Just an hour's drive from campsite Ariège évasion, the Principality of Andorra offers a perfect day trip. Known as a shopping , this principality, nestled at 2000m altitude between France and Spain, has much more to offer, provided you venture beyond Pas de la Casa and its numerous boutiques.
Pas de la case:
Once you cross the border (Andorra is not part of the European Union), you arrive in Pas de la Casa amidst a cluster of shopping centers in the heart of the mountains. We won't dwell on Pas de la Casa's tourist appeal, as it's more of a duty-free shopping paradise than a peaceful haven in the Pyrenees. Keep in mind, however, that the quantities of cigarettes, alcohol, perfumes, and other goods you might buy in Andorra are subject to customs allowances. Be aware that French customs officers will be keeping a close eye on you on your return journey!
Pas de la Casa is therefore the gateway to the principality on the French side; once you have passed through it, you can continue through the Col d'Envallira and reach the Port d'Envallira (2400m), which will offer you an exceptional panorama of the Andorran mountains.
The Madriu-Perafita-Claror was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004,in the category of cultural landscape. It is located in the southeast of the Principality ofAndorra and occupies 10% of the country's territory, covering an area of 4,247 hectares.
The Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley stretches across the parishes of Andorra la Vella, Escaldes-Engordany, Encamp, and Sant Julià de Lòria. One of the most popular access points to the valley is on the Engolasters road (42.517536, 1.571087). For the more athletic, it can also be accessed from the Grau Roig ski resort parking lot, offering the opportunity to traverse the Cirque des Pessons and its magnificent lakes. This valley extends for 12 km and has an elevation change of 1,855 m. Its highest point is the Portelleta peak (2,905 m). Its network of hiking trails and high-mountain refuges allows for numerous excursions and the observation of rare or endangered animal and plant species.
Located in Escaldes-Engordany, just before Andorra la Vella, 1 hour and 30 minutes from Ariège Evasion campsite and 30 minutes from Pas de la Casa, the Caldea has become a leading spa destination in Andorra. Its revolutionary thermal spa concept and magnificent facilities make it one of the principality's must-see destinations. It is now the largest thermal spa in southern Europe, with over 40,000 m²dedicated to relaxation in a stress-free atmosphere.
Fun thermal waters:
The Caldea thermal spa is unique and innovative. It combines relaxation and entertainment, making it a true " thermal leisure " destination. The natural water, the center's star attraction, is rich in sulfur and other minerals. This water springs forth at 70°C. Among its benefits are healing, decongestant, and anti-allergic properties.
Spaces and services:
This vast thermal complex is centered around four spas: the Thermoludic Spa, the Inúu Spa (reserved for adults), the Orígines Spa, and the Likids Spa for children. The Thermoludic Spa features a large indoor thermal lagoon heated to 32-34°C and an area dedicated to Indo-Roman baths, where the contrasting temperatures are excellent for health. It also boasts an outdoor area with views of the mountains and Andorra la Vella. It's the perfect place to relax the day after a canoe trip down the Ariège River.
Useful links:
Information and ticketing.
Roc del Quer viewpoint and Canillo Tibetan bridge:
On the road between Pas de la Casa and Andorra la Vella, make a detour to the Roc del Quer viewpoint. The breathtaking views will be etched in your memory forever. You'll never forget the feeling of floating in the air, as if the Pyrenees mountains were embracing you. This explains why this recently opened viewpoint is already one of the most popular spots in Canillo. It's an exceptional place, open to everyone, to discover Andorra in all its splendor. Don't miss it!
How do I get to the viewpoint?
Access to the viewpoint is very easy, even though it's not directly on the road. Once you're on the Ordino Pass road (CS-240), the viewpoint is located at kilometer 6.5. Just before reaching it, you'll find a large parking area on your left. From there, take the path leading to the viewpoint.
From this area, descend for about ten minutes, with a drop of 70m, to reach the Roc del Quer. Wear comfortable shoes for this outing.
