Refugi del Riu dels Orris: A Mountain Haven
Discover a serene mountain escape at Refugi del Riu dels Orris, a historic Andorran refuge in the heart of the Pyrenees.
The Refugi del Riu dels Orris, located at 2,230 meters in the parish of Escaldes-Engordany, is a welcoming sight for hikers traversing the Andorran Pyrenees. Inaugurated in 1981, this stone-built, unmanned refuge offers a place to rest and rejuvenate amidst breathtaking natural beauty. The refuge is open year-round, providing basic amenities such as bunk beds and a fireplace, making it a valuable resource for those exploring the region. Historically, the area around the Refugi del Riu dels Orris has been used for centuries. Archaeological evidence reveals Roman presence dating back to the 1st century AD, with remnants of stone circles used for livestock farming. A 2nd-century oven, possibly used for resin production, has also been excavated near the site, adding to the historical significance of this mountain location. The refuge is situated at the confluence of the Riu dels Orris and Riu Madriu rivers, within the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This valley is a popular destination for hiking, with numerous trails crisscrossing the landscape. The GR7, GR11, and GRP paths all pass near the refuge, providing access to stunning alpine lakes, glacial cirques, and diverse flora and fauna. The refuge itself has six spaces. Whether you're seeking a challenging trek or a peaceful retreat in nature, the Refugi del Riu dels Orris offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and history of the Andorran Pyrenees.
Local tips
- The refuge is unmanned, so bring your own food, water, and sleeping bag.
- Check weather conditions before you go, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
- Follow marked trails to ensure you stay on the right path and avoid getting lost.
- Be prepared for varying temperatures; dress in layers and bring appropriate hiking gear.
- Leave no trace: Pack out everything you pack in to help preserve the natural environment.
A brief summary to Refugi del Riu dels Orris
- Les Escaldes, AD700, AD
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Walking
From Les Escaldes or Andorra la Vella, the most direct approach to Refugi del Riu dels Orris involves a multi-stage journey combining local transport and hiking. Begin by taking a local bus (L1, L4, LC, or BN1) towards Encamp. From Encamp, follow the GR11 trail, which is well-marked. The hike from Encamp to the refuge is approximately 13.3km and will take around 4-5 hours, with an elevation gain of about 1000m. Ensure you have appropriate hiking gear and check weather conditions before setting out.
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Public Transport
To reach the vicinity of Refugi del Riu dels Orris using public transport, take the L2 bus from Andorra la Vella towards Encamp. Alight at a stop in Encamp, such as the Plaza del Consell. From there, the remainder of the journey involves hiking. Bus fare within Andorra la Vella or Les Escaldes typically costs around €2-3. However, this only covers the initial bus ride to the trail's starting point in Encamp. The subsequent hike to the refuge is free but requires several hours of walking. No special transport tickets are needed beyond the standard bus fare.
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Taxi
For a quicker start to your hike, take a taxi from Les Escaldes to Engolasters. From there, hike towards Coll Jovell, following signs for Fontverd and Pla de l'Ingla. This route shortens the initial walking distance. A taxi from Les Escaldes to Engolasters will cost approximately €7-€10. From Engolasters, the hike to Refugi del Riu dels Orris is free but will still take around 3 hours.
