Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley: Andorra's UNESCO Gem
Discover Andorra's untouched 'spiritual heart': A UNESCO-listed valley where culture & nature intertwine through hiking trails & timeless traditions.
The Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2004, offers a captivating glimpse into Andorra's natural beauty and cultural heritage. This glacial valley, untouched by roads, showcases traditional Pyrenean life with its stone huts, pastures, and winding trails.
A brief summary to Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley
- c/Prat de la creu 74-76 baixos, Andorra la Vella, AD500, AD
- +376823000
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking boots as the trails can be rocky and steep.
- Bring plenty of water, especially during the summer months.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Consider visiting the Portal de la Vall visitor center in Andorra la Vella for information and exhibits about the valley.
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From Andorra la Vella, take bus lines L2, L3, L4, or BN2 towards the various trailheads. Disembark at a stop closest to your desired entry point, such as Prada de Moles. Check the latest bus schedules and routes on the Andorra public transport website. Bus fares are typically around €2-€3 per ride. From Encamp, you can take the Funicamp funicular, then walk approximately 6 km through the Vall dels Cortals to reach the Ensagents path, which leads into the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley. The Funicamp costs around €10-€15.
-
Walking
From Andorra la Vella, several hiking trails lead to the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley. A popular route starts from the end of the Comella road, about 4 km from Andorra la Vella. Follow the path to Prat Primer, then continue to the Refugi de Prat Primer before entering the valley. Another option is to walk from the Circuit de les Fonts car park on the Engolasters road (CS-200). Be prepared for a 1.5 to 2-hour hike with some steep sections. Ensure you have appropriate footwear, water, and snacks.
-
Taxi
From Andorra la Vella, a taxi to one of the valley entrances is possible, but walking or public transport is generally preferred due to the limited road access into the valley itself. A taxi ride from Andorra la Vella to the Comella picnic area or the Engolasters area will cost approximately €10-€15. Remember that taxis can only take you to the periphery of the valley, and the final approach will always be on foot.
Discover more about Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Estany de la Nou
2.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Estany de la Nou in Andorra: a pristine alpine lake offering hiking, photography, and a tranquil escape in the Pyrenees.
riu de Perafita
3.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Riu de Perafita in Andorra's Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site perfect for nature lovers.
Via Ferrada del Roc d'Esquers (Punt d'Accés-Cartell)
4.8 km
Experience the thrill of climbing in Andorra at Via Ferrada del Roc d'Esquers, a unique blend of hiking and climbing with stunning panoramic views.
Creu de la Serra
5.0 km
Discover breathtaking Andorran vistas at Creu de la Serra, a scenic spot in Sant Julià de Lòria perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Coll dels Pessons
5.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Coll dels Pessons in Andorra: stunning lakes, scenic hiking trails, and panoramic Pyrenean views await!
Placeta del Madriu
5.6 km
Discover Placeta del Madriu in Les Escaldes, Andorra: a charming square offering cultural richness and stunning Pyrenean views.
Plaça dels Safarejos
5.6 km
Discover Plaça dels Safarejos in Les Escaldes: A charming Andorran square blending history, culture, and stunning Pyrenean views.
Plaça santa anna
5.7 km
Discover the historic Plaça Santa Anna in Les Escaldes, Andorra: a cultural landmark and gateway to the region's attractions.
Hotel Panorama
5.8 km
Experience Andorra from Hotel Panorama: Comfort, convenience, and easy access to shopping, skiing, and the Caldea spa.
Plaça de l'Església
5.8 km
Discover the vibrant heart of Les Escaldes at Plaça de l'Església, a charming square filled with history and culture in Andorra.
La lluna de xocolata
5.8 km
Indulge in delightful chocolate creations and family fun at this charming espresso bar and children's cafe in Les Escaldes, Andorra.
ATELIER BURGUES
5.8 km
Experience a fusion of Spanish & Argentinian cuisine in a cozy setting. Meat, fish, & risotto specialties await in Escaldes-Engordany.
ENCAMP
5.8 km
Experience the tranquility of Encamp, Andorra, in this charming country house. Your gateway to Pyrenean adventures and relaxation awaits!
Peixateria La Llotja
5.8 km
Savor fresh seafood in the heart of Andorra at Peixateria La Llotja, a culinary treasure in Escaldes-Engordany.
Plaça de l'Esbart Santa Anna
5.9 km
Discover the vibrant heart of Les Escaldes at this charming square, filled with culture, beauty, and local experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
Refugi de Perafita
2.1 km
Escape to the Andorran Pyrenees at Refugi de Perafita: Your mountain haven for hiking, tranquility, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Vall del Madriu | Escaldes-Engordany
2.1 km
Explore Vall del Madriu, Andorra's UNESCO-protected glacial valley, offering breathtaking hikes, rich cultural heritage, and pristine natural beauty.
