at Easter

From skiing to exploring the rich local culture and gastronomy, Andorra offers a wide range of activities for all tastes and ages.
The resorts offer all kinds of snow-related activities, excursions, igloo building, zip-lines and sledging tracks, among others. But the country also offers a variety of museums and cultural activities suitable for all ages. There is also a wide range of restaurants, cafés and bars. And of course, the shopping that combines perfectly with the rest of the activities.
You won’t get bored and you won’t run out of things to do!

Book your Easter break

Choosing our flats in Andorra for your Easter break is a guarantee of an unforgettable experience. We offer you all the facilities to make sure that your Easter break is exactly as you imagined it. Booking your stay at Els Llacs Moutain Apartments is easy, flexible and you get a 10% discount when you book through our website, book your flat now!

getaway in andorra