Hiking in Andorra: the circular route of Andorra
Hiking season begins. Andorra offers routes adapted to all levels and ages, with an extensive network of well-marked mountain trails. In addition, tourist offices provide useful information to discover new itineraries and, if you wish, hire a guide to enjoy the surroundings safely. On our blog, we love sharing routes with you. Today we suggest the circular route of Canillo. A very complete route recommended for expert hikers. It is ideal if you are passionate about nature, practice trekking with experience and are looking for new challenges. The circular route of the parish of Canillo This is a demanding route, classified as difficult and long-distance, with a 30-kilometer itinerary. For this reason, it is essential to have good physical preparation and previous mountain experience before undertaking it.The itinerary surrounds the entire parish of Canillo, the largest in Andorra, and crosses some of its most emblematic points, mountain villages, forests, trails, meadows and valleys. One of its main attractions is that it covers both sides of the parish, showing its contrasts. Along the way, different types of terrain are combined, from cobbled paths and forest tracks to short stretches of road or paved areas. Start of the route and first points of interest The circular route of Canillo begins in the village of Canillo, near the Santa Creu chapel, and continues along the Prats road. Along the route, you will discover some of the most emblematic places in the parish, such as the Meritxell sanctuary, the famous Seven-Armed Cross or the church of Sant Miquel de Prats, a small jewel of Andorran Romanesque art. You will also pass by the unique natural formation known as the Roca del Home Mort. Valleys, mountain villages and panoramic landscapes It crosses some of Andorra’s most representative valleys, such as the Montaup valley, Incles and Vall del Riu. In several sections, it follows the course of the Valira d’Orient river, a tributary of the Gran Valira, and allows you to discover typical mountain villages, such as Els Plans or Ransol, as well as traditional bordas in areas such as Mereig or l’Armiana. During the Canillo circular route, you will enjoy magnificent views of peaks such as Casamanya, Estanyó, Alt de Juclà or Escobes peak. Fauna and flora of the Canillo circular route During the route, you can appreciate typical mountain vegetation, with species such as Scots pine, broom, common juniper, birch or alpine rose. As for fauna, the area is home to animals such as vultures, bearded vultures, capercaillies, Pyrenean chamois and roe deer. Although they are not always easy to spot, walking in silence and paying attention to the surroundings can increase the chances of seeing some of these species. How to organize the Canillo circular route This is a hiking route in Andorra that can be completed in a single day, lasting between 9 and 11 hours. Or you can also plan it in stages over several days. The important thing is to enjoy the mountains at your own pace. However, if you want to be on the safe side, you can consider hiring an experienced mountain guide. In addition to guiding you along the right path, they will also give you advice on how to experience the mountains safely and adapt to your level.If you are interested in mountain trekking in Andorra, Hotel del Tarter can arrange this type of service. You only need to let us know when booking your room.