Andorra La Vella

Andorra La Vella, meaning literally "Old Andorra", is the capital of the Principality of Andorra, a tiny country hugging Spain and France. It lies in a valley between the mountains and is the highest European capital. We find it on the southern slopes of the Pyrenees, at the mouth of the Valila del Norte River. Its location (at an altitude of 1,409 m above sea level) has made it popular among skiers for a long time.

A stone building from the 16th century catches the eye of tourists in the village. This is Casa de la Vall, now the seat of parliament. In the so-called The Cabinet of the Seven Keys, located in the meeting room, holds the archives of the principality and symbolic keys to the seven parishes of Andorra. What else draws attention? The market square, which - as for the city center - is an amazingly peaceful place. In addition, the entire Andorra Valley can be seen from it.

Although the town is located approx. 3 hours from the nearest airport, this does not discourage tourists, who visit it more and more every year. The reason is mountainous and picturesque terrain, favorable for skiing in winter and hiking in summer, but not only that. Andorra boasts many historic buildings, including the beautiful Church of Sant Esteve and the second Church of Sant Andreu, unparalleled in beauty. Both come from the 12th century.

Two halves of an apple

The city is clearly divided into two parts. The North is more modern, with new developments and lots of shops. On the other hand, the south-western part of the city, running along the river, is historic, despite the fact that it also has a wide range of shops.

When visiting the city, the bridge of la Margineda is a must. Its origins date back to the Middle Ages, but it is still in perfect condition. While admiring the bridge, it is worth going a bit further to see the sculpture in Santa Coloma. This is the work of the Valencian artist Andreu Alfaro. Other places that deserve some attention are Rec del Sola and Rec de l'Obac. These are paved roads with handrails, illuminated at night to allow walkers to safely enjoy the views from above. Both roads are 2.5 km long.

Caldea - the pearl of the city

Andorra is a very atmospheric place where body and mind rest. And literally - everyone who has been to Caldea knows it. In a modern glass building, with a spire-like turret (soaring and pointed), it is the largest mountain recreation and leisure complex in Europe. Guests have access to Roman and Turkish baths, a jacuzzi, pools with lagoons, saunas and water jets. They can also take advantage of a series of different types of massages. It must be remembered that the complex owes its popularity mainly to thermal waters.

Caldea was founded on the initiative of the mayor of Escaldes-Engordany, and was created by French designer Jean-Michelle Ruols. The huge building - 600 square meters - was supposed to differ in terms of both the concept and the appearance of the other resorts benefiting from the benefits of the thermal waters of the region. So it happened, and today many tourists come to Andorra specifically to visit this one-of-a-kind complex.

What if you come with a camper?

We have already mentioned that access to the city is not very easy, which does not diminish its attractiveness, however. Many people willing to spend their holidays here decide to come by their own car or camper. And where can you stay in such a situation? About 15 minutes walk from the city center you will find Camping Valira (Av. Salou, s / n, Andorra La Vella, AD500). Guests can enjoy the bar and restaurant here, and have the option of shopping in the supermarket. An adult will pay EUR 5.85-6.10 per night on this camping, the price of a place for a vehicle is EUR 11.70-12.50 / day, and a child's accommodation - EUR 4.95 / night in high season and EUR 4.85 / day off of it.

A little further, about 10 km from Andorra, there is Camping Xixerella Parc (Ctra. De Pal, And 400 Erts-La Massana). It is located 2.5 km from the center of La Massana and in close proximity to the slopes of Vallnord Pal. It is a year-round camping, located at an altitude of 1350 m above sea level. There are 20 parking spaces, 2 washing machines and a dryer for guests. There is also a common room and a playground for children on the campsite, discos and various animations are organized. The bathrooms are wheelchair accessible. There are no problems with accepting credit cards.

The prices are as follows: 12.60 euro / day for a place for the vehicle, 6.30 euro for a night of stay of an adult, 4.90 euro / day for the accommodation of a child, access to electricity costs 5.90 euro / day, and for dog, we will pay 4.20 euro / day.

What to buy before returning home?

In Andorra, we can buy electronic equipment and jewelery at a profit. The main reason for this is low taxes, and an additional plus is the huge variety of goods and models. At the southern end of Meritxell Avenue, there is a shopping mall with many restaurants for families with children. Another incentive to go here is the large assortment of Andorran and Spanish specialties and red wines.

After such shopping, you can end your holiday and leave the town, remembering the romantically illuminated streets, beautiful churches, majestic mountain peaks and the time spent in Caldea.