Refugi del Riu dels Orris
3.0 km
Discover a serene mountain escape at Refugi del Riu dels Orris, a historic Andorran refuge in the heart of the Pyrenees.
Refugi de Claror
3.5 km
Escape to Refugi de Claror, a serene Andorran mountain cabin offering breathtaking views and access to incredible hiking trails.
Font de La Closa
4.3 km
Escape to Font de La Closa in Les Escaldes: Discover tranquil hiking trails, stunning views, and serene picnic spots in this Andorran state park.
Tamarro Caldes | Andorra
4.5 km
Embark on a magical hike to find the Tamarro Caldes, a hidden gem in Andorra's scenic forests, perfect for families and nature lovers.
Tunel circuit de Les Fonts
4.5 km
Discover scenic trails, natural springs, and panoramic views at this accessible hiking circuit in Engolasters, Andorra.
Mirador de Les Fonts | Les Escaldes
4.5 km
Discover breathtaking panoramic views of Andorra's stunning mountainous landscape from this easily accessible scenic observation deck in Les Escaldes.
Refugi de l'Illa
4.5 km
Discover tranquility at Refugi de l'Illa, a picturesque mountain cabin nestled in the stunning Vall del Madriu-Perafita-Claror in Andorra.
Sant Miquel Engolasters
4.7 km
Explore Sant Miquel Engolasters, a historic Catholic church nestled in Andorra's stunning landscape, offering breathtaking views and rich cultural experiences.
Camí hidroèlectric d'Engolasters
4.8 km
Discover Andorra's hydroelectric heritage on a scenic trail around Engolasters Lake, where history and nature intertwine.
Vall del Madriu, Claror i Perafita
4.9 km
Explore Andorra's Vall del Madriu-Perafita-Claror, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning hiking trails and rich cultural history.
Ctra. d'Engolasters
4.9 km
Discover breathtaking Andorran scenery on Ctra. d'Engolasters: panoramic views, hiking trails, and the serene Lake Engolasters await!
Refugi d'Ensagents
4.9 km
A rustic, high-altitude mountain refuge in Encamp, Andorra, offering shelter and stunning Pyrenean views for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Lake Engolasters
4.9 km
Discover Lake Engolasters: A stunning Andorran lake perfect for hiking, nature, and breathtaking Pyrenean views.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Llac i Cel | Engolasters
5.0 km
Experience authentic Andorran cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Restaurant Llac i Cel in Engolasters.
Les Pardines Restaurant
5.3 km
Experience authentic Andorran cuisine at Les Pardines Restaurant, where local flavors meet stunning views in Encamp.
La Papaia
5.8 km
Experience authentic Andorran cuisine at La Papaia in Encamp – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Restaurant La Cuina d'en Marvic
5.8 km
Discover the heart of Andorran cuisine at La Cuina d'en Marvic in Escaldes-Engordany - where tradition meets flavor.
Portucale restaurant Bar
5.9 km
Discover Portucale Restaurant Bar in Encamp: A culinary treasure offering delicious local and Portuguese dishes amidst stunning mountain views.
Restaurant Odetti Bistro Escaldes
5.9 km
Experience authentic Andorran cuisine at Odetti Bistro in Les Escaldes – where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Andorra
5.9 km
Discover Andorra's rich culinary traditions amid breathtaking mountain scenery; an unforgettable experience awaits every traveler.
PAELLAS Y PAELLOS Andorra
5.9 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors at Paellas y Paellos in Escaldes-Engordany – a must-visit culinary destination.
Restaurant Benito
5.9 km
Experience authentic Andorran cuisine at Restaurant Benito in Encamp - a culinary gem offering delicious meals in a warm atmosphere.
TAVERNA PICCOLA ITALIA
5.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Taverna Piccola Italia in Escaldes-Engordany - where every meal feels like a trip to Italy.
RESTAURANT EL RACÓ DEL GARRÍ
5.9 km
Experience traditional Andorran cuisine at El Racó del Garrí in Encamp - where every dish embodies local flavors.
Excalibur
5.9 km
Discover Excalibur in Escaldes-Engordany – where succulent meats meet delightful flavors in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
La Cirera
5.9 km
Discover La Cirera in Encamp for an authentic Andorran dining experience with exquisite seafood dishes and local charm.
Taverna ta'picas
5.9 km
Experience authentic Andorran cuisine at Taverna ta'picas in Encamp – where every meal tells a story!
Marisqueria GRESHA ENCAMP
5.9 km
Discover the flavors of the Mediterranean at Marisqueria GRESHA in Encamp – where fresh seafood meets warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Andorra Turisme
5.7 km
Explore the majestic landscapes and rich heritage of Andorra with Andorra Turisme, your guide to unforgettable adventures in the Pyrenees.
