2025 Les Escaldes Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in February)

A Dreamy Journey in the Pyrenees Having long heard of Andorra's charm, I finally set foot on this land, embarking on my own wondrous journey. Upon arriving in Andorra la Vella, I first visited the Andorra History Museum. Stepping into the museum was like opening a weighty volume of history. The museum displays various artifacts from ancient to modern times, from exquisite handicrafts to ancient literature, each piece narrating Andorra's past. I carefully explored, learning about the country's unique historical changes and cultural heritage, as if traveling back to those bygone eras. Emerging from the museum, I strolled through the streets of Andorra la Vella. The architectural style here is unique, blending the rustic charm of the Middle Ages with modern fashion elements. The small shops lining the streets offer a dazzling array of goods. As a shopping enthusiast, I naturally couldn't miss this opportunity. Andorra is a renowned "shopping paradise," with attractive prices for perfumes, cosmetics, electronics, and more. I shuttled between shops, carefully selecting my favorite items, leaving with a sense of fulfillment. At mealtime, I entered a local restaurant. Andorran cuisine blends French and Spanish characteristics, possessing both the refinement of French cuisine and the passion of Spanish cuisine. I ordered a traditional Andorran stew, the rich broth enveloping tender meat and vegetables, creating a mellow and unforgettable flavor. The crispy bread, paired with local cheeses, was a treat for the taste buds with every bite. After satisfying my hunger, I headed to Andorra's ski resort, Grandvalira. Even outside the ski season, the scenery here captivated me. The rolling mountains, covered in lush vegetation, and the fresh air were invigorating. In winter, this place becomes a paradise for ski enthusiasts. I imagined myself gliding down the slopes, my heart filled with anticipation. I strolled along the mountain trails, admiring the surrounding natural scenery, and embracing the tranquility and beauty of nature. On my last day in Andorra, I visited the Church of Sant Esteve. This ancient church exudes an air of mystery, with a solemn and majestic exterior and exquisite interior decorations. The stained-glass windows shimmered with colorful light under the sun's rays, and the beautiful murals told touching stories. I sat quietly inside the church, feeling the serenity and sanctity, my soul cleansed. Although my trip to Andorra was short, its beauty and uniqueness are deeply etched in my memory. The history, culture, cuisine, and natural scenery here have all left me longing to return. I believe that someday in the future, I will once again set foot on this land, continuing my Andorran story.

Andorra, a small country nestled between France and Spain, is a hidden gem with unique charm. It offers not only magnificent natural scenery but also a rich history, cultural heritage, and exciting shopping experiences. Let's embark on a wonderful journey to Andorra! 1. Visa and Entry Andorra does not issue its own visas. Citizens of other countries must enter through Spain or France. Chinese citizens can enter Andorra with a valid passport and a Spanish or French visa. Although Andorra has a visa-waiver policy for Chinese passports, due to the lack of airports and train stations, entry is only possible by road from Spain or France. Therefore, a Schengen visa is required. 2. Best Time to Travel Andorra has a mountain climate with dry and cool summers, making it an ideal summer retreat. Most areas experience long, cold winters with mountain snow cover for up to 8 months, a paradise for ski enthusiasts. Andorra is suitable for travel year-round. Enjoy the cool climate in summer and skiing fun in winter. The annual shopping discount seasons also attract many tourists. 3. Transportation Guide External Transportation • Bus: Long-distance buses to Andorra are available from Barcelona, Girona, Lleida, Reus, and Salamanca in Spain; Arcos de Valdevez and Porto in Portugal; and L'Hospitalet and Toulouse in France. There is a direct bus from Barcelona to Andorra, departing from Barcelona Airport and stopping at Barcelona Sants train station, with 9 round trips daily and a journey time of 3–4 hrs. From Madrid to Andorra, take the Alsa bus from Avenida de America bus station in Madrid, with a journey time of 12 hrs. From Matabiau bus station at Toulouse train station in France, there are two buses daily (10:30 am, 7:30 pm) to Andorra la Vella, the capital of Andorra. There are also two buses daily (5:00 am, 3:00 pm) from Andorra la Vella to Toulouse station. • Car: Driving to Andorra allows you to enjoy the scenery of the Pyrenees along the way. However, the mountain roads from France to Andorra are quite steep, with some sections having cliffs and no guardrails. Caution is advised. In comparison, the road conditions from Spain to Andorra are better, with wider roads and beautiful scenery. Internal Transportation • Bus: Intercity