Have you ever heard about Andorra? Andorra is a small country in Europe, which doesn`t often appear in the news, so people don`t know much about it. Today we will talk about Andorra and answer some questions about it: Where is Andorra, how to travel to Andorra, what is the capital of Andorra, what is the Andorra flag, and others.
Where is Andorra?
Andorra is one of the smallest countries in Europe. The Principality of Andorra is located in Western Europe between Spain and France, and it has seashore. Cigarettes, cigars, and furniture production constitute the manufacturing industry of the country. Andorra language is Catalan, and Spanish is also spoken as an Andorra language.
Capital of Andorra
The capital of Andorra is Andorra La Vella, located in the Pyrenees. Andorra La Vella also is known as a duty-free retail hub. The city, Andorra La Vella, is also the highest in elevation in Europe.
The flag of Andorra consists of a vertical tricolour: blue, yellow, and red. The yellow bar of the flag of Andorra is wider than the other two bars. The template of the flag of Andorra was created in 1993. The Andorra population is 77 000.
How to travel to Andorra?
There is not any airport in Andorra. The closest Airports are Le Seu d’Urgell, Barcelona, Reus and Girona. All you need is to get a ticket to any closest airport. This is how to travel to Andorra.
So, let`s move to 9 reasons why you should travel to Andorra right now:
1. Nature of Andorra
Nature of Andorra is one of the reasons for visiting the country. Highest points, green or snowy forests, are a real paradise for green nature lovers. There are three natural parks: the Valle de Sorteny, Madriu-Perafita-Claror, and the Valles del Comapedrosa.
2. Tax-free shopping
Tax-free shopping is the main reason for visiting Andorra for tourists. It is an incredible experience with roughly 2000 stores all around the country. Most shops are located in the capital of the Principality of Andorra. The population of this city is only 22.000 people, but there are more than 400 shops in this city. Thanks to the favourable tax system of Andorra, the prices in Andorra are quite attractive. The best advantage of prices is that there are no sales taxes in addition to prices.
There are many international brands for men and women in Andorra, such as Benetton, Guess, Zara and others located in the main street of the capital city. Accessories are on the west side of the river. The Gallery Andorra, located in Avenue Meritxell, has the best selection of handbags and other luxury accessories.
It is impossible to imagine good shopping without lovely perfumes, and Andorra is the best place to buy several perfumes. In the main street of Andorra La Vella, you can find international and niche perfume boutiques. Do not forget to check duty-free export limitations.
If you are a sporting goods lover, then the Principality of Andorra is the right choice for shopping. The reason is to be close to hiking and biking trails. There are many sport equipment stores on the main street. The sports goods are sold seasonably.
3. The thermal water of Caldea
One of the highly appreciated resources of Andorra is the thermal waters of the country. There are 35 thermal springs in Andorra, and the hottest springs are mostly in the Pyrenean region. The thermal water of Caldea is one of them. The water surface is at 70C, and it is rich in saltine and oily planktons, sulphur, and minerals. It has natural anti-allergic, healing effects. The water, which is rich in medical properties, invites a million tourists every year.
4. Outdoor lagoons overlooking the mountains
Outdoor lagoon overlooking the mountains, Indo-Roman bath, aqua massage spaces, Icelandic bath, hammam, outdoor terraces can be the next locations in Andorra for spa lovers. The spa will be one of the most interesting experiences of your lifetime. There are outdoor lagoons overlooking the mountains, where the indoor lagoon water flows to the large outdoor lagoon. Amazing water experience will be even greater with a magnificent view. The temperature of the water is 34-36 C. Beds of bubbles, the stand-up Jacuzzi with a central geyser and waterfall will give a relaxing effect to your body. You can also take advantage of the contrast temperatures of the water.
5. Winter Sports
As Andorra is located in the Pyrenees, it is a mountainous country, and there are 65 peaks in the country. These peaks are 2000 meters altitude. That’s why Andorra is one of the famous countries for skiing. The most successful skiing tourism began in 2003 due to the Grandvalira project. Grandvalira is a skiing area which consists of Pas de la Casa, Grau Roig, Canillo, Soldeu, and El Tarter.
Other activities for those who love snow and fun:
- Snowshoe excursion through the forest
- Dog sledding
- Snowmobile guided tours
- Hiking
6. Architecture of Andorra
Architecture of Andorra was swayed by the other foreign countries. Although it is a small country, there is a lot of authentic stuff, and you can see the evidence of pre-roman and Romanesque time. The oldest churches of Andorra are known for their simple architecture and small size. There are more than 40 churches and monuments.
A typical example for the Andorran Churches is Sant Joan de Caselles Church built in the XI-XII centuries. The church is attributed to the Romanesque period. It has a wooden ceiling and a semicircular apse.
7. Night Parties
Although the country is known mainly by resorts and shopping, its nights are also lively. There are many night parties in the clubs of resorts.
8. Food of Andorra
The food of Andorra is qualified as mountain food, which is a part of the west Mediterranean Cuisine. Andorra food is seasonable and colourful. If you want to know about Andorra gastronomy, then follow our authentic food voyage:
Galtes de Pore (Pig Cheeks)
Yes, pig cheeks are eaten in Andorra. It has several variants to prepare. One of the receipts is like this: a combination of pork cheeks with red wine, celery leaves, leeks, broth, and other fresh staple ingredients like garlic, carrots, onions, tomatoes, salt and black pepper.
Escudella (boiled pork with vegetables)
It is eaten mostly in winter, and it has many types. Escudella is basically boiled pork with vegetables. Sometimes, it is added to shell macaroni.
9. Small villages
Another reason to visit Andorra should be its small villages for the great pictures. As you know, it is a small country, and there are more chances and time to take pictures everywhere rather than in other countries. The most famous village is Ordino - an evident example of Romanesque Architecture with stone houses and colourful restaurants great for your Instagram.