Limited Andorra
5.8 km
Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Limited Andorra, featuring stylish clothing and unique hobby items in the heart of Les Escaldes.
NEW PORT
5.8 km
Explore New Port in Les Escaldes: A premier shopping destination with luxury goods and local treasures in the heart of Andorra.
Pic Negre 14 - Encamp
5.9 km
Experience winter sports excitement at Pic Negre 14 - your go-to ski shop and bicycle rental service in Encamp, Andorra.
BASAR VALIRA JOGUINES
5.9 km
Discover a world of toys and imagination at BASAR VALIRA JOGUINES, Andorra's favorite toy store for families and visitors.
BASAR VALIRA HOBBIES
5.9 km
Discover a world of hobbies and collectibles at Basar Valira Hobbies in Les Escaldes, Andorra's unique destination for enthusiasts.
QUIOSC TONI
5.9 km
Explore the unique offerings of QUIOSC TONI in Les Escaldes, where local craftsmanship and culture come together in a delightful shopping experience.
Natura
5.9 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish clothing at Natura, a charming shop in Les Escaldes offering an unforgettable shopping experience.
PERFUMERIA PERRUQUERIA MARHEN
5.9 km
Explore the exquisite fragrances at Perfumeria Perruqueria Marhen in Escaldes-Engordany, a haven for scent enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Viladomat Signature
5.9 km
Explore Viladomat Signature, your ultimate destination for top-notch sporting goods in Les Escaldes, Andorra.
Escaldes-Engordany: Design With A Turn-key | DISSENY I INTERIORS
5.9 km
Explore Escaldes-Engordany: A Design Haven in Andorra for Home Improvement Enthusiasts.
Luz del universo Encamp
5.9 km
Discover Luz del universo Encamp, where Andorran fashion meets style in a cozy shopping haven, perfect for every traveler.
JACK & JONES
5.9 km
Discover contemporary men's fashion at JACK & JONES in Les Escaldes, featuring stylish apparel from casual to formal collections.
Av. Carlemany
5.9 km
Explore Av. Carlemany in Les Escaldes, a vibrant shopping mall offering a delightful mix of local and international brands, dining, and family-friendly activities.
Boutique Ivone
6.0 km
Discover the epitome of luxury shopping at Boutique Ivone in Escaldes-Engordany, featuring curated fashion and accessories in a chic setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Restaurant SEVILLA
5.8 km
Discover the vibrant culinary scene at Bar Restaurant SEVILLA in Les Escaldes, where local flavors and a lively atmosphere await you.
Bar Orelles
5.8 km
Experience authentic Andorran hospitality and local flavors at Bar Orelles in Escaldes-Engordany, where every sip tells a story.
CLIXE BAR
5.8 km
Experience the best of wine culture at CLIXE BAR in Escaldes-Engordany, where every glass tells a story and every visit is memorable.
BAR SALAMANCA
5.8 km
Discover Bar Salamanca: A lively bar in Les Escaldes, perfect for cocktails, local culture, and vibrant nightlife experiences.
BAR ORLANDO
5.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Bar Orlando in Encamp, where affordable drinks meet friendly service in a cozy setting.
Pub La Gruta
5.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Pub La Gruta, a charming pub in Les Escaldes, Andorra, offering a lively atmosphere and delicious drinks.
BAR LA PARADA
5.9 km
Discover the heart of Encamp at Bar La Parada, where local flavors and a warm atmosphere create a memorable experience for all visitors.
SIGNUM
5.9 km
Discover the authentic taste of Argentina at SIGNUM, where barbecue delights and local brews create an unforgettable dining experience in Encamp.
Marquet Gourmeterie - traditional restaurant and wine bar in Andorra
5.9 km
Discover the rich culinary heritage of Andorra at Marquet Gourmeterie, featuring traditional dishes and a superb selection of wines.
Bar Engordany
6.0 km
Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Bar Engordany in Escaldes-Engordany, the perfect spot for relaxation and refreshments.
LA GORMANDERIA II
6.0 km
La Gormanderia II: A vibrant bar in Escaldes-Engordany perfect for enjoying local drinks and a lively atmosphere.
BAR AQUÍ T´ESPERO
6.0 km
Discover the lively BAR AQUÍ T´ESPERO in Les Escaldes, where refreshing drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await every traveler.
BAR VALIPAS
6.0 km
Discover the warmth and charm of Bar Valipas in Encamp, a perfect retreat for tourists seeking relaxation and local flavors.
Bar Cuco
6.0 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Bar Cuco in Les Escaldes, where locals and tourists gather for drinks, music, and unforgettable experiences.
Llepafils wines and food
6.0 km
Discover a delightful blend of local wines and Andorran cuisine at Llepafils Wines and Food, your perfect evening retreat in Escaldes-Engordany.