Trekking and Adventure in Andorra - Grandvalira is the destination that has it all

If trekking and adventure are your thing, Andorra is the destination par excellence. Is just perfect for anyone looking to combine their love of mountains and sport, with its fantastic range of trails. Whatever your level, there's something for everyone, whether you're looking for a real challenge or something a bit easier on the legs, with trails of varying difficulty spread out across all te the parishes of the Principallity.

Trekking and Adventure Routes from Canillo

The Canillo trails are a real treat for adventurers, and with 11 routes you're spoilt for choice! These trails take you to some of the parish's most remote spots, where you can explore out-of-the-way lakes, and scale some of the area's highest peaks. There are even via ferrata or ‘iron path' trails, protected climbing routes found in mountainous areas, if you're feeling particularly adventurous. And after all that excitement, what better way to round it off than with a delicious lunch at one of the renowned high-altitude restaurants in the area, followed by spending the night in a cosy mountain refuge?

Routes from Encamp

Encamp ofers also fantastic options for trekking in the parish. With 17 routes of varying difficulty, you can choose between easy, medium, and difficult, so there's something for every adventurer, whether you're looking for a bit of a challenge, or just wanting to take in some of the stunning scenery.

Trekking and adventure lovers get to choose between a great variety of options. You can take a brisk walk or a pleasant stroll around Pessons Lake, before getting cosy and enjoying some delicious Andorran cuisine at the traditional Llac de Pessons Restaurant. Or why not try one of the via ferrata, or climbing one of the high-altitude Pic dels Pessons, Pic de Ribuls or Pic Alt del Cubil? For the more seasoned climbers, or if you're after some extra adrenaline in your route, there are also several sharp mountain ridges there for the climbing, at a range of different levels. All trails start from different points so, you can begin at Pas de la Casa, Grau Roig or from Encamp.

Route to the Refugio de l’Illa

Another adventurous option can be enjoyed by day or night - the hike to the Refugio de L'Illa, in Escaldes parish. With several starting locations, all take you to the mountain shelter, located in the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site. Set off in the morning, and you'll be in perfect time to get your strength back with a hearty lunch at the mountain shelter. Or if you're hankering after an extra buzz, set off by night from Grau Roig (Encamp). This five-hour trek through the heart of the Pyrenees also ends at the Refugio de l’Illa, where you can enjoy a steaming hot shower, get comfy, relax, and revel in your achievement with a delicious dinner, prepared with locally sourced produce.

The Refugio de l’Illa Mountain Shelter

Nestled at an altitude of 2,488 metres, in the Valley of Madriu-Perafita-Claror, the shelter can accommodate 50 guests with comfy beds and bedding, hot showers and Wi-Fi, plus a full catering service. A mountain home from home!

So if you're looking for trekking and adventure, Andorra is the perfect option. With something for adventurers at every level, breathtaking scenery, incredible local food, and several cosy mountain retreat to kick back and relax after all that exertion, what are you waiting for?