Top 5 Winter Activities in Andorra
Small country, big adventures!
Today we’re taking you to Andorra! Andorra… But what is there to do in Andorra? Well, this small country, located between France and Spain, has a lot more to offer than tax-free products!
Located in the heart of the Eastern Pyrenees, the Andorran territory is mostly made of mountains of an average height of 1,900 meters. Geographically, the territory of Andorra consists of two valleys, the “Valira d’Orient” and the “Valira del Nord”, whose waters meet in the Valira River forming the letter “Y”, facing Spain.
Who says high mountains, valleys & rivers, says outdoor activities of all kinds. Andorra is one of the snowiest places in the Pyrenees. It is therefore the ideal place to practice many winter activities with family or friends. Skiing, Dog Sledding, Snowmobiling, Snowshoeing… there are many ways to discover the magnificent Andorran landscapes!
#1 Dog Sledding in Port d’Envalira
Let’s start our list of winter activities in Andorra with our all-time favorite! Port d’Envalira is located in the east of Andorra, near the border with France. At 2,408 meters above sea level, it is the highest road in the Pyrenees and is the main communication route with France. From there, you can see the water flow between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Port d’Envalira is also the best place to enjoy a unique experience: a dog sledding trip, where you can admire the beautiful snowy landscapes of the region!
During a 2 or 3.5 km excursion, you will discover the mountainous valleys and forests of Andorra. The sled will be led by a professional musher and pulled by 8 to 14 dogs, Alaskan or Siberian huskies. The minimum age required for this activity is 3 years old, which makes it an ideal activity for families. Children of 8 and up can even take on the role of a musher and drive along with the guide. For this dog sledding trip in Port d’Envalira, don’t forget to wear very warm clothes: ski clothes, gloves, etc. Because it can get freezing during the ride.
You can get ready for your Dog Mushing adventure by checking out the 5 best dog sledding movies.
#2 Snowshoeing near Canillo
The parish of Canillo is located in the northeast of Andorra. In this area, you will find Grandvalira, a world-class ski resort. But there are more activities you can try other than skiing. We suggest you go on a snowshoeing tour! Snowshoes will help you to walk on powder snow without sinking into the ground. Throughout the stroll, you will get to discover the surrounding mountains.
During the snowshoe hike near Canillo, you will explore the beautiful landscapes of the Andorran Pyrenees, far from the ski slopes. This excursion will allow you to recharge your batteries, enjoy the peace and quiet, and also admire nature and its winter landscapes.
Beyond the hike itself, your mountain guide will tell you all about the Andorran secrets and myths. The hikes are normally done near the areas of Ransol, Tarter, and Soldeu, depending on the snow and the weather conditions. Snowshoeing in Canillo is, without doubt, one of the most beautiful winter activities in Andorra!
#3 Ski Touring near Pas de la Casa
The third winter activity we recommend in Andorra is located in Pas de la Casa, which is a town in the parish of Encamp. It’s the only crossing point between Andorra and France. So, instead of skiing on the slopes, how about trying ski touring?
Far from the perfectly groomed ski slopes, this activity will allow you to enjoy the mountains and nature just as with the snowshoeing excursion – but this time the downhill skiing is part of the deal. The ski touring near Pas de la Casa is ideal for people who already know how to ski off-piste and who want to discover this different activity.
For half a day, your guide will teach you about the basics of ski touring such as: how to put on the seal skins and how to use the safety equipment (avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe, etc.). All this will be done in the middle of the splendid landscapes of the Pyrenees!
#4 Snowmobile excursions in Ordino
In the “Valira del Nord” Valley, located in the northwest of Andorra, lies Ordino. Several of the country’s highest peaks can be found in this area, such as the Serrera (2,912 m), the Pico de Font Blanca (2,903 m), and the Estanyo (2,915 m).
Discover the Andorran sceneries on your snowmobile ride in Ordino and get your adrenaline flowing on one of these powerful machines. Ride through the forests and the snowy mountains of the Valira del Nord.
You will be able to choose between three routes based on the course you choose (15mins, 30mins or 1h). For this activity, the driver must be at least 18 years old, but it is possible to take children as passengers. Of course, it is up to you to adapt your speed. Do not forget to wear warm clothes and shoes adapted to the weather. It can get (very) cold on snowmobiles, even on the shortest rides.
And if you have any questions about snowmobiling, check out our Guide of everything you need to know about snowmobiling before you go on this adventure.
#5 Via Ferrata in Grau Roig
At the end of winter, when the snow starts to disappear, new outdoor activities become available in Andorra. In the ski resort of Grau Roig, located in the Grandvalira ski area, skiing gradually gives its way to hiking, climbing, and Via Ferrata.
In mid-season, the most spectacular activity is, without a doubt, the Via Ferrata of Bony d’Envalira. To try this Via Ferrata, you need to be a little athletic and not afraid of heights. You will leave with your guide from the station of Grau Roig and will go on an hour and a half walk till you arrive at the starting point of the Via Ferrata.
From there, you will have to follow a pathway for about 3 hours. The guide will be there to ensure that you are in complete safety. Once you arrive at the top, at a height of 2600 meters, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking 360° panoramic view and a well-deserved picnic. The descent to Grau Roig will be done via a different, easier itinerary.
Outdoor activities, all year long
Andorra may be a small country, but it is full of fun outdoor activities to try out during winter! Skiing is not the only winter activity to do. On the contrary, there are plenty of alternative ways to discover the natural beauty of the Andorran valleys and mountains.
In Andorra, you will find fun outdoor activities all year long. Have a look at all our outdoor activities in Andorra, so you can plan your next getaway in the country!