Andorra is typically thought of as a winter destination due to its famous ski resorts, however an Andorra summer is also incredible. Some of the best things to do in Andorra in summer include incredible hiking, biking, adventure parks, shopping or relaxing in one of its spas.
It’s location, landlocked between Spain and France, in the Pyrenees mountain range offers incredible panoramic views everywhere you turn. It’s a great day trip from Barcelona, Spain and absolutely worth a visit on your European trip!
Whether you’re an adventure seeker, shopaholic or looking to rejuvenate in a relaxing spa after all your travels, a trip to Andorra in the summer is perfect for you!
How to get to Andorra
Primarily due to its mountainous location, the best way to get to Andorra is by car. Andorra does not have its own airport, therefore you will have to fly into one of the nearby airports in Spain or France, Toulouse and Carcassonne in the south of France and Barcelona, Spain being the closest.
Andorra also does not have any trains that enter the country. There are buses you can take into Andorra, however that will add hours to your travel time to get there.
The easiest, quickest and most convenient way to get to Andorra is most definitely by car. Once you get there, here are the best things to do in Andorra in summer.
Andorra Summer – Things to do
Hiking
Andorra is a fabulous location for hikers as it offers over 60 trails to enjoy. Ranging in difficulty, there is a hike for everyone to experience. Hiking will give you the opportunity to soak up and admire the gorgeous natural landscapes Andorra has to offer and discover amazing spots that often go unseen.
Andorra is home to three natural parks including the Valley of Coma Pedrosa, the Valley of Sorteny and the UNESCO classified Valley of Madriu-Perafita-Claror Andorra. Considering how small of a country it is, boasting three natural parks is extremely impressive!
The opportunity to explore the magnificent nature of the Pyrenees mountains is one that should most definitely not be missed while experiencing summer in Andorra. Put it on your list for things to do in Andorra in Summer
Mountain Biking or Cycling
If hiking on wheels is more your speed, then Andorra is the perfect destination for you. Andorra is one of Europe’s premium mountain biking and cycling destinations and its the perfect Andorra summer activity. There are over 200km of marked routes through its gorgeous landscapes and scenery for mountain bikers and plenty of prestige roads to cycling on as well.
While visiting Andorra, cyclist can take advantage of the many rental stores so there is no need to haul your own equipment.
Additionally, cyclist can utilize the many ski lifts to access over 40km of trails for bikers of all skill levels.
Andorra is a regular location for the Tour de France, which of course is an absolute must see if your trip aligns with the tour. However, if it doesn’t, that is an obvious testament to the amazing biking and cycling Andorra has to offer.
Relax at a Spa
After enjoying all the thrilling Andorra summer activities, or maybe instead of, Andorra is also the perfect destination to relax and spoil yourself. The charming town of Andorra de Vella has many spas to choose from and you should absolutely visit at least one while you are here.
Probably the most well known is Caldea spa which is also the largest indoor spa in southern Europe. You can’t miss it as you wander around town, as its architecture is super unique. The glass building comes to a tall, sharp point at the top and can be seen from everywhere in the city.
Stop by for the evening and watch the stars appear through the glass ceiling, or spend the entire day their soaking in the warm water. Maybe even indulge in a massage offered by one of their talented masseuses. Chances are, you’ll never want to leave.
Shopping
Andorra is a duty free country, making it the perfect place to do some retail therapy. There are plenty of options to shop in this tiny country too, so you won’t have to venture far to find some stores to pop in. Shopping is such a fun thing to do in Andorra in summer.
Most stores are open late and only close a few days out of the year. Couple that with the low prices and Andorra is a shopper’s paradise and a great place to update your wardrobe.
The biggest shopping center is The Shopping Mile which can be found right in the center of Andorra la Vella, Andorra’a capital. On The Shopping Mile you can find fashion and accessories, perfumery, electronics and gadgets, and sporting equipment and attire.
Adventure Park
While you are in Andorra, visit Naturland for a fun and thrilling day! Some of its major attractions include a zip line, buggy circuit, archery and an extreme jump into a giant inflatable pad.
But, the best attraction in my opinion is the tobotronc, the longest alpine coaster in the world! Don’t miss the once in a lifetime opportunity to go flying down the Pyrenees mountains, taking in the beautiful views while screaming around every corner. It really is a thrilling experience!
Naturland also has a restaurant on site and a separate area for kids to play, so you can easily spend the whole day there. Don’t miss this on your Andorra itinerary. It’s one of the best things to do in Andorra in summer.
Try the local food
While wandering around the charming town of Andorra de Vella, stop in a small restaurant and indulge in some traditional Andorran food. Traditional Andorran food is mainly Catalan, with some influences from the French and Spanish cuisine and is a must try while you are exploring Andorra.
Here are a few local traditional dishes to be on the lookout for while experiencing an Andorra summer:
Escudella – Andorra’s national dish. It is typically a winter dish, as it is served as a warm stew with pasta, vegetables and different kinds of meat. You will find it on almost every restaurants menu. Even if you are only there in the summer, I still recommend giving it a try while you can!
Cargols – snails! And oh so delicious
Trucha a la Andorrana – Grilled freshwater fish wrapped in ham. Usually trout or salmon.
Embotits – A delicious homemade sausage and an absolute must try. Usually made of pork and a variety of spices.
And for dessert, Creme Andorrana – similar to creme brûlée but instead of burned sugar on top, they top it with freshly whipped cream.
Don’t wait for winter to visit. There are so many fun and exciting things to do in Andorra in summer! Whether you are an adventure seeker or looking for a laid back trip, there is something for you to do. Enjoy the picturesque views of the Pyrenees mountains surrounding you and have a fabulous time in Andorra.
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