Hotel del Tarter

Ctra. N-II El Tarter AD100 Canillo Principado de Andorra.
Tel. +376 80 20 80 Fax +376 80 20 81 reserves@hoteldeltarter.com
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activities with kids

Summer plans for a rainy day in Andorra with the whole family

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In this blog we tell you about the countless outdoor activities you can do in Andorra related to the mountains and nature in summer, but what happens when it rains? Well, the fun continues! In summer, the weather is often unpredictable and sometimes the rains also make their appearance, especially in the afternoons. But don’t worry.Andorra offers a wide variety of alternative proposals for a rainy summer day. Here are some options you can do with your children. Museum itinerary for rainy days You’ve probably heard that Andorra is one of the countries with the highest density of museums per square metre. But perhaps you don’t know all the themes they cover. Here we leave you with a route of 3 museums that are sure to appeal to both young and old alike. And they will also allow you to explore the whole country. – The Automobile Museum We begin with the museum dedicated to the world of automobiles, located in Encamp. It is a journey through the evolution of the car, where you will find some real gems. From the steam engine of the late 19th century to emblematic sports cars of the 1980s. – The Areny-Plandolit House Museum On this occasion, you will have to go to the centre of Ordino to visit an Andorran manor house from the 18th century. The rooms, furniture and items from this period have been preserved. In addition, Don Guillem d’Areny Plandolit himself, resident in the house a very influential character, will tell you first-hand about aspects of his life linked to the history of Andorra. The experience is presented with a montage that fuses holograms and physical objects from the house. – The Bici Lab Museum The bicycle is the star of this recently created museum, which houses one of the most important collections in Europe. Here you can also see a permanent exhibition of antique pieces and see how they have evolved. The most advanced technologies are also present in this museum, where you can experience the sensations of descending on a mountain bike thanks to a simulator or try other virtual reality experiences. Exploring Andorra on the tourist bus It’s always an excellent option to take the tourist bus around the country. You can choose from seven different circuits, each with a tour guide who will reveal the secrets of each itinerary. The tourist bus operates from 1 July to 15 September, every day of the week, offering half-day excursions in the morning. Each itinerary is themed, covering aspects such as art, traditions, Romanesque and traditional crafts, and all will allow you to discover Andorra’s breathtaking landscapes and panoramic views. Swap the rain for thermal water One of the best ways to enjoy a rainy day in Andorra is to visit Caldea with its thermal waters, jacuzzis, saunas and Turkish baths. If you have children over 5 years old, choose the Classic ticket (with children aged 3 and 4, the Classic ticket will allow them access to Likids, a thermal experience just for children with monitors who will be supervising them and preparing activities while those over 5 years old enjoy Caldea’s facilities). It is the perfect plan for hot rainy days. Check our offer with hotel and entrance to Caldea. Shopping in Andorra A rainy day is the perfect excuse to go shopping and take advantage of the summer sales. The centre of Andorra la Vella and Escaldes-Engordany is known for its shops, where you can find everything. From electronics and technology to clothes, fashion and perfumes. The shops are concentrated in the Meritxell and Carlemany avenues or the Riberaygua area and crossings. In addition, of course, to Pas de la Casa, offering a comfortable and pleasant shopping experience. Rain in summer doesn’t have to ruin your holidays in Andorra. You’ll find a wide variety of alternative B plans that won’t be affected by the weather. So next time you see clouds on the horizon, remember that every day is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories.We are waiting for you to enjoy a perfect holiday, rain or shine!

