The best of Andorra’s natural beauty

The principality of Andorra packs a huge amount of natural beauty into a tiny space. In summer, waterfalls plunge from Pyrenean crags down to valleys filled with flowers, while winter blankets the country in pristine snow.

Here are Andorra’s most highly rated nature spots, according to global travellers.

Incles, Canillo

The wide U-shaped Vall d’Incles was carved out by glaciers over thousands of years. Icy streams tumble over rocks along the valley floor, and its craggy slopes are dotted with dark green conifers. This alpine vale is the starting point for some outstanding hikes – strike out along the Roc de l’Home Dret trail, or head up the valley to Juclà, Andorra’s largest lake. After a long day’s trekking, curl up in front of the log fire in the cosy lounge at Hotel Parador Canaro & Ski.

Canillo, Canillo

The Mirador Roc del Quer is proof that exceptional views needn’t mean hours of hiking. The wood-and-glass walkway juts out 12 metres over Canillo, with sheer cliffs dropping down through the clouds to reveal a patchwork of villages and fields beneath. A well-maintained path leads up from the car park – only 300 metres away – meaning the skywalk is accessible even for visitors with reduced mobility. Stay at Obaga Blanca & Spa, where you can gaze up at the mountains from a bubbling hot tub.

Arinsal, La Massana

Best known as part of the Vallnord Pal-Arinsal ski resort, Arinsal is the gateway to the Valls del Comapedrosa Nature Park. Experienced hikers can tackle Andorra’s highest peak, Coma Pedrosa, passing fragrant pine forests and waterfalls along the way. Try the Estanys de Tristaina Trail for a more laid-back summer ramble – or an energetic winter snowshoe – rewarded by glorious views of three crystalline pools. Back in Arinsal, Aparthotel Sant Andreu has a sauna where you can steam away any post-hike aches.

Encamp, Encamp

Madriu-Perafita-Claror is Andorra’s untamed heart, a UNESCO-protected wonderland of glassy lakes and shadowy peaks. The upper valley’s steep-sided glacial cirque formed during the last Ice Age, and is home to dozens of native species – expect marmots, chamois and wild ponies. Lower down, wilderness gives way to pastures dotted with ancient shepherd’s huts. There are no roads here, which adds to the remote feel, though Encamp village is a mere 8 km away. Spend the night at Apartaments del Meligar, a family-run aparthotel on the edge of town.

Ransol, Canillo

Close to the pistes of El Tarter, Ransol rings with the sound of birdsong and cowbells. This narrow valley provides habitats for an astonishing array of wildlife, from bears to golden eagles. Starting in Ransol village, a trail zigzags up forested slopes, over cascading streams and along ridges to Pic de la Serrera. On clear days you can see three different countries from the summit, with the French border right below and the Spanish Pica d’Estats visible in the distance. Hotel del Tarter makes a great base camp, and is renowned for its hearty meals.