1- It’s an incredibly mountainous country.
Situated in the Pyrenees Mountain Range, over 90% of Andorra’s land is covered by mountains, with Coma Pedrosa being the highest peak at 2,943 meters (9,656 ft) above sea level. Its landscape attracts outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers from all over the world.
2- Has the highest capital in Europe.
Andorra la Vella is the capital city of the Principality of Andorra, located in the southwest of the country. It holds the distinction of being the highest capital city in Europe, with an elevation of 1,023 meters (3,356 feet) above sea level. With a population of around 22,000, it boasts stunning mountain scenery, historical landmarks, and lively shopping districts.
3- You can explore the whole country in a day.
Despite its small size (468 km2), Andorra can be traversed entirely on foot, making it a paradise for hikers. The GR7, a long-distance trail that extends from the Mediterranean to Andorra, passes through the country and provides breathtaking views along the way.
4- It has more than 300 km of ski slopes.
Andorra is a top winter sports destination in Europe. It has numerous ski resorts, including Grandvalira and Vallnord, that offer a wide range of activities, from skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and ice skating.
Grandvalira (210 km of slopes) is the largest ski resort in Andorra (and Southern Europe). Located in the mountains of the Valira river valley, this resort has different entry points (from Encamp to Pas de la Casa).
Vallnord – Pal Arinsal (63 km of slopes) is situated in the valleys of the Valira Nord river. Its first access town is La Massana, a 5-minute drive from Andorra la Vella and Escaldes-Engordany. It has two distinct and interconnected sectors, Pal and Arinsal, both accessible by cable cars and free transportation during winter provided by the resort.
Ordino – Arcalís (30 km of slopes) is a ski resort located in the Parish of Ordino. Since 2019, it has been commercially managed together with Grandvalira and is no longer part of the “Vallnord” brand. Its 4-day pass or longer allows for a day of skiing in Grandvalira. It has a strong ski school with a specialized area in Freeride (off-piste skiing).
In addition to these three ski resorts in Andorra, there are also two other ski areas:
La Rabassa-Naturland: It has the only cross country skiing slopes in Andorra, 15km for all levels.
El Canaro: Exclusive slopes for beginners. Ideal for parents who don’t ski with their children who are learning. It has a bar-restaurant with a sunny terrace and views of the slopes, as well as a good ski school for beginner children and adults in skiing and snowboarding.
5- It has amazing terrain for freeride and heliskiing.
Andorra is also a haven for freeride and heliski enthusiasts. The country’s steep slopes and fresh powder make it an ideal destination for those seeking an adrenaline rush. A stage of the Freeride World Tour competition is held every year in Andorra’s ski resort of Ordino Arcalís, positioning the country in the top places for freeride globally.
But if you like freeriding and flying, what you have to try is heli-skiing at Grandvalira Resorts.
This activity is suitable for skiers with a good level of skiing and previous off-piste experience. You can do sessions of 2, 4, or 6 lifts and descents in the areas enabled for freeriding. The activity is carried out in groups of a minimum of 4 people and a maximum of 8, and you’ll be accompanied at all times by an expert guide who will monitor the weather conditions and the safety of the group.
6- Andorra is a co-principality.
Andorra is a unique co-principality, as it has two heads of state: the Bishop of Urgell in Catalonia, Spain, and the President of France. This unusual arrangement dates back to 1278 and has shaped Andorra’s history and culture. The co-princes share powers in the governance of the country, and the Andorran people elect a General Council to represent them in the government. Despite being a co-principality, Andorra is a sovereign state with its own constitution and government.
7- One of the oldest countries in the world.
Andorra is considered one of the oldest countries in the world due to its rich cultural heritage and a long history that dates back to pre-Roman times. The country has been inhabited since at least 5,000 BC, and it has been under various rulers throughout its history, including the Visigoths, the Moors, and the Carolingians. In 1278, Andorra became a co-principality, which has shaped its history and culture ever since. Today, visitors can explore the country’s many historic landmarks, including ancient churches, castles, and museums that offer a glimpse into Andorra’s fascinating past.
Sources: www.visitandorra.com
www.globalskier.com research team.
