Discover the 7 parishes in the Principality of Andorra
Nestled in the Pyrenees, the Principality of Andorra is a true European jewel, attracting visitors with its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Comprising seven distinct parishes, each offers a unique experience with a wide range of sporting, historical and cultural activities.
From Andorra la Vella, Europe's highest capital, to Canillo, renowned for its ski area, to the rich history of Encamp, each parish is an invitation to explore. Whether you're keen on mountain sports, history or relaxation, you'll find something to satisfy your desires. Escaldes-Engordany, with its thermal springs, and Ordino, with its unspoilt and authentic natural heritage, will offer you moments of serenity and discovery. Get ready to immerse yourself in Andorran culture, while enjoying breathtaking scenery. Follow us to discover the hidden treasures of these seven captivating parishes!
#1 Andorra la Vella
Andorra la Vella is the capital of the Principality and Andorra's main town, with just over 24,000 inhabitants.
It is located in the south-west of the country, in the Valira valley, and is the highest capital in Europe, at an average altitude of 1,013 metres! Andorra la Vella is the political and economic capital of the country, which also included the Andorran town of Escaldes-Engordany until 1978, making the capital the smallest parish in the principality, but the most populous. Today, it is home to just two small villages: Santa Coloma and La Margineda.
Part of the parish is home to an exceptional natural heritage, which you can explore on the many signposted footpaths leading to the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley, a large natural complex housing a medium and high mountain ecosystem.
Planning a trip just to the capital? Check out our previous article on the must-see places in Andorra la Vella!
#2 Canillo
The parish of Canillo is located in the north-west of Andorra, and is the principality's largest parish at 120 square kilometres, bordering on France. Canillo is considered the highest parish in the country, with an average altitude of 1,530 metres.
A large part of the area is dedicated to mountain sports, with the Grandvalira ski area and the Canillo, Soldeu and El Tarter sectors located in the parish. You can enjoy the pleasures of a ski descent or a snowshoeing excursion in the Incles Valley.
You'll have the chance to visit a number of typical and charming village churches, such as Sant Joan de Caselles, Sant Serni and Santa Creu, which will give you an insight into the history and culture of Canillo.
#3 Encamp
Encamp is located in the centre-east of the Principality and is a parish rich in history and cultural heritage.
This parish is home to one of the country's most important crossing points and trading routes: Pas de la Casa. This village lies on the border between Andorra and France, and is the gateway for visitors from France.
Encamp is one of the best places to discover the history of the Principality, and is home to several museums, including the Automobile Museum and the Casa Cristo ethnographic museum. The churches of Saint Romà and Saint Eulàlia are two of the most remarkable and historic places to visit in Encamp.
Encamp is also a dynamic centre for sporting and cultural activities. In winter, the parish is directly linked to the Grandvalira ski resort, the largest ski area in the Pyrenees, thanks to its funicular railway, the Funicamp, one of the longest in Europe. In summer, visitors can explore hiking trails leading to high-altitude lakes such as Engolasters, accessible on foot or by car, or try their hand atrock climbing in Andorra or Spain's Alt Urgell.
#4 Escaldes-Engordany
Escaldes-Engordany is Andorra's youngest parish, created in 1978 after being separated from Andorra la Vella. Situated in the south-east of the country, it is best known for its thermal springs and its natural heritage in the Madriu valley.
Today, Escaldes-Engordany is a tourist centre largely thanks to its Spa Caldea spa complex, the largest spa centre in the Pyrenees. Visitors can enjoy thermal baths, wellness treatments and relaxation in spectacular surroundings. The parish is also a major shopping destination, with the avenue Carlemany packed with international boutiques.
There's no shortage of places to visit! Are you an art lover? Stop off at the Centre d'Art d'Escaldes-Engordany (CAEE), which exhibits contemporary works of art, some of which even depict the history of the parish. For nature lovers, there are numerous hiking trails, including the Coronallacs route, which is ideal for experienced walkers due to its length. This route is located in the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its natural beauty and unspoilt landscapes.
#5 La Massana
Located in the north-west of Andorra, La Massana is a parish with a rich natural environment! In winter, the Vallnord-Pal Arinsal ski resort attracts skiers and snowboarders of all abilities with its 63 kilometres of ski runs and unique and original activities such as snow bike hire at Vallnord.
In summer, the region becomes a paradise for hikers, with routes through the heart of the Comapedrosa Valleys Communal Nature Park, including the ascent of the Pic de Coma Pedrosa, the highest peak in the principality at 2,942 metres.
Mountain bikers will also find trails to suit their level, and the town offers modern facilities such as the Vallnord Bike Park, suitable for all levels. There are downhill tracks and 3 cross-country circuits. Prefer to start learning how to mountain bike? No problem, the Bike Park also has a mountain bike school where you can learn to ride and discover the 30 different circuits to suit all levels of mountain biker.
#6 Ordino
Ordino is the parish in the Principality of Andorra with the best-preserved natural environment. It is a parish spread over 8 villages that have retained the rural charm of the past.
Natural and cultural heritage coexist to offer a magnificent journey during your visit to Ordino. The Maison d'Areny-Plandolit, one of Andorra's most emblematic buildings, and the Casa Rossel bear witness to the country's past. These museums allow visitors to learn more about traditional Andorran culture and what life was like in Andorra at the time.
Today, Ordino is renowned for its environmental conservation, thanks mainly to the Sorteny Valley Nature Park, with its alpine flora and fauna. If you're a nature lover, don't hesitate to take a walk in the natural park to discover the Estanyó lake and peak, for example. Want to discover Andorra's exceptional natural landscapes? On the other side of the parish, in the Ordino Arcalís area, discover the panoramic sundial of Tristaina at the top of Punta de Peiraguils, where you can enjoy a clear, panoramic view of the high altitude lakes and the Ordino valley.
In winter, you can take advantage of the Ordino Arcalís ski resort and its 30 kilometres of pistes to enjoy winter sports with your family or friends.
#7 Sant Julià de Lòria
The southern gateway to Spain, Sant Julià de Lòria is on the Spanish border. It is easily accessible thanks to direct shuttle services from a number of Spanish airports, including Barcelona.
Its main church, Sant Julià i Sant Germà, dates back to the 12th century and reflects the region's rich medieval past. In the 20th century, the parish grew with the creation of the University of Andorra, the principality's only public higher education institution.
Sant Julià is a place of adventure and discovery, thanks in particular to the Naturland park, which offers a wide range of activities throughout the year. In summer, thrill-seekers can try their hand at tobogganing, a unique experience at an altitude of 1,600 metres, as they hurtle down the green slopes of the Andorran valleys, taking in the breathtaking panoramic views.
In winter, you can enjoy a wide range of adventures on Andorra's Nordic ski slopes, including forest trails. Tickets can be purchased directly from Naturland, the activity and adventure park in Sant Julià de Lòria.
In conclusion, the Principality of Andorra offers a fascinating diversity within its seven parishes, each with its own unique characteristics. Each region reveals a distinct aspect of Andorra's culture and landscape. Whatever your interest, Andorra promises memorable experiences for all visitors. Plan your stay to discover this authentic destination full of riches!
Would you like to visit the Principality but are unsure about the best time of year to visit Andorra? Consult our season-by-season guide to find out the best time to visit Andorra!