Andorra Travel Forum

I will be staying in Barcelonain Mid- March and have a day to spare.
I would like to see Andorra (no sking or shopping)- I like nature, snowy mountain views, panoramic views etc.
Is it possible in 1 day by hiring a car?
Where can I find internet resources to plan my trip?
Are there any organized tours by bus from Barcelona to Andora?

I think there are tours (or there were years ago) but mostly aimed just to veni-vidi-visa crazy shopping. Mostly elder people who don't want/can't drive there (amazing experience with no doubt :o)

Is it possible in 1 day by hiring a car? Yes if you depart VERY early (let's say 5-6 AM and return very late). Otherwise, you will see only the ugly main cities, as the nice views are pretty far apart (sadly, anywhere that's easy to reach has been overbuilt). If you can spare a night there, I would say to avoid the main cities and look for something near La Massana (if budget is not an issue there is a gorgeous Ritz small hotel in Sispony, and a few more moderate ones: I used to stay at La Burna hotel: http://www.andorramania.com/hotellaburna/index.htm)

Where can I find internet resources to plan my trip? Have you tried www.andorra.ad?

However, as you are not interested on shopping but on beautiful mountain landscapes, why to focus in Andorra? (unless you want one of these funny touristy stamps on your passport). There are wonderful mountains easier to reach from Barcelona, less spoilt. Just a couple of examples:

- Montseny Natural Park: www.turisme-montseny.com
You can go there by Renfe trains and Buses. If you go by car, there are recommended itineraries at the website.

- Vall de Nuria: www.valldenuria.com
Very easy to reach by train to Ribes de Fresser and there take the rack-train. Worth it if just for using this funky train with wonderful views!

Wherever you go, have fun!!

I must agree with Belsaita that it is nearly wasted time to go to Andorra just for a day from Barcelona - if not for shopping - as it is rather far away. Still I think Andorra is a great place for hiking. I have been there several times and love the nature. But to really enjoy it you would need to spend one or two nights there. Perhaps you should consider Belsaita's alternative mountain tips. Have fun!

I've been up to Andorra a few time myself. Isa is 100% correct. Honestly do not go if you are not going to spend at least one night.

www.andorra.ad does have a comprehensive list of public transit to get there. But having your own car to explore the more remote and less developed areas at your leisure is highly recommended.