In summer, Andorra becomes the perfect setting for practicing your favorite mountain sports. During these months it is practically impossible not to see a cyclist on the roads and paths of the country, enjoying the different routes available. A large number of amateur and professional cycling enthusiasts choose our country to practise their favourite sport. This is not only because of its geography and the number of routes available, but also because of the infrastructure and services it offers for cycling on a road bike, mountain bike or e-bike.
We tell you about it below.
Cycling in Andorra on a road bike
In Andorra you can cycle over a total of 21 mountain passes. Some of them are over 2,000 metres high and have become famous for being the stage for the Tour de France and the Tour of Spain.
You’ll be spoilt for choice! You have no less than 20 road cycling routes spread throughout the country. You can choose the level of difficulty, the duration and start pedalling whenever you want. And you’re guaranteed to get your heart rate up.
Road cycling routes
Do you want to know them? Here are 5 itineraries you cannot miss during your holidays.
Canillo – Coll d’Ordino
This route begins in the center of the village of Canillo at 1,523m altitude, more precisely at the roundabout leading to the road to Montaup. This route of 8.9 kilometers and 457 meters of ramp is accessible to everyone, and will make you discover the Coll d’Ordino, which connects with other cycle routes and will allow you to observe the Casamanya up close.
Engolasters
If you want to train for the MULTISEGUR Volta als Ports, or simply want to get to Engolasters Lake, this route is for you. Began to pedal in the valley and arrive at this famous place of the country after 6.4 kilometers of ascent. During your excursion, you will cross the Romanesque church of San Miquel d’Engolasters, one of the best preserved examples of this architectural current.
You can extend the route to Els Cortals d’Encamp along the Pardines path. A stretch of 4 km called “sterrato” in cycling because of its characteristics, it was included for the first time in the Vuelta in Spain in 2019.
Collada de Beixalís
This is another itinerary based on a great sporting event: La vuelta of Spain. Feel like the great cyclists of this competition for 6.6 kilometers that start at Encamp and ends at the hill of Beixalís and have an average dip of 8.4%.
Cortals d’Encamp
Pedal from the town of Encamp to the domain of Grandvalira with this 8.9 kilometer journey. Your excursion will start with a 10.2% incline that will become 5.4% once you reach the Rigoder’s Bordas area. And when you arrive, you can enjoy all the nature that surrounds you before returning to the starting point.
Port d’Envalira
This route, only suitable for highly trained people, starts in Escaldes-Engordany and ends at the port of Envalira, touching the border with France, making it one of the longest routes in the country with 26km and a total ramp of 1,345 meters. With your bicycle, you will pass by Escaldes-Engordany, Encamp and Canillo until arriving at the zone of the Pas de la Casa.
You can consult all the cycling routes of our country in this link.
If you have already decided which one you want to do, prepare your equipment, book your stay in Andorra and you can start pedaling as soon as you arrive.
Mountain routes for MTB and E-bikes
Cycle through forests and mountains in search of adventure or enjoy nature in a more relaxed way with your MTB or E-bike. Among the 200 kilometres of mountain bike routes in Andorra, you’ll find options for all levels, whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just want to take a trip with the family.
And if you really love this sport, you can’t miss out on a visit to the Pal Bike Park. It is located in the ski resort of Pal Arinsal, in La Massana, and it opens in summer, with circuits for all mountain biking disciplines. It also has a Kids Bike Park for the little ones to have a great time.
All the services for cycling
Andorra has everything you need for cycling. Specialised shops, shops for renting your road bike, mountain bike or E-bike, professionals who will guide you along the best trails and establishments that have made cycling their philosophy.
But if you’re a real fan, don’t miss the Bici Lab: a museum dedicated entirely to cycling, where you’ll discover historical pieces that will surprise you. It is located in the centre of the capital, next to the administrative building of the Andorran government.
And of course, cycle touring rides and cycling competitions are also on the calendar of summer activities in Andorra. Check this article for the dates of some of the most important ones.
At the Hotel del Tarter, we are waiting for you to come this summer and to come and explore the Principality on two wheels.
And if you come with your bike, don’t worry because you can store it in our bike locker.