Andorra

Types of trips: Snowsports, Exploration, Hiking, Geographical, Historical

Best known for: Catalan Language, Tobacco, Skiing, Hiking, Traditional Folk Dancing

Why Go?: One of the smallest countries in the world, Andorra is nestled in the Pyrenees mountain range and is full of charming churches, stunning scenery and fantastic ski slopes. It's a great place to go to get a different taste of European culture; while extremely close to France and Spain, Andorra has enough charisma and beauty to hold its own against them!

Fact File

Population: 85,000

Capital: Andorra la Vella

Language(s): Catalan, Spanish, French, Portuguese

Ties to the UK?: Popular holiday destination

Landscape: Mostly mountainous (located in the east of the Pyrenees mountain range), some large rivers in the valleys

Climate/Seasons: The higher elevation of the country means it's prone to snow in the winter November - February period, and the summers are slightly cooler than neighbouring countries with lower altitudes. 

When to Go: There are great things to do in both summer and winter in Andorra, as the landscape is excellent for both summer hiking and exploration and snowsports in winter.

Reasons to Visit: Andorra is a great place to go for both relaxation and excitement; the capital city Andorra La Vella is a busy shopping haven, while out in the mountains you can find ski resorts and opportunities for walks amongst some truly stunning scenery.

How to Get There: The small size of the country means that it doesn't have an international airport; the two closest are in Barcelona and Toulouse in Spain and France respectively, with good public transport links into the country from these other airports (mainly on the roads)

Places to Go: Vallnord (for snowsports), Andorra La Vella, Our Lady of Meritxell, Sant Julia de Loria, Encamp, Escaldes-Engordany, La Massana, Placa del Poble

Famous People: Ana Arce, Marta Roure, Juli Minoves

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Coma Pedrosea, Lake Engolasters, Pic de Medecourbe

History: Relatively isolated from a lot of historical events, main links with France, Spain and Portugal

Architecture: Eglesia de Sant Esteve

Culture: Catalan influenced music and dance

Sport: Football, Rugby, Basketball, Roller Hockey

Events: Winter Music Festival

Watch Out For: You should always exercise caution when in mountainous areas, and there is good up to date general info here

Medical Issues: No mandatory vaccinations or boosters, but you should check with your doctor to be safe!