Located in the Pyrenees Mountains, in between France and Spain, Andorra offers great value, high altitude skiing and tax-free shopping for a fantastic all-round winter getaway. Situated between France and Spain, Andorra provides an excellent alternative for a ski holiday away from the busier slopes of France. With good skiing and a lively après ski, Andorra has something for everyone.
One of Andorra’s many charming appeals is its vibrant nightlife with a its huge selection of bars and clubs offering duty free priced drinks well into the small hours. Non-stop party people come from all over to enjoy the colourful evenings on offer. However the tiny country does have other things to offer. In terms of landmarks and culture, the many churches and shrines are a main sight. The famous statue of Our Lady of Meritxell was destroyed in a 1972 fire, but a nice replica is still on display. In the country’s capital, Andorra la Vella, you’ll find the Romanesque Església de Sant Esteve, located in the old part of town and therefore a perfect stop during a city walk. Just 2 kilometres out of town, the church of Santa Coloma d’Andorra is even older, as it dates back to the 9th century, make sure you go in the morning to avoid the crowds ogling at the architecture!
Tax-free
Yes you read that right! Andorra is a shopper’s paradise so leave the men at home ladies and try not to go too crazy with your credit cards. On their avinguda Meritxell and avinguda Carlemany, and in the streets surrounding them, you will find all kinds of perfumeries, boutiques, shoe shops, pharmacies, electronics and photography shops, opticians, jeweller’s and watchmaker’s, sports shops, tobacco and drinks stores and also department stores and shopping centres. The urban centre of Pas de la Casa, on the French border, is also a good place to shop with commercial establishments and stores of all kinds. So wherever you visit there will be a place to shop!
O ‘Natural
Even though the country is becoming rapidly renowned for skiing, don’t let that fool you as you will find a wide range of activated for you and your family to enjoy an amusing day surrounded by nature. From adventures in the mountains to routes on horseback there really is something for everyone!
The land is mostly mountainous and is composed of valleys and peaks that soar nearly 3,000 m above sea level such as Comapedrosa peak (2,942 m), the highest summit in Andorra, and Estanyo peak (2,916 m). The lakes are one of the most significant scenic treasures in the country, and many are found inside Andorra’s two natural parks. With thousand of routes available to walk, hike, run or even ride on horseback it is an adventures dream as you can either explore on your own or be guided round by one of the many experienced guides who conduct regular tours up and down most of the mountains.
Don’t delay!
If you feel Andorra could be next year potential holiday, don’t delay and book in advance, so your flights, travel insurance, easy airport transfers from Stanstedwill pick you up and drop you off so it takes the worry out of leaving the car at the airport. So all that’s left for you to worry about it trying to shut your suitcase!
Featured images:
- License: Creative Commons image source
- License: Creative Commons image source
Business owner, marketing expert and writer Karen James has always been a lover of luxury travel and has expanded her knowledge of the world with various luxurious holidays, she seeks guidance from one of the best airport transfer service to and from Stansted, Luton and Gatwick; Milton Executive cars who are experts in their field of airport transfers and the hot places to be. When Karen isn’t planning her latest adventure abroad, she likes better than long walks with her dogs or weekends by the sea with her grandchildren.