transportation in Andorra mainly relies on buses, including express, regular, and night services. There are 6 main lines, with branch lines for lines 4 and 6, basically meeting the travel needs of tourists in Andorra. • Car Rental: Renting a car to travel in Andorra is also a good option. There are car rental companies and tourist information centers next to the main bus station, where you can rent a car and get free sightseeing maps to explore the villages. • Taxi: The administrative regions of Andorra are not large. Traveling within the city is convenient by foot or taxi. 4. Recommended Attractions Plaça la Rotonda • Visit Time: 1 hr • Features: Located in the center of Andorra la Vella, Plaça la Rotonda is surrounded by medieval buildings. The iconic clock sculpture in the square is a must-see photo spot. There is also a tourist information center where you can get free maps in Chinese and collect souvenir stamps. Església de Sant Esteve • Visit Time: 1 hr • Features: Commonly known as the "Andorra Stone Church," its history dates back to the 11th century. The semicircular apse on the east side retains the Romanesque style. The church is beautifully decorated and has a solemn atmosphere. Outside the church is a picturesque valley, a good place to experience Andorra's religious culture and historical heritage. Casa de la Vall • Visit Time: 1–2 hrs • Features: Built with local materials, this stone house was once a wealthy family's private residence and has served as Andorra's parliament building since 1702. Downstairs is Andorra's only court, and upstairs is the parliament hall. The cabinet for storing important official documents requires 7 keys to open simultaneously, each held by a representative of the 7 parishes. Grandvalira Ski Resort • Visit Time: 1 d • Features: The most extensive ski resort in the Pyrenees, Grandvalira consists of five interconnected ski resorts with a total of 193 km of slopes, ranging from beginner slopes to competition tracks. From December to May each year, the thick snow attracts tourists from all over the world for skiing holidays. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you can find your own fun here. Caldea Spa Center • Visit Time: 1 d • Features: As Andorra's most famous spa resort, it is one of the best spas in the world and a landmark building in Andorra. The spa center features waterfall pools, artificial waves, Turkish baths, waterbeds, saunas, ice caves, restaurants, bars, spa massage and beauty areas, and shopping areas. In the evening, there are music and light shows as well as underwater music, allowing you to relax and enjoy your time while enjoying the hot springs. 5. Food Guide Andorra's cuisine blends French and Spanish influences, emphasizing ambiance and etiquette, and focusing on food and wine pairing. People here love pasta and have a wide variety of bread. Cheese, beef, duck, caviar, and foie gras are also among their favorite foods. However, they generally do not eat animal offal (other than liver), fish without scales, or fish with bones. • Embotits: A variety of cured meats, commonly including sausages, ham, and blood sausage. Sausages are made with various spices and seasonings, cured and smoked for a long time, resulting in a rich flavor and firm texture. Ham is made from high-quality pork leg, carefully processed and dry-aged for a long time, resulting in tender and juicy meat with a unique flavor. Blood sausage is made with pig blood, flour, and seasonings, offering a delicate texture and an essential dish in traditional Andorran festivals and celebrations. • Escudella: This is a very special dish. Oxtail, lamb leg bones, and chicken breast are placed in cold water with ham for flavor and simmered for an hour. Then, onions, carrots, and celery are added to make a vegetable broth and simmered for another 20 mins. For the giant meatballs, ground pork, eggs, minced garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, and breadcrumbs are mixed, coated with flour, and cooked in hot broth for 30 mins. At the same time, potatoes, cabbage, and botifarra sausage are cooked in the soup pot. Finally, the meatball broth is poured back, and pasta, chickpeas, and rice are added and cooked for 10 mins to create a hearty and flavorful soup-based meal. • Local Wine: Andorra's wines are not to be missed. The wines produced by the local wineries have a rich taste and fruity aroma. Pairing a glass of local wine with your meal adds to the enjoyment. 6. Shopping Recommendations Andorra is the only duty-free country in Europe, making shopping one of the main tourist activities. There are over 1,000 duty-free shops and shopping centers, with Andorra la Vella being the main shopping city. Popular shopping malls include Illa Carlemany, Pyrénées, and Meritxell - Carlemany. Cosmetics, watches, tobacco, and alcohol are significantly cheaper here, with some high-tax items being almost 50% cheaper than in other EU countries. January, February, and July are the discount seasons in Andorra, with discounts also available during Christmas, making shopping even more affordable. However, be aware that you may encounter strict customs checks when leaving Spain, and purchases exceeding EUR 900 may be questioned. 