hiking trails - Hotel del Tarter

Hiking in Andorra: the circular route of Andorra

3 de June de 20263 de June de 2026 by charles

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.

The top activities in Canillo to enjoy the summer

28 de April de 2026 by charles

Surprise yourself with all the activities that await you in Canillo this summer. Just a short distance from the hotel, you’ll find a host of proposals that you’ll love. Visit one of the longest Tibetan bridges in the world You will enjoy breathtaking views of La Vall del Riu. The Tibetan bridge, which opened last year, is suspended high in the mountains and has already become one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions. The walkway is designed to give the sensation of floating in mid-air, with nothing but the sky above your head and the mountain beneath your feet. This makes walking across the bridge a thrilling and unforgettable experience. But if you are afraid of heights, you may want to think twice before venturing across. At the end, you can still enjoy spectacular views if you combine your visit with the Roc del Quer viewpoint, located just a few metres from the Tibetan bridge (and another attraction not to be missed this summer). In this article we tell you everything you need to know about the Tibetan bridge in Canillo. Skating on an Olympic ice rink At the Palau de Gel in Canillo you can ice skate on an Olympic rink, an attraction open all year round. In summer, it’s an ideal way to escape the hottest hours of the day. For water lovers, the Palau de Gel also has a swimming pool with a solarium open in summer. Water fun in Canillo with Splash An activity that both kids and adults love! At the Palau de Gel swimming pool, you can enjoy the Splash activity, a 1-hour experience on water slides located in Canillo. The facility features 3 slides set at 7 meters high, with a 53-meter run, designed to offer fun and adrenaline in the pool. Touring the landscapes of the Incles Valley The Vall d’Incles is a natural area close to the hotel, where you can go on many excursions to lakes or peaks. Or if you prefer something lighter (but with dream views) follow the Obac path, from the beginning to the bottom of the valley. A practically flat walk of about 2 and a half kilometres that will not disappoint you and that you can do comfortably if you go with children. Playing golf on the highest green in Europe In summer you can play golf in Soldeu, on the highest course in Europe at an altitude of 2,250 metres, located in the Grandvalira resort. If you are a lover of this sport, you won’t be able to resist a visit to spend a few hours playing golf and enjoying the priceless views. To get there you have to go to Soldeu and take the 8-seater cable car. Discover the history of motorbikes Canillo is home to one of the most original museums in Andorra, where you can see authentic two-wheeled gems in excellent condition. It has more than 100 items that show the evolution of the motorbike from the end of the 19th century to the present day. A good place to lose yourself for a few hours and which you can also combine with the other attractions in Canillo. Book your hotel in El Tarter If you want more, follow our blog where we give you many more ideas for you to experience a very “top” summer with family and friends. Remember that we open on July 10 and kick off the summer season. We’re waiting for you!

Hiking: easy mountain treks in Andorra

7 de April de 2026 by charles

One of the top activities in Andorra when the winter season ends is, without a doubt, hiking in Andorra. With the arrival of warmer weather, the mountains transform into the perfect setting to enjoy nature, fresh air and unique landscapes. In addition, it is an activity you can practice with complete safety, as mountain trails are perfectly marked and signposted. Whether you are a beginner or traveling with family, you will find routes adapted to all levels, many of them available in trekking guides in paper or digital format. An easy route to do with the family: El Camí del Gall If you stay at Hotel del Tarter, at the foot of Grandvalira, you have access to some of the best hiking routes in Andorra without the need for long journeys. This privileged location allows you to combine comfort and nature, enjoying high mountain landscapes just minutes from your accommodation. Whether you are planning an active getaway or a family holiday, being close to Grandvalira is a great advantage for discovering routes adapted to all levels.One of the most recommended is El Camí del Gall, a simple route of approximately two hours that stands out for its accessibility and charm. It is ideal for those looking for a relaxed experience, without the need for great physical preparation, while still enjoying the beauty of the natural surroundings. In fact, it is a perfect option for family hiking in Andorra, as even the youngest can complete the route without difficulty. A red rooster shows you the way To make the most of this route, it is best to start in Soldeu and finish in Canillo. This way, the elevation gain is practically non-existent or even downhill, making the walk even easier. From the hotel, you can take a bus that will comfortably take you to Soldeu, the starting point of the route. The path begins next to the village’s riding center and is perfectly marked with red rooster-shaped paint signs, making it very easy to follow. This detail turns the route into an entertaining experience, especially for children, who can look for the signs along the way. Suspension bridges and stone steps Along El Camí del Gall, you will discover that hiking in Andorra is much more than just walking. The route is full of small surprises that make the experience even more special: wooden suspension bridges crossing streams, stone-carved steps and even a small tunnel. You will also find several information points where you can learn more about the flora, fauna and characteristics of the natural environment. These spaces are ideal for taking a break, resting and connecting with nature. Without a doubt, it is one of the most complete routes for those looking for a simple yet enriching experience near a hotel in Grandvalira. A mountain route with postcard views Don’t forget to bring your camera or phone, because the views along this route are spectacular. The landscape combines forests, mountains and traditional buildings that look like something out of a postcard. During the route, you can admire emblematic places such as the bordas of Vilar, the Church of Sant Joan de Caselles or the Seig river. El Camí del Gall, a unique hiking route to enjoy in summerIf you love the mountains, El Camí del Gall is just one of the many options you will find near our hotel close to Grandvalira. Take advantage of spring and summer, when the colors of the landscape are even more vibrant, to discover this route and many more.Come and enjoy the best hiking in Andorra, disconnect from routine and live a unique experience in the heart of nature. And when you return, tell us what you thought!

