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Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley: Andorra's UNESCO Treasure

Discover Andorra's only UNESCO World Heritage Site: a pristine valley with hiking trails, cultural history, and stunning Pyrenean scenery.

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The Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a pristine glimpse into traditional Andorran mountain life. Accessible only on foot, this glacial valley showcases a harmonious blend of nature and human activity, with ancient shepherd huts and stunning Pyrenean landscapes.

A brief summary to Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley

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.
  • From May to December, accessing certain sectors by vehicle requires a fee of €25 per vehicle per day.
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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, though note it's still an 8km walk from there. 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.

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Discover more about Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley

Nestled in the southeastern part of Andorra, the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley is a remarkable glacial valley and a UNESCO World Heritage site, encompassing 4,247 hectares, nearly 9% of Andorra's total area. Recognized as the "spiritual heart" of Andorra, this isolated valley is a haven for rare and endangered wildlife. The valley's landscape features high pastures, craggy cliffs, and steep wooded valleys, showcasing how humans have sustainably harvested mountain resources for over 700 years. The valley is accessible only by foot, preserving its untouched beauty and offering a unique glimpse into traditional Andorran life. Stone-paved paths, once used by shepherds and smugglers, connect the valley to France and Spain. Visitors can explore ancient shepherd cabins, restored in the traditional style, and remnants of old ironworking forges, testaments to the valley's rich history. The valley also exemplifies a communal land-ownership system dating back to the 13th century. Hiking is a popular activity, with trails catering to various skill levels. The Coronallacs Trail, a circular hiking route of approximately 90 km, connects the valley's four refuges. Other trails lead to stunning viewpoints like Pic de Coma Pedrosa, Andorra's highest peak, and tranquil lakes such as Estany de les Truites. The valley is divided amongst the parishes of Andorra la Vella, Escaldes-Engordany, Encamp, and Sant Julià de Lòria.

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