ANDORRA
Anodrra is principally a small country with lots of attractions for tourists. There are many things you can do while here such as go to the theater, catch a movie, ski on the slopes, go shopping, hiking, or just plain relax.
The choices of things to do in Andorra are vast, so let´s start with shopping. In Andorra, there are NO taxes, so the products that you buy will be much cheaper than the place they´re from originally. Also finding a place to stay here is not a problem, as there are a wide variety of options: hostels, apartments, albergues, and other accomodation to choose from.
The main activity here is skiing. There are 160 slopes all throughout Andorra, where you can practice your favorite winter sport, skiing, snowboarding... etc. In addition to these activities, you can also go hiking in the multitude of routes that the countryside has to offer whose hikes can last from one hour to several days. During the springtime and summer, you can also practice more extreme sports such as cliff hanging, rock climbing, or maybe something a little more tame, such as cycling, all to be practiced with the backdrop of the breathtaking Sordeny Natural Park.
Also, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit Ordino, where development and nature go hand in hand, and one doesn’t have to hurt the other. The Campo de Nieve Natural Park is a testament to the previous statement. While enjoying the natural surroundings, you can also visit monuments, such as its Roman ruins. Taking a walk down the streets can be a good place to take in Andorra’s culture. Inside Andorra la Vella and its historic city center, or maybe that of Ordino, can be a great site to do this. Ordino is one of the most enchanting districts of them all, and there you can visit diverse museums, etc.
If you are looking to relax, there’s no better place than the ,Les Escaldes Spa, with its thermal waters that will relax your sore muscles after a hard day’s skiing.
CLIMATE IN ANDORRA
Andorra's climate is typical of mountainous areas, with cold winters and mild summers. The climate is dry, with a large number of sunny days. Autumn experiences the highest rainfall, while winter gets plenty of snow, guaranteeing excellent skiing conditions and drawing in the crowds to the various ski resorts. The average temperature range is between 28°F (-2°C) and 75°F (24°C).
VISA INFORMATION FOR TOURISTS:
Although there are no visas requirements for Andorra, travelers must have the relevant documentation for either France or Spain, depending on which country will be transited to reach Andorra, and should apply to the relevant embassy in their home country. Visitors must also hold onward tickets, all other documents required for next destination and sufficient funds.
Americans: United States citizens need a passport, but no visa is required to enter Andorra.
UK nationals: British nationals need a passport, but no visa is required to enter Andorra.
Canadians: Canadians need a passport, but no visa is required to enter Andorra.
Australians: Australians need a passport, but no visa is required to enter Andorra.
South Africans: South Africans need a passport, but no visa is required to enter Andorra.
Irish nationals: Irish nationals need a passport, but no visa is required to enter Andorra.
New Zealanders: New Zealand nationals need a passport, but no visa is required to enter Andorra.
ATTRACTIONS AND THINGS TO DO IN ANDORRA
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Trekking and walking in the mountains (from June to November).
No need to take the car! There are many fantastic excursions you can do on well marked trails which start right from your door step such as the Coma Pedrosa (2'942m), Andorra's highest peak, the Pic de Médécourbe (2'914m) and many others. What's more, there are 3 free at a 1h30min. hike from your apartment or chalet as well as 7 mountain lakes! The GR 11 passes in front of your house and the GRP passes just above!
Via Ferratas (all year depending on conditions):
If you would like to try something different, how about climbing a few of the 9 Via Ferratas Andorra has to offer!
A cross between trekking and rock climbing, a safe adrenalin rush for those that are not scared of heights.
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Canyoning in Llavorsí: (1h30 by car):
This modern sport which involves descending a narrow and deep canyon is reserved for people that enjoy a severe adrenalin rush, are fit and not scared of heights (some jumps are over 6 meters). Included in the price: certified instructor, first-class equipment (wetsuit, ropes, climbing equipment and harnesses). Time: about 2h30'. Can be combined with rafting.
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