Andorra Trip Report - Family Adventure Holidays Worldwide
Rachel Clarke - Pyrenean Summer Trip May 2008
When our managing director asked me if I wanted to go to Catalunya on a Hiking and Gastronomy inspection visit, I thought Xmas had come early. I spent four days exploring the Garrotxa and the Costa Brava, the wild flowers were out in force and the food was out of this world! Catalunya is a fabulous destination - so watch next years brochure for a possible walking, biking (and dining) holiday in this region.
From Girona I drove across the Pyrennees and into Andorra to finalise arrangements for our new trip in the Pyrennes which will be based in the mountain village of Soldeu. There are many tunnels en-route, which take a little getting used to driving through and some of the mountain views make you gasp as you pass by, its was hard to keep my eyes on the road.
I visited the valleys where our walks will be taking place. Mountain rivers are currently in full flow from the melting snows and fresh mountain air gives you a spring in your step. Ragged mountain peaks tower above your head and into the clouds.
We rode quad bikes, past farmhouses and high up into the mountains (unfortunately for us in pouring rain) the drive was exciting and the views at the top were cloud ridden but still spectacular. It felt like being on top of the world, looking down at toy-town below.
In the evening I also visited La Caldea an amazing complex of relaxing pools and waterways, with indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis in thermal therapeutic waters to rejuvenate your stressed bodies. Relaxing in the warmth of an outdoor Jacuzzi looking up at mountains and stars was an incredible feeling, (yes boss I was working hard!). The evening closed with an amazing light and sound show.
Andorra is probably one of the world's safest country's - so ideal for families. Until recently the locals used to leave their cars unlocked and keys in the ignition.
On my return journey I stopped in La Seu D'Urgell, the first and last town in Spain before you enter Andorra. La Seu is a lovely Spanish town with a medieval cathedral and plenty of winding streets to explore. Behind the cathedral there is a large park which is also home to the Olympic Park del Segre built for the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. This is an excellent facility for canoeing, rafting and kayaking on man made slalom courses. I was here very early in the morning but the locals were just beginning to get themselves ready for action along the rapids. For children (or parents) who have never rafted before, this is an excellent chance to try out the sport in controlled safety and guaranteed water levels, with enough of a thrill for beginners and plenty of entertainment for spectators!
The Itinerary
- Day 1 - Fly to Barcelona and transfer to our Andorran base.
- Day 2 - Walking in the mountains from lake to lake, stop for a swim if you wish.
- Day 3 - Walking and visits to local museums for an insight into Andorra's past.
- Day 4 - Via Ferrata, Canyoning, Quad biking, Mountain biking.
- Day 5 - An exciting day just over the border in France, zip wiring and mountain biking.
- Day 6 - Walking in the Pyrenees mountains.
- Day 7 - Visit to a Spanish town and traditional market plus some rafting or canoeing.
- Day 8 - Transfer to Barcelona. Fly to London
Andorra
Andorra has just finished another busy skiing season, with heavy late snows this April they are still slowly emerging into Spring. There was a lot of snow topping the mountain peaks still and the wild flowers were just beginning to emerge in the valley. A carpet of daffodils was just beginning to bloom and will be followed by more species which last the whole summer through. In the villages people were just starting to get their window boxes ready for the plethora of geraniums which decorate the hotels and houses in summer.
Europe's smallest country, this duty free mountain paradise offers a peaceful haven for lovers of the great outdoors.
The Accomodation
Our hotel is a four star property located just on the edge of Soldeu village with lovely mountain views around. Rooms are all ensuite and comfortable. There is an indoor swimming pool and an outdoor plunge pool with plenty of outdoor space for children. Our program includes half board, with an extensive buffet dinner selection so nobody will go hungry on this trip!
The excursions
The trip includes walking, biking and the highlight is the fabulously exciting zip wires which are just across the French border. There are also many optional activities which are easily organised near by, choose from quad bikes, horse riding, canyoning, via ferrata, cable car and others, not to mention duty free shopping if you have time.
I'm sure you will enjoy discovering the secrets of Andorra, I certainly did!