Andorra: a stopover between lakes and mountains

Andorra, a small country squeezed between two giants - France and Spain - is one of the smallest in the world. It covers an area of 469 km² and ranks 17th among the world's smallest countries. Right in the heart of the Pyrenees mountain range, this Principality offers many fascinating facets, such as its splendid mountain scenery, perfect for both winter and summer holidays.

The Principality of Andorra has a unique political system, with the Andorran throne shared between the Catalan bishop of Urgell and the French head of state. The country is divided into seven parishes, the equivalent of communes for us, which are themselves divided into villages: Canillo, Encamp, Ordino, La Massana, Sant Julia de Loria, Escaldes-Engordany and Andorra la vieille. Andorra's largest nature park, the Madriu-Perafita-Claror valley, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004 and covers 9% of the country. It is made up of glaciers, wooded valleys, wide green pastures and rocky mountains.

Andorra la Vella, a picturesque city, is the highest capital in Europe, reaching 1,023 metres above sea level. Its charm is reflected in its shops, attractive hotels, mountains and architecture.

In winter, the destination is in full swing. The mountainous landscape rises to an average height of 2,000 metres and is perfect for snow sports: skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, dog sledding and snowmobiling. The choice is vast! There are some of the highest and most extensive ski areas in the Pyrenees, including the Grandvalira and Vallnord ski resorts.

In summer, Andorra is also the place to be for sports enthusiasts. Andorrans are particularly keen on climbing (over 200 routes), canyoning (such as the Coma de Ransol ravine), mountain biking (perfect for admiring the sublime scenery) and mountain walking. The mild climate makes hiking in the mountains extremely pleasant, with a dozen lakes in between. The Madriu-Perafita-Claror valley, in the south of the country, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Three refuges have been built there for hikers wishing to venture out. All the above activities are also accessible to families.

Lovers of history and culture will also be delighted in Andorra. The destination is embellished by its Romanesque architecture. Its chapels and churches in particular are little jewels dating back in time, like the church of Santa Coloma or the church of San Clemente. The Meritxell sanctuary, designed in 1976 by the architect Ricardo Bofill, offers visitors an airy space with its surprising black and white brick arches.

Not only is Andorra an ideal destination for skiing and hiking, it is also one of the best places for a wellness break. The capital of Andorra la Vella is home to Europe's largest spa complex, Caldea, packed with variable-temperature swimming pools, a children's spa area, whirlpools, hammams and massage cabins.

Andorran gastronomy is a perfect fusion of French gourmet cuisine and Spanish culinary art. Grilling is a particularly popular cooking method. Typical dishes include a plethora of cured meats, sheep's milk cheeses such as tupi, calçots and grilled onions. In short, a delicious country well worth a visit.

Catalan is the official language here, but French and Spanish are also widely spoken. This destination has kept its traditions, including the many patron saint festivals. Finally, the country attracts shoppers because, let's face it, all items in the shops are tax-free. It's the perfect place to get your hands on everything from luxury perfumes to designer clothing and bags. Andorra is home to a number of shopping complexes that will delight shopping fans.

A little trivia: Andorra is not part of the European Union or the euro zone, even though it uses the euro. In fact, the destination has never had its own currency. Before the introduction of the euro, it used the Spanish peseta or the French franc.