7. Accommodation Suggestions • Luxury Hotels: If you are looking for a high-quality accommodation experience and first-class service facilities, 4-star hotels like Novotel Andorra are a good choice. The hotel offers a variety of room types, a swimming pool, children's facilities, services for people with disabilities, free Wi-Fi, and mountain views from some rooms. • Budget-friendly: If you are on a budget, Andorra also has many affordable guesthouses. These guesthouses usually offer a cozy environment, allowing you to experience the local atmosphere and meet travelers from different places. When booking accommodation, choose a location in the center of Andorra la Vella or near the ski resorts for convenient travel, depending on your itinerary and focus. 8. Itinerary Planning 3-Day Tour • Day 1: Arrive in Andorra la Vella, visit Plaça la Rotonda, get a map in Chinese, and learn about the city layout. Then, visit Església de Sant Esteve and experience its historical charm. In the afternoon, stroll through the streets of Andorra la Vella, admire the medieval architecture, browse the unique shops, and savor the local cuisine. • Day 2: Visit Grandvalira Ski Resort (during ski season) or Vall de Madriu-Perafita-Claror (off-season). Enjoy skiing during the ski season or hike and appreciate the natural scenery of the valley and breathe in the fresh air during the off-season. • Day 3: Visit Caldea Spa Center in the morning, relax in the hot springs, and enjoy the various spa facilities. In the afternoon, go shopping for duty-free goods and end your trip on a high note.

Andorra, a small country nestled in the southern slopes of the Pyrenees, boasts unique natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and enticing cuisine, making it a rare travel destination in Europe. 1. Best Time to Travel and Climate Andorra has a mountain climate. Summer (June to August) sees average temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, offering a cool and pleasant environment perfect for escaping the heat and hiking. Winter (November to April) averages between -5°C and 10°C, transforming the mountains into a snow-covered paradise for ski enthusiasts. The snow quality during the ski season is excellent, providing a superb skiing experience. 2. Food Recommendations 😋 1. Escudella: This traditional stew combines various meats (such as pork, beef, and chicken) and vegetables (like carrots, potatoes, and onions), simmered together for a rich and nutritious flavor, a perfect warm dish for winter. 2. Carbonada: Made with lamb or beef as the main ingredient, slow-cooked with beans, vegetables, and spices, the meat is tender and the broth is rich. Enjoy it with local bread for a unique flavor experience. 3. Candied Fruit and Cheese: Andorra's candied fruit is made with fresh local fruit, offering a sweet and sour taste. The cheese selection is diverse, with various textures and rich milky aromas, making them excellent souvenirs. 3. Must-See Attractions 1. Vallnord Ski Resort: This resort offers numerous ski slopes of varying difficulty levels, with complete facilities catering to both beginners and professional skiers. The surrounding snow-capped mountains offer breathtaking views, allowing you to enjoy magnificent scenery alongside skiing. 2. Andorra la Vella: The capital city, Andorra la Vella, is a shopper's paradise. Its narrow streets are lined with a dazzling array of shops, offering everything from high-end luxury goods to local handicrafts. The old town's unique architectural style is also full of historical charm. 3. Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley: This natural reserve in Andorra features lush forests, clear streams, and spectacular peaks. Hiking through it feels like stepping into a fairytale world, immersing you in the tranquility and beauty of nature. 4. Important Notes ⚠ 1. Visa: Andorra does not have its own visa system. You need a Schengen visa to enter. Ensure your visa is valid throughout your trip. 2. Transportation: Andorra has no airport. Generally, you need to arrive in a French or Spanish city first and then travel to Andorra by road. Domestic transportation is mainly by road, with many mountain roads. Exercise caution while driving. 3. Currency: The Euro is used. Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and shops, but cash may be required in some small shops or markets. It is advisable to prepare some small change in advance. 4. Language: The official language is Catalan. Spanish, French, and English are also commonly used. Knowing some basic phrases will be helpful for communication. 5. Environmental Protection: When admiring Andorra's natural scenery, pay attention to environmental protection. Do not litter and help maintain the pristine landscape. Andorra, this small country hidden in the Pyrenees, offers captivating scenery, unique cuisine, and rich culture. Come and embark on your dream journey!

