The Principality of Andorra is a small landlocked country located in the eastern Pyrenees mountains and bordered by Spain and France. Once isolated, it is currently a prosperous country mainly because of tourism and its status as a tax haven. The mountains configured by plow lands, woods and meadows are the country's greatest natural wealth, which has been preserved over the centuries.

The landscape of Andorra

Andorra consists predominantly of rugged mountains of an average height of 1.996 m. with the highest peak being at 2.946 m. These are divided by three narrow valleys in a Y shape.

Large cities in Andorra

Andorra la Vella is the capital of Andorra and is located in the east Pyrenees between France and Spain. The city's old town is characterized by old stone streets and houses.

Tourist attractions in Andorra

Around 9 million tourists are attracted annually by Andorra's duty-free status. Andorra is able to sell a wide range of duty free products, including alcohol, perfume and cigarettes because it is not a member of the European Union. Andorra is a synonym for Romanesque art. There are 40 churches in its valleys as well as medieval bridges. There are the hot springs of Escaldes-Engordany, rich in sulphur and recommended for therapy and beauty treatments and preventing rheumatism and skin complaints.

Sports activities in Andorra

Andorra has several major ski resorts. These are very popular, particularly because their relatively gentle slopes are ideal for less experienced people as well as families. Horse rides, rock climbing, river sport with canoes and kayaks and hunting and fishing meets can also be practiced in Andorra. There are a number of hiking trails, which can be explored during the summer months.

Gastronomic characteristics of Andorra

Typical dishes are cold meats combined with vintage wines, wild mushrooms or river trout. The geographic location and climate makes Andorra the ideal place for enjoying cheese-based cuisine.

The climate of Andorra

The climate is high mountain type with Mediterranean influences, winter temperatures are low and cold and in summer they are mild and dry with large variations taking place according to altitude. Temperatures range from an average of around -2 °C in January and 24 °C in July. Autumn is the season with the highest rainfall.