Andorra: A Guide to Skiing, Hiking, and Cultural Experiences
Andorra is a tiny dot on the map. An independent principality dwarfed by France and Spain, it is most famous for being a tax haven and is a popular tourist destination peppered with summer and winter resorts.
Following centuries of struggle between the counts and the bishops of Urgell for the surrounding valleys, Andorra came into being in 1278 when the Spanish bishop of La Seu d’Urgell and the French House of Foix established co-sovereignty of the area.
The French and Spanish continued to tussle over the region and it was only in 1993 that it officially became an independent state, obtaining its first written constitution. With this mixed history, it is no surprise that true Andorrans are a minority in their own country. Spaniards, French, and Portuguese make up the majority of the population.
The country occupies 181 square miles (468 sq km) and is mountainous and beautiful, dotted with lakes, forests, and three major rivers, along with the typical flora and fauna of the Pyrenees. Its principal and most populated town is Andorra la Vella with several museums and monuments to explore, including the Miniature Museum, a perfume museum, and an ethnographic museum.
However, the principal reason for visits to Andorra is for the excellent skiing. The country boasts several major ski resorts, including Grandvalira (formerly called Soldeu/El Tartar) and Vall Nord (formerly Arcalis/Ordino), which cater for all types of skiers.
Beyond skiing, Andorra offers plenty of hiking opportunities, horse riding, and golfing. Visitors can also enjoy relaxing in some fine restaurants and cafes, and, of course, partaking in some excellent duty-free shopping.
Key Facts
- Language:
- The official language of Andorra is Catalan, which is used in administration and business. More than half the population speaks Spanish, and French and Portuguese are also spoken.
- Passport/Visa:
All visitors must have a valid passport with a recommended validity of at least six months past the date of departure from Andorra. The passport must have one unused page for visa issuance. Although there are no visa requirements for Andorra, travellers must have the relevant documentation for either France or Spain, depending on which country will be transited to reach Andorra, and should apply to the relevant embassy in their home country. Visitors must also hold onward tickets, all other documents required for next destination, and sufficient funds.
- Currency:
The unit of currency in Andorra is the Euro, divided into 100 cents. Currency can be exchanged at banks and bureaux de change. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants; ATMs are widely available.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Round pin attachment plugs and Shuko plugs and receptacles with side grounding contacts are in use.
Climate in Andorra
Andorra’s climate is typical of mountainous areas, with cold winters and mild summers. The climate is dry, with a large number of sunny days. Autumn experiences the highest rainfall, while winter gets plenty of snow, guaranteeing excellent skiing conditions and drawing in the crowds to the various ski resorts. The average temperature range is between 28ºF (-2ºC) and 75ºF (24ºC).
Health Notes when travelling to Andorra
There are no health risks associated with travel to Andorra, but it is recommended that travellers are up to date with routine immunisations. Medical care in Andorra and neighbouring Spain and France is excellent, but can be expensive and medical insurance is advised.
Safety Notes when travelling to Andorra
There are no risks associated with travel to Andorra, but travellers should always be vigilant and not display valuables.
Customs in Andorra
Andorrans tend to be friendly and courteous. Smoking is common, although restrictions have been placed in neighbouring Spain. It’s forbidden to drink alcohol on the street and the country has a zero policy to the possession and use of illegal drugs.
Duty Free in Andorra
There are no regulations other than those of France or Spain, and visitors must follow the details of whichever country they transit to reach Andorra. Andorra itself is duty free.
Doing Business in Andorra
Catalan is the official language of Andorra, although Spanish is widely spoken. A small minority speak French, and English is minimal. It is best to ascertain before meetings which language will be used. Punctuality is important, handshakes are the norm on greeting, and business attire should be smart and formal.
Communication in Andorra
The international access code for Andorra is +376. Visitors with unlocked phones can use local SIM cards; WiFi is widely available in most cafes, hotels and restaurants.
Tipping in Andorra
Tipping is not expected in Andorra, though a gratuity of between five and 15 percent for waiters and taxi drivers is very welcome.
Passport/Visa Note
All visitors must have a valid passport with a recommended validity of at least six months past the date of departure from Andorra. The passport must have one unused page for visa issuance. Although there are no visa requirements for Andorra, travellers must have the relevant documentation for either France or Spain, depending on which country will be transited to reach Andorra, and should apply to the relevant embassy in their home country. Visitors must also hold onward tickets, all other documents required for next destination, and sufficient funds.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
United States citizens need a passport that is vaid for six months beyond the duration of their to enter Andorra. The relevant regulations and visa requirements of France or Spain must be met.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadians need a passport to enter Andorra, and the relevant regulations and visa requirements of France or Spain must be met.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British nationals need a passport that is valid for three months beyond the duration of their stay to enter Andorra. They don’t need a visa to visit Andorra. If they wish to stay for longer than three months, they must apply for a work or residence permit through the local immigration services.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australians need a passport to enter Andorra, but no visa is required. However, the relevant regulations and visa requirements of France or Spain must be met.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish nationals need a passport to enter Andorra, and the relevant regulations and visa requirements of France or Spain must be met.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand nationals need a passport to enter Andorra, and the relevant regulations and visa requirements of France or Spain must be met.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South Africans need a passport to enter Andorra, and the relevant regulations and visa requirements of France or Spain must be met.
Tourist Offices
Ministry of Tourism and Environment: http://www.andorra.ad
Andorra Embassies
- In the United States:
Andorra Embassy, New York, United States: +1 (212) 750-8064.
- In the United Kingdom:
Andorra Embassy, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 8874 4806.
Foreign Embassies in Andorra
- American Embassy
United States Embassy, Madrid, Spain (also responsible for Andorra): +34 91 587 2200.
- Canadian Embassy
Canadian Embassy, Madrid, Spain (also responsible for Andorra): +34 91 382 8400.
- British Embassy
British Consulate, Barcelona, Spain (also responsible for Andorra): +34 902 109 356.
- Australian Embassy
Australian Embassy, Madrid, Spain (also responsible for Andorra): +34 91 353 6600.
- Irish Embassy
Irish Embassy, Madrid, Spain (also responsible for Andorra): +34 91 436 4093.
- New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand Embassy, Madrid (also responsible for Andorra): +34 915 230 226.
- South African Embassy
South African Embassy, Madrid, Spain (also responsible for Andorra): +34 91 436 3780.
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