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A unique mountain principality
Andorra is an independent state high in the mountains between France and Spain. It has a proud culture dating back to the 800s when it was founded by Charlemagne the Great to defend the Pyrenees and protect France. It has some of the most stunningly rugged scenery in Europe with narrow valleys winding between high mountains which soar to 2946m (9665ft). Isolated by the mountains that surround it, Andorra has remained unspoilt and quiet; this summer it is accessible to us as the perfect escape out of the busyness of life into the tranquillity of the mountains.
Staying high in the mountains
The village of El Serrat perched at the end of the Ordino valley is one of the most beautiful and quiet parts of Andorra. It is the perfect base for heading out for walks in the mountains or sitting and reading a book in front of a view that steals your breath. Local buses are available to take us down into the towns of Ordino and Andorra la Vella.
Comfortable, beautifully situated hotel
Our three-star hotel has superb views across the region as well as an indoor swimming pool, gym and lounge. Standard rooms are en-suite and for two people. After a day of walking in the mountains or adventure in the towns it will be good to come home to our hotel, get refreshed in the swimming pool, eat a great meal and spend time listening to an inspiring Bible talk in the evening.
Exploring Andorra together
Our optional excursion package will give us the opportunity to discover more of Andorra.
We will visit the capital city, Andorra la Vella, a city of 22,000 people in a steep gorge in the mountains. You might want to explore the historic quarter, full of picturesque stone buildings, some dating back to the ninth century; or check out the city’s famous low tax regime in the shopping centres; or simply unwind in Caldea: an enormous complex of pools, hot tubs, and saunas fed by thermal springs.
We will also have a day travelling through unspoilt picturesque villages off the beaten trail into the mountains.
Interesting towns and beautiful walks
Another day, we cross the border into Spain to visit the most important local Catalan town, Seu d’Urgell. This town is named after its ancient and impressive Romanic cathedral built in the 11th to 12th centuries. More recently it was the site of the kayak contest in the 1992 Olympics. Like everything in this region, this historic town is set against the backdrop of beautiful mountains.
We will also be exploring the stunning local scenery by foot, with a range of interesting walks as part of our optional excursion package.
Join us to enjoy this unusual and beautiful destination, high in the Pyrenees. |