Hiking in Andorra: trail to Lake Siscaró in the Incles Valley

7 de August de 2024 by comunicacio

Andorra has around 80 lakes scattered throughout the country, which stand out for their beauty and surroundings. If you are looking for a hiking route to discover unknown natural areas, we recommend an excursion to one of the lakes in the Incles Valley: the Estanys de Siscaró. Here we tell you first-hand how to get to Siscaró lake. Technical details of the hike to Lake Siscaró We begin by providing you with a summary of the most important details of the route, so that you can get an idea and prepare yourself thoroughly before putting on your hiking boots. – Difficulty level It is classified as moderate, meaning that it does not require much previous experience, but you must be used to walking. The total distance is 3.58 kilometres. In total there are about 7 km, out and back with 500 metres of difference in altitude, with two climbs that are a little steeper. Don’t forget that the distances in the mountains have nothing to do with the equivalent walking in the city or on the beach. Here, every kilometre is more demanding, so you should anticipate about 2 hours uphill and about 1h30 downhill. – Where the route to Lake Siscaró begins Lake Siscaró is located at 2305 metres above sea level in the Incles Valley, very close to the Tarter hotel. The hike starts at the bottom of the valley past the Baladosa bridge at 1835 metres. In summer, the 3 km road in the valley is closed to vehicles from 10 am to 6 pm. If you arrive early in the morning you can go by car. Otherwise you can take the tourist train (for a fee, about €3 each way) or walk. How to get to Lake Siscaró From the bridge, walk along a forest track for about 15 minutes until you reach the Travenc crossroads. Take the path on the right and here begins the first steep climb over rocks. Halfway up you will find a waterfall, where you can make your first stop to take photos or have a snack. Then the path runs alongside a stream with crystal-clear water and some smaller waterfalls, until you reach the Basses de Siscaró, a flat and more open area. Take the path on the right, at the end of which a steeper climb awaits you. At the end of this climb, take the path to the left and it won’t take you more than 10 minutes to reach the Siscaró Baix lake. Once there: enjoy!The Siscaró ponds are named after the “Siscall” plant that grows in the waters of these lakes and the surrounding area. Recommendations before going to the mountains Bear in mind these tips for safe mountain activities. Although spring and summer are the recommended seasons for hiking, check the weather forecast before starting your route, as the weather in the mountains is changeable. Plan your route well before setting off and find out about the terrain. Carry a map of the route. Your phone’s GPS can do the job. Carry a charged mobile phone battery. Wear suitable footwear and clothing for the mountains. Trekking poles will be a great help to give you a boost on the climbs and support you on the descents. It is very important to stay hydrated, so take plenty of water. Take food to regain strength such as fruit, nuts, energy bars, sandwiches or biscuits. Wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. Take care of the environment, and have a bag in your backpack to return with your waste and dispose of it in the most appropriate container. It is best to do the route in company. If you are not sure of the route, it is always a good option to hire a mountain guide. They will show you the route and complement the excursion with their knowledge of the country’s flora and fauna and other curiosities that may arise along the way. Your rest in Andorra After this beautiful excursion, return to the hotel where your room awaits you. Enjoy a comfortable and spacious stay to recover after a day of hiking in the mountains. Book your room here and start planning your route.

Explore the charm of the Sorteny Valley in the summertime

7 de June de 2024 by comunicacio

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!