Explore the jewels of Romanesque art in Andorra

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Complete your trip to Andorra with a visit to some of the country’s most iconic Romanesque churches. They are the best-kept secret, as they are closed to the public for most of the year and only open in summer. From mid-June to September they offer guided tours to get a closer look at them. Sant Joan de Caselles This is one of the most representative Romanesque churches in Andorra. It is located at the entrance to the town of Canillo. It dates from between the 11th and 12th centuries and is of typical Romanesque construction, with a rectangular nave with a wooden roof and a Lombard bell tower. The two porticoes you will see were added in the 16th and 17th centuries. Inside there are vestiges of a Romanesque stucco majesty from the 12th century, completed by murals and an altarpiece. It has a charm that makes it very special Perhaps because of the construction itself or because of the location, next to the river with the mountain in the background, we don’t know! You’ll have to visit it and tell us what you liked most about this Romanesque church in Canillo. The medieval complex of Les Bons Next, we’ll take you to the pretty village of Les Bons in Encamp, to visit not just a Romanesque church, but a historic complex. Start with the church of Sant Romà de les Bons, which is, of course, of Romanesque origin. What makes it unique is the construction of the rectangular nave, the reproductions of the murals of the Master of Santa Coloma and the original stone altar table. But not only this, as it is completed with the remains of a 4-storey defence tower, two dovecotes and a water tank excavated in the rock. Impressive views When you see the situation you will understand why this was the best lookout point, as the views cover all sides. Today it is a point of interest worth visiting, both for the heritage and the landscape. Santa Coloma and the Columba space It is listed as the oldest church in Andorra, as evidenced by its pre-Romanesque style construction from the 8th and 9th centuries. It also contained murals by the master of Santa Coloma, which, as in many other churches, are no longer inside, but can be seen thanks to a video-mapped recreation. The original paintings are now, after years of waiting, in the Espacio Columba, a very interesting museum located a few metres from the church. Romanesque murals In the 1930s they were sold and after many efforts on the part of the Andorran authorities, they managed to recover them in 2007. But due to the changes that the church has undergone, they can no longer be exhibited in their original place. So now they can be seen in the Columba space, where you can also enjoy permanent exhibitions of Romanesque art objects. Romanesque-style monuments Apart from the Romanesque churches in Andorra, there are also other buildings in this artistic style in a good state of conservation. A good example is the bridge of La Margineda, not far from the church of Santa Coloma, the bridge of La Tosca in Escaldes-Engordany or the bridge of Sant Antoni de la Grella. Visiting the churches and other Romanesque monuments is an experience that takes you back in time. Afterwards, relax in our mountain hotel Discovering the Romanesque churches is a fascinating experience not to be missed. What better way to continue your journey than staying in one of our rooms? We offer all the comfort and warm hospitality you need to rest and recharge your batteries.Book now and enjoy a complete cultural and relaxing experience. We are waiting for you!

Explore the charm of the Sorteny Valley in the summertime

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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!

Splash, the new attraction at the Palau de Gel for the summer evenings

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The Palau de Gel has launched Splash, a new water slide activity that is going to be all the rage this summer. Just a five-minute drive from the hotel, it promises to be the perfect refuge from the heat on summer afternoons. Located in the swimming pool of the Canillo resort, it guarantees fun and laughter for the whole family after a day in the mountains. It will undoubtedly be one of the attractions of the year. Splash: Andorra’s new water attraction Launched at the beginning of this year 2024, Splash has 3 large water slides inside the centre’s pool with a 53-metre ride at a height of 7 metres. The activity lasts one hour and to enter you must be at least 1.20 metres tall and children under 10 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. All participants must bring a swimming costume, towel, cap and bathing shoes. Don’t forget to book in advance, as places are limited, but this way you can make sure you go at the time that suits you best. Tickets are sold directly on their website as individual or family packages. Children between 3 and 12 years old can have fun on the slides in the small pool. Olympic ice rink at Palau de Gel Located right in the centre of Canillo, the sports complex also houses the only ice rink in Andorra. It has Olympic-sized ice rinks and has had its facilities renovated this winter. From its stands it is common to see skating and ice hockey competitions. But it is also open to the public, where you can ice skate with the whole family. In addition to the swimming pool and the Olympic ice rink, the centre also offers tennis and squash courts, a climbing wall and a sports hall. The Palau de Gel has individual or family tickets to combine entry to Splash with ice skating or the climbing wall. Canillo: a lively parish all year round When you stay at the Hotel del Tarter you have an endless number of activities at your fingertips. Very close to the Palau de Gel is the cable car to Grandvalira. It is open both in winter to reach the ski slopes and in summer where you can enjoy the activities in the heart of nature at Mon(t) Magic. Canillo is also home to the most famous viewpoint in Andorra: the Roc del Quer, and very close by is the spectacular Tibetan Bridge. You can also enjoy a large number of hiking routes without leaving the parish. Discover all the activities you can do in Canillo in this blog article. Outdoor activities for all tastes If you are planning a few days’ holiday in Andorra, you can make the most of them to discover all the leisure and activities on offer that go perfectly with Splash. In addition to physical activities, Andorra is also a paradise for culture lovers. During the summer, the streets come alive with open-air music festivals, attracting rhythms to suit all tastes. Such as Classicand, the Jazz festival, the Jambo held in the capital. Or, very close to the hotel: Andorra Mountain Music, from 29 to 30 June. Three-star hotel at the foot of the Grandvalira ski resort The Hotel del Tarter is a family-run hotel that guarantees you a comfortable and pleasant place to rest. It is also the perfect starting point to enjoy all that Andorra has to offer during the summer. From exciting water adventures at Splash del Palau de Gel to exploring the nature and culture of the country. We assure you that your stay will be unique. Plan your trip this summer and experience the magic of Andorra with us. We look forward to seeing you from 21 June.