CLIMBING IN ANDORRA

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Dominated by the Pyrenees mountains and sandwiched between France and Spain, Andorra is home to an abundance of natural treasures, rugged walls and a unique collection of cultural curiosities. Its mountains are great for both beginners to rock climbing as well as for those with previous experience. Visit during the warmer months between March and September for ideal rock climbing conditions.

There are many reasons for rock climbing in Andorra: pristine Pyrenean landscapes, charming valleys and majestic mountains populate the small state of Andorra, which offer interesting spots for rock climbing all over the country. The ancient isolated territory is located only two hours away from the Catalan capital of Barcelona. Yet you can enjoy climbing opportunities in such close proximity to the urban landscape.

The curious history of Andorra supposedly had its origins with Charlemagne, who united much of Europe in the 8th century. The country is headed by a co-monarchy, between the president of France and the bishop of Urgell. Andorra has cultivated a multitude of cultural and natural assets that are held in high regard, and are protected on the World Heritage list.

The pint-sized nation of Andorra offers a large collection of rock climbing possibilities in a country that rests on the Pyrenees. The top-class rock formations of the mountains here mean that whether you’re a fresh-faced beginner hoping to come to grips with your first climb, or a climber with a bit of experience, the landscape caters for all.

Enjoy climbing in Andorra

The temperate climate of Andorra experiences cold and snowy winters and warm and dry summers. The best time to visit is between March and September. Andorra is landlocked high up in the eastern Pyrenees mountains, sandwiched between Spain and France. The landscape is dominated by rugged mountains and narrow valleys, while its capital city of Andorra la Vella is the highest in Europe, at 1,023 m (3,350 ft). Flush with forest that rolls through the mountains, the country receives 300 days of sunshine per year and plenty of snowfall.

Andorra’s main natural asset are its incredible rocky mountains! If the Principality can boast of anything, it is to have a natural place like no other. Andorra gives us endless mountains with kilometers of snow in winter and amazing routes during the summer. It has more than 65 peaks that exceed 2,500 m (8,200 ft) in altitude. It may at first cause some respect since not everyone is accustomed to playing sports at that height. But, the truth is that the experience is so enriching that everyone who tries it ends up repeating.

Whether you’re looking for mountain rock climbing or climbing-wall climbing, you’ve chosen the ideal destination. Do you dare to discover with me the most vertiginous walls of the Pyrenees? So where to go to practice climbing? Most of the climbing walls and natural climbing routes are located in the interior of the country. There are many alternatives that Andorra offers, so it’s worth taking a look at all the options to find the one that’s right for you and your family.

Why should you try climbing in Andorra?

The Principality has multiple areas for climbing, where you will enjoy nature in its purest state. Also, each of these walls has incredible views of the entire mountainous territory. Here are some well-known Andorran climbing routes:

1- Pyramid: you will find it going from Santa Coloma towards Sant Julià de Lòria. On that same road, you will see a yellow dotted path that will take you to your destination. It has a medium-high level of difficulty, so if you have already practiced this type of sport again, it will be a wall that you enjoy climbing a lot. It has a height of 150 meters (490 ft) and is located at 1,200 meters (4,000 ft) of altitude, so it is not suitable for people with vertigo. Besides, due to its location, it can be climbed both in winter and in summer. Without a doubt, a great challenge for the brave-hearted.

2- Solà de Enclar: this is one of the places with the largest number of practicable walls in the country. It has four sectors: Cemetery, Bigabloc, Esfinx and Santa Coloma. To access this area, you must take the road from Santa Coloma to Santa Julià de Lòria, as in the previous route, but once you arrive, you must deviate along the cemetery path, you can’t miss it. Its difficulty is medium-high, so it is important that you go well equipped and always in the company of friends who also climb or an instructor.

Where to go climbing in Andorra

Another route option is number 3- Ribuls Peak: at 2,789 meters (9,150 ft) of altitude, in the circle of Pessons, is the Ribuls Peak. To get there, you must take the road that goes from Grau Roig station, so if you plan to go climbing in this area, my recommendation is that you stay at the Hotel Grau Roig. It is an exclusive hotel-spa, as it is situated in the middle of the mountain, surrounded by nature and with the ski slopes very near. It has the most recognised Andorran typical food restaurants in the country and its spa and massage area will make you forget everything and disconnect fully unwind. Without any doubt, one of the best combinations for a relaxing and climbing getaway.

4- Sant Antoni de la Grella: this is located between Escaldes-Engordany and La Massana. It is relatively easy to get there since it can almost be seen from the same road. Also, the road couldn’t be more beautiful, as you will pass through the bridge of Sant Antoni, one of the most charming stone bridges in the Principality. The wall has an altitude of 1,150 meters (3,770 ft) and the panoramic views offered by its highest point are spectacular. Without a doubt, one of the best recommendations is to practice climbing in this area.

If you’d rather climb on a climbing wall, which is safer if you are starting in the world of climbing and you will still enjoy a fun adventure, here are some recommendations. It has several areas with different difficulties and is suitable for everybody. The Climbing Walls of Ordino and Canillo are both exterior, which will make the experience more complete and more like a natural rock. Besides, they have packages and deals that include material and even instructors if necessary.

The Climbing Walls of Encamp and the Pas de la Casa both have very attractive rates and are in sports centres, so in addition to practicing climbing, you can practice any of the other sports offered.

Finally, if you are staying in the Encamp area, you should visit the Cortals d’Aventura Climbing Wall. It is open all year and is very close to the famous Funicamp. If you want to spend a pleasant day doing one of your favorite sports, this will be a great choice.

Climbing is one of the most active sports and at the same time one of the most rewarding. That feeling of having reached the top with your own hands and feet is only felt when you practice climbing. So, get the best equipment, choose your favourite area and enjoy climbing in Andorra. You’ll return home and tell all your friends about it, and you’ll want to repeat the experience bringing them with you!

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