Hiking in Andorra: Discover the best routes in the Principality
Andorra, this small country nestling in the heart of the Pyrenees between France and Spain, is a veritable paradise for hiking enthusiasts. With its breathtaking scenery, rugged mountains, crystal-clear lakes and lush green valleys, walking in Andorra is a unique experience, both accessible to novice hikers and highly rewarding for the more experienced.
Here is a complete guide to the best hiking routes in Andorra, with technical details to help you prepare for your adventure.
Andorra is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Despite its small size, the country boasts an astonishing diversity of landscapes: from pine forests and snow-capped peaks to winding rivers and alpine pastures. In addition to its magnificent natural landscapes, hiking in Andorra also allows you to discover a rich cultural heritage, including Romanesque churches, ancient bridges and picturesque villages.
1. The Coma Pedrosa peak
The Pic de Coma Pedrosa is Andorra's highest peak, rising to 2,942 metres. It's a challenging hike, but the reward is well worth the effort. From the summit, there are breathtaking views of the Pyrenees and the surrounding valleys.
- Distance: 14 km round trip
- Difference in altitude: 1,400 metres
- Maximum altitude of the hike: 2942 metres
- Duration: Approximately 6 to 8 hours
- Level: Difficult
You set off from Arinsal, a village in the west of the country. Set off to reach Andorra's highest point. On this hike, you'll cross various paths in the heart of Andorran nature and the Comapedrosa nature park. The route passes through pine forests, streams and alpine meadows before reaching the rocky slopes that lead to the summit. This hike, which is not very technical but is physically demanding due to the steep gradients, is best done in summer, spring or early autumn when there is no snow yet.
2. The Estanys de Tristaina circuit
This route is one of the most beautiful and popular for hiking enthusiasts in Andorra. Located in the Ordino valley, the route takes you to discover three magnificent glacial lakes: Estany Primer (2,299 metres), Estany del Mig (2,240 metres) and Estany de Més Amunt (2,306 metres).
- Distance: 7 km (loop)
- Difference in altitude: 300 - 400 metres
- Duration: 2h30 to 3 hours
- Level: Easy to moderate
The trail starts from the car park at the Ordino-Arcalis ski resort. This route is perfect for a family hike or for beginners, as it is relatively short and well signposted. This hiking trail is pleasant in summer, with its lakes making it an ideal spot for a picnic break or a refreshing dip.
3. Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Madriu-Perafita-Claror valley is a must for anyone wanting to walk in Andorra and explore an unspoilt natural area. This valley offers a wide variety of landscapes spanning the parishes of Andorra la Vella, Escaldes-Engordany and Encamp, with panoramic views ranging from high-altitude meadows to black pine forests and crystal-clear rivers.
- Distance: 12 km (to Estany de la Nou)
- Difference in altitude: 700 metres
- Duration: 4h30 to 5 hours
- Level: Moderate to difficult
The trail starts in Escaldes-Engordany, near Andorra la Vella. The valley is also an excellent place to observe the local wildlife, before finally arriving at the Estany de la Nou at an altitude of over 2,000 metres.
A complete hiking trail in the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley is available, covering a total distance of 23 kilometres and lasting around 7 hours, depending on your pace.
4. The Pic de Casamanya
The Pic de Casamanya is located in the centre of Andorra, making it an ideal vantage point from which to admire the whole country. From its summit at 2,749 metres, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the Canillo valley and the Ordino valley on the other.
- Distance: 9 km round trip
- Difference in altitude: 890 metres
- Altitude of the route: 1974 - 2749 metres
- Duration: 4 hours
- Level: Moderate to difficult
The hike starts at the Col d'Ordino and you'll be walking along a well-marked path with no great difficulties, yet offering magnificent views throughout. This hike in Andorra is perfect for walkers who want to enjoy the high Pyrenean mountains without having to tackle an overly technical route with a relatively low gradient to finally appreciate the views over Andorra from the Pic de Casamanya between the municipalities of Ordino and Canillo.
5. Rec del Solà
This hiking route is one of the closest to the capital Andorra la Vella and one of the easiest in the country. It follows the signposted Green Loop trail that surrounds the capital.
- Distance: 4.4 km
- Difference in altitude: 50 metres
- Duration: 1h30 to 2 hours
- Level : Easy
This is a very easy walk, ideal for short family outings, as you follow the Rec del Solà canal between the local vegetable gardens and the mountainside. You'll enjoy magnificent panoramic views of Andorra la Vella and a peaceful tranquillity just a few kilometres from the Andorran capital.
6. Snowshoe hikes from Pas de la Casa in Andorra
Andorra is also a paradise for snowshoe trekking, with its high peaks, mountains and geographical location in the heart of the Pyrenees.
- Difference in altitude: 200 metres
- Duration: 4 hours
- Level: Moderate
This itinerary is ideal for enjoying the joys of snowshoe trekking away from the hustle and bustle of Andorra's renowned ski resorts. The advantage is that you will be accompanied by a guide who will provide you with information and explanations about the fauna, flora and slopes around you.
Here you will find all the snowshoe hikes in Andorra that we offer. Please note that these itineraries will all be guided by an experienced instructor.
Hiking in Andorra is an unforgettable and highly acclaimed experience, with the principality's many valleys, nature parks and peaks. Whether you're looking for a sporting challenge or simply a beautiful walk in the heart of nature, you're bound to find a hike to suit your tastes: from the vertiginous peaks of the Pic de Coma Pedrosa to the high-altitude lakes of the Tristaina circuit, hiking in Andorra allows you to discover landscapes of exceptional beauty. With a multitude of signposted trails to suit all levels, the Pyrenean principality is an unmissable destination for hiking enthusiasts.
If you're looking to explore the best hiking routes in Andorra, prepare to be amazed by the diversity and richness of the itineraries on offer, as well as the flora and fauna you'll encounter and the breathtaking panoramas, high-altitude lakes or lush green valleys, Andorra will seduce you at every step.