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Tristaina Sundial Balcony: A High-Altitude Timepiece

Experience breathtaking views and a unique solar monument at the Tristaina Sundial Balcony in the Andorran Pyrenees.

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The Tristaina Sundial Balcony, near Ordino Arcalís in Andorra, offers stunning panoramic views of the Pyrenees and a unique 25-meter sundial. Accessible via cable car and a short hike, it's a must-see for nature lovers and those seeking breathtaking vistas.

A brief summary to Tristaina Sundial Balcony

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes, especially if you plan to hike to the Tristaina Lakes, as the terrain can be uneven.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.
  • Bring layers of clothing to adapt to changing temperatures, especially if visiting during the shoulder seasons.
  • Take advantage of the free parking available at the Ordino Arcalís base, but arrive early to secure a spot closer to the gondola.
  • Don't miss the last ride down on the chairlift (4:15 PM) and gondola (5:15 PM) to avoid a long hike back to El Serrat.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Andorra la Vella, take a bus towards Ordino. From Ordino, transfer to a local bus heading towards El Serrat. From El Serrat, during the summer months when the road to Coma de Arcalís is closed (typically from late June to mid-September), you'll need to take the Tristaina cable car from the base of Ordino Arcalís. A round trip ticket for the cable car and Creussans chairlift costs approximately €22. From the top of the Creussans chairlift, it's a 15-minute walk to the Sundial Balcony. The parish bus in Ordino costs €0.20 per trip. During the winter, a free bus provides access to Ordino Arcalís.

  • Driving

    From Andorra la Vella, follow the CG-3 road towards Ordino and then El Serrat. Continue towards the Ordino Arcalís ski resort. Free parking is available at the base of the resort with a capacity for 1,500 vehicles. From late June to mid-September, the road to Coma de Arcalís is closed, and you'll need to park at the base and take the Tristaina cable car (€22 round trip for cable car and chairlift). VIP parking with electric chargers is available for €10 per day. From the top of the Creussans chairlift, it's a 15-minute walk to the Sundial Balcony.

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Discover more about Tristaina Sundial Balcony

Perched high in the Andorran Pyrenees, the Tristaina Sundial Balcony is a scenic marvel that combines natural beauty with human artistry. Located near the Ordino Arcalís ski resort, this viewpoint offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The highlight is the massive sundial, a 25-meter diameter structure with a 27-meter mast, designed to keep perfect time at an angle of 42.55 degrees. The sundial was erected in 2022 on a peak known as Solar Mountain, a location chosen for its optimal sun exposure. The site is easily accessible via the Tristaina cable car from the Ordino Arcalís base, followed by a scenic ride on the Creussans chairlift. From the top of the chairlift, it's a short, uphill walk to the sundial itself. The area around the sundial provides ample space to soak in the views, with vistas stretching across Andorra and into France on a clear day. While the sundial is a relatively new addition, the area has long been a popular destination for hikers. The nearby Tristaina Lakes, a series of three stunning glacial lakes, are a major draw. A moderately challenging 4.4-kilometer hike leads to the lakes, offering views of diverse flora and fauna. The lakes themselves—Estany Primer, Estany del Mig, and Estany de Més Amunt—are located at an altitude of 2,300 meters, with the highest lake permitting bathing during the summer months. Whether you're interested in the unique sundial, the stunning mountain scenery, or the invigorating hike to the Tristaina Lakes, the Tristaina Sundial Balcony offers an unforgettable Andorran experience.

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