The Tibetan bridge of Canillo:
The Tibetan bridge
Discover one of the most impressive tourist attractions in the Pyrenees. This minimalist structure is located in the Vall del Riu at an altitude of over 1800 meters. It is one of the longest in the world, measuring 603 meters in length, one meter in width, and reaching a dizzying height of 158 meters above the ground!
This unique pedestrian bridge is located in one of the most spectacular natural locations in the Principality of Andorra.
Access the Tibetan Bridge via shuttle buses departing from the Roc del Quer viewpoint car park. Transport is free.
From the Tibetan Bridge bus stop to the start of the bridge, you walk 900 meters. You'll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the central valley of the Canillo parish and the mountains where the Grandvalira ski slopes are located.
Those prone to vertigo should refrain!
The Tibetan bridge of Encamp:
A free and natural alternative
Encamp Tibetan Bridge in Andorra The Encamp Tibetan Bridge offers a free and authentic experience in the heart of nature.
If you'd like a similar but more intimate experience, without an entrance fee, head to the Tibetan Bridge of Encamp, located in Els Cortals d'Encamp. This lesser-known alternative offers an authentic experience in nature, ideal for families and those who enjoy leisurely hikes.
This suspension bridge, accessible free of charge, is less than a kilometer's walk from the climbing wall visible on the Els Cortals road. The path is easy and suitable for everyone, including those walking dogs. Unlike the Canillo bridge, you'll find fewer people here, allowing you to enjoy the mountain setting in all its serenity.
The surrounding area offers numerous possibilities: swimming in the river in summer (with deeper water areas further upstream), picnicking in a pristine natural setting, and observing Pyrenean flora, particularly the magnificent blue-violet thistles that bloom in summer. In autumn, the landscape's colours are especially spectacular.
Access: From Encamp, take the Els Cortals road towards the Funicamp and continue until you see a climbing wall on your right (approximately a 15-minute climb). You can park on the side of the road or in the small free parking lot at the Funicamp's intermediate station. The bridge is a 10-15 minute walk from there.
Note: In winter, access can be difficult if there is snow on the trail, so spring, summer or autumn are preferable for this getaway.
Grandvalira, the largest ski resort in the Pyrenees:
The campsite Ariège évasion is closed in winter, but we couldn't talk about Andorra without mentioning its Grandvalira ski area. This vast ski area offers skiers 210 km of slopes. Grandvalira is the largest ski area in the Pyrenees. The resort offers six different sectors with all the necessary services. A haven for sports enthusiasts, the resort boasts the only downhill run in Andorra suitable for World Cup events. For several years, the principality has made a name for itself in the world of skiing by hosting numerous World Cup competitions.
The slopes:
Located between 1,710 and 2,640 meters in altitude, its 118 slopes, served by 64 ski lifts, are primarily blue (making them accessible to a wide range of skiers). The ski area comprises six sectors (Encamp, Canillo, El Tarter, Soldeu, Grau Roig, and Pas de la Casa), all interconnected by state-of-the-art cable cars. Suitable for all skill levels, the area is a benchmark for freestyle skiing thanks to its three constantly improving snowparks. For freeriding, in addition to the numerous existing routes, Grandvalira offers two new controlled areas: the Encampadana Freeride Area by Gore-Tex, located in the El Tarter sector, and the Pic Blanc area in Grau Roig. The resort guarantees consistently good snow conditions thanks to its snowmaking system (1,013 cannons) which covers 65% of its skiable surface.
Far from the crowds and artificial stadiums:
ARIEGE EVASION walks and snowshoeing, from half-day to full-day excursions, exploring the natural environment in winter.
78 km (1 hour 30 minutes) from Ariège évasioncampsite. Discover Andorra la Vella, the capital of the Principality of Andorra and the highest capital city in Europe (1050m). This vibrant city symbolizes the Principality's entry into a new era while proudly showcasing the jewels of Andorran culture. There's something for everyone: luxury shopping, museums, gastronomy, casinos, wellness..
Andorra la Vella hosts numerous festivals. Don't miss the famous "Cirque du Soleil" show, which is performed there every evening during the summer.
Don't hesitate to check theevents calendar, you'll never be bored in Andorra la Vella!