Andorra, this pocket-sized country nestled in the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain, is like a gem cherished by time 💎. Despite its small size, it attracts tourists from all over the world with its unique charm. With magnificent snowy mountains 🏔️, ancient architecture, tempting cuisine, and exciting shopping experiences, it is a rare travel destination. 1. Climate and Best Time to Travel Andorra has a mountain climate with an average annual temperature of 9.9°C. Summers are dry and cool, with temperatures between 15-25°C, making it a good time to escape the heat. Winters are long and cold, with high mountain snow lasting up to 8 months. December to April is the golden period for skiing, with temperatures ranging from -5-5°C ❄️. 2. Must-See Attractions Sant Esteve Church: This Gothic church, dating back to the 11th century, is a landmark of Andorra. The semi-circular apse on the east side retains a Romanesque style. Inside, exquisite sculptures and frescoes create a solemn and sacred atmosphere. Grandvalira Ski Resort: The largest ski resort in the Pyrenees, it consists of five interconnected ski ⛷️ areas. With 193 km of slopes ranging from beginner to advanced, it caters to skiers of all levels. From December to May each year, the excellent snow conditions attract skiers from far and wide. Caldea Spa Center: One of the world's top spas and a landmark of Andorra. Facilities include waterfall pools, artificial waves, and Turkish baths. There are also restaurants, bars, spa and massage beauty areas, and shopping areas. In the evening, music 🎶 and light shows provide the perfect setting for relaxation. Plaça de la Rotonda: The heart of Andorra la Vella, surrounded by medieval buildings. The clock 🕰️ sculpture 🗿 in the square is a popular spot for tourists to take photos. Free Chinese maps 🗺️ and commemorative stamps are available at the tourist center. 3. Off-the-Beaten-Track Beauty Canillo: This town exudes medieval charm, with narrow streets and ancient stone houses that seem to transport you back in time. The central square has unique shops selling handicrafts, souvenirs, and food. Stroll through the streets and soak up the rich historical atmosphere. Coma Pedrosa National Park: Home to magnificent mountains ⛰️, clear lakes, dense forests 🌲, and rare flora and fauna. Hike through the mountains, admire the scenery, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy panoramic views of Andorra from the summit. 4. Local Cuisine Brochettes: Fresh meat marinated in special spices and grilled to perfection. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, the aroma is irresistible. Paired with local wine, it's a true delicacy. Cheese Fondue: A traditional dish made with melted cheeses 🧀, spices, and white wine. Dip bread 🍞 into the fondue for a rich and satisfying experience. It's a perfect winter warmer to share with family and friends. Stew: A common family dish made with beef 🐮, pork 🐷, or chicken 🐔 stewed with vegetables and spices. It's delicious and nutritious. Families often prepare this dish together for holidays or special occasions to celebrate togetherness and happiness. 5. Travel Tips Visa and Entry: Andorra itself does not require a visa, but you need a valid passport and a Spanish or French visa to enter. Transportation: There are no railways 🛤️ or airports. The main access is by road. Long-distance buses run from Barcelona, Toulouse, and other cities. Within Andorra, buses 🚌 are the main mode of transport. Car rental is also available, but the roads are winding, so drive with caution. Currency and Payment: The Euro is used. Most shops and restaurants accept credit cards. It is recommended to carry some cash for small payments. Shopping Information: Andorra is a duty-free haven, but Spanish customs may conduct strict checks upon departure. Do not exceed the duty-free allowance (900 euros per person). Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs, keep quiet in public places, dress appropriately when entering churches, museums, and other venues, and avoid discussing politics and religion.

