When researching, what there is to do in Andorra, if you aren’t into skiing or shopping most of the opinions are quite negative. Yes first impressions of the capital Andorra La Vella, would suggest its a ski resort for very rich people. It is nestled in a beautiful valley, it is different from where I have been and I had a day to investigate.
The river through town was flowing with quite a bit of force due to the snow melting in early spring, but the peaks of the highest mountains still seem to have snow on them. However it seemed to be the place to walk your dog or go for a stroll along the river. The town itself seemed busy enough without being crowded. Lots of very expensive brand name stores and quite a few outdoor adventure stores. Most of Andorra La Vella is pretty new by european standards, but I did ascend up into whats left of the old town of Androrra, a small collection of older buildings.
As i wandered around i did wonder a few things, like has Andorra ever won a winter olympics medal. The answer is no they haven’t, which is surprising as the country is mostly a ski resort. The bus trip to Toulouse the next day took me up through the higher parts of Andorra and through the Pyrenees. The scenery was spectacular and I’m sure it is great for those who ski. But overall i left with the same impression most people have of the country. Nice place to visit, but probably not one I’ll come back to.
