Hiking in Andorra is one of the most popular activities when the snow melts. You’ll find trails to suit all tastes through mountains and spectacular landscapes. Families with small children are also welcome, thanks to accessible, well-marked trails of moderate difficulty. From leisurely strolls through green valleys to adventures at higher altitudes. On this occasion, we take you to the Sorteny Valley nature park to discover a place where you can explore nature and enjoy the great outdoors as a family.
The Sorteny Valley Natural Park
It is a starting point for many hiking routes, which are surprisingly beautiful and where you can do everything from easy to high-mountain itineraries. It is a place of scientific interest, for its fauna and flora, but also on a historical and educational level, as well as being a place to observe birds and butterflies.
Sorteny covers an area of 1,080 hectares and is located in the parish of Ordino, which in 2020 was named a Biosphere Reserve. The Vall de Sorteny nature park was created in 1999 with the aim of protecting the environment and conserving the natural heritage.
It is one of the three natural parks in Andorra, along with Madriu-Perafita-Claror and Comapredosa.
What to do in the Sorteny Valley Natural Park?
This park is home to the second and third highest peaks in Andorra: the Serrera peak at 2,914m and the Pico de l’Estanyó at 2912m. These are recommended hikes, but only if you have a good level and knowledge of the mountain. The difference in altitude is significant and you will need at least 4 hours to reach the summit.
Hiking in Andorra
In the Park you can do other less demanding excursions, such as the Estany de l’Estanyó lake, which is less steep and less time-consuming, as you can reach it in 2 hours.
It is also worth discovering the Planell del Quer, a 2-hour circular route that allows you to go through different, more accessible parts of the park, going up to the refuge and down through the Rialb Valley.
Guided routes
If you wish, you can choose some of the self-guided thematic trails with points of interest and signposted, very easy access, little slope and shorter, ideal to do when you go with small children.
For those who love guided excursions, the park offers different excursions that will allow you to get to know the environment much better. You can book them directly at the park.
Take note that in the car park there is a tourist office where they will give you information about Sorteny 😉.
How to get to the Sorteny Valley
Sorteny is located in the valley opposite the hotel in El Tarter, so you will have to take the car.
To get there go to the centre of Canillo and from there take the Montaup road which links to the Coll de Ordino. You’ll probably come across more than one cyclist and you’ll also see the Casamanya peak in all its splendour, one of the most emblematic peaks in Andorra.
When you reach the centre of Ordino, head towards the village of Serrat and about 500 metres from the exit you will find the park entrance.
You should be aware that the car park, in summer, is chargeable and as it is limited, we advise you to arrive early to find a parking space. The price of the parking space is fixed and costs around 4€.
Sleeping in Andorra
After touring the Sorteny Valley natural park, it’s time to return to the hotel. Get your strength back with a good dinner and rest in one of our cosy and comfortable rooms with mountain views.
You can now book your room, start preparing your getaway or holidays in Andorra and plan your hiking routes.
We’ll be back on 21 June!