🌟Day 1: A Tranquil Experience in the Valley🌟 As soon as you step into Andorra, a pure land surrounded by snow-capped mountains, time seems to slow down. Our first stop is the hidden valley cottage—Casa de la Vall.🏡 🌄In the morning, you are awakened by the crisp sound of birds outside the window. When you open the wooden window, you will see endless snow-capped mountains and green forests. The air is filled with the fragrance of pine wood, making you instantly intoxicated by the tranquility and beauty.🌳🏔️ 🏡The cottage is built with local wood, retaining the warmth and elegance of the Alpine style. The interior decoration is modern and comfortable, yet retains a natural charm. Every corner exudes a sense of home. Here, you can enjoy the embrace of nature and completely relax your body and mind. 🍽️At lunchtime, try some of Andorra's specialties. From stewed lamb to exquisite modern cuisine, every dish is a temptation for the taste buds. Don't forget to pair it with a glass of local wine to enhance the flavor.🍷🍲 🚶‍♀️In the afternoon, we set off on a hiking trip. Andorra has many well-marked hiking trails, from walks to mountain hikes, suitable for travelers of different physical abilities. Every step is full of new surprises, as if you are walking into a fairy tale world.👣🌄 🌌At night, return to the cottage, make a cup of hot tea, sit by the window, quietly admire the starry sky in the valley, and feel the rare tranquility and peace.🌌 🌟Day 2: Exploring the Perfect Combination of History and Nature🌟 🏰On the second day, we went to the old town of Andorra. Here, you can find well-preserved medieval buildings and museums to learn more about the country's history and culture. Built in 1580, Casa de la Vall is not only the location of the valley cottage, but also the former parliament building of Andorra. Downstairs is the court, and upstairs is the parliament hall, where you can feel the weight of history.🏛️ 🏂If it is winter, you can go to the Grandvalira ski resort for a try. It has world-class ski facilities and a variety of ski trails, so both beginners and experienced players can find fun.🎿 🌊After a day of activities, the Caldea Spa is a great place to relax. The warm spring water not only relieves fatigue, but also allows you to enjoy a rare tranquility and relaxation surrounded by mountains.🌊 🛍️Of course, as a duty-free country, Andorra is also a shopping paradise. Before returning, you can visit the local shopping malls and pick some favorite items as souvenirs.🛍️ 🌈The two-day Andorra Valley Cottage tour allowed us to escape the hustle and bustle, return to nature, and experience the dual charm of tranquility and adventure. Here, there is not only magnificent natural scenery, but also profound historical heritage and rich cultural experience. If you also long for a spiritual baptism, come here and take a look!🌈💖

#bucketlistreboot It is located at Parc de la Mola, 10, AD700, Escaldes-Engordany, Andorra. It operates from 10 AM to 10 PM, till midnight on Friday and Saturday. It opened a 30000 metre square spa in 1994, the largest spa centre in southern Europe . The centre consists of four parts, that is Thermoludic, Inuu, Orgins and Likids. Inuu reserved for people over 16 years old. Orgins are spa with lemon and grapefruit, Thermoludic have interior and exterior lagoon, panoramic thermal lagoon. Likids for kids between 3 to 8. After days of shopping and walking, why not have a soak, with the view of an 80 meter tower and surroundings.

#bucketlistreboot The church of Sant Pere Martir was built around 1956 by architect Joseph Danish, located at AD 700 Andorra La Vella. This neo-romanedque style church with a bell tower was built in carved granite stone. Since 2003 it was listed in the Andorran cultural heritage catalog as an asset of cultural interest.