Hiking and wellness in the heart of Andorra's valleys
In summary
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Sports
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Duration7 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationPyrenees / Andorra
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AgeFrom 16 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions140.66 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
In a few words
In the heart of the Pyrenees , the principality of Andorra reveals an ideal playground for mountain hiking enthusiasts. Between soaring peaks , unspoiled valleys and breathtaking panoramas, this small territory combines wild nature and a strong Catalan cultural heritage , where traditions and authenticity shape the identity of the place.
From our base camp nestled in a peaceful valley , we set off each day to explore the most beautiful trails, traveling light to fully appreciate the scenery and the fresh mountain air. The routes alternate between panoramic ridges, high-altitude lakes, and alpine pastures, offering total immersion in a pristine environment.
After exertion, it's time to relax and unwind . With the spa option, we'll enjoy one of the largest thermal spa complexes in Europe , as well as the hotel's spa , for moments of pure relaxation. Hot baths, aquatic areas, and moments of tranquility complete the experience.
This stay offers a harmonious balance between active exploration , rejuvenation and comfort, to discover Andorra differently, in a soothing and revitalizing atmosphere.
The highlights
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A discovery of this Pyrenean jewel and its nature reserves
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A gradual journey of discovery through this magnificent mountain area
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Accommodation in a superb, very comfortable 4-star hotel with quality dining
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
For walkers already accustomed to hiking with positive elevation gains of 450 to 650 meters.
Stages of 4.5 to 5.5 hours of walking on average, on easy mountain terrain but without any
No particular technique, nor any difficulty on the circuit.
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 5h
- Average daily elevation gain: 564 m
- Exposed Passages: Yes
Management
French
The stay will be supervised by a qualified mountain guide who is a specialist in the region.
An enthusiastic professional, he will be able to share his knowledge and passion for the natural environment with you, all while ensuring your safety. His dedication to his work compels him to adapt to weather conditions, terrain constraints, and other unforeseen circumstances, managing the pace and physical condition of each participant, all while remaining readily available.
Program
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First steps in Andorra
- Transportation Minibus - 01h30 - 90km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Positive elevation gain 450 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After meeting the group at Ax-les-Thermes train station around 9:00 AM, we'll hit the road and make our first stop for the first hike of the trip, halfway between Ax-les-Thermes and the hotel. A lovely hike awaits us in the Cirque de Pessons.
Day 1 -
In the Rialb Valley
- Transportation Minibus - 00h15 - 20km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h30
- Positive elevation gain 650 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
For this second day of hiking, we will head into the beautiful Rabassa Valley, a stronghold of local pastoralism, as evidenced by the numerous stone huts we will pass. At the highest point of the day, we will reach an altitude of 2,500 meters.
If you have chosen the spa option, you will enjoy a fitness session at the hotel.
Day 2 -
Around the lakes of Siscaro
- Transportation Minibus - 20h - 20km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h30
- Positive elevation gain 550 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Today we will head towards the Siscaro lakes, at the end of the Vall d'Inclès. A path along small stone walls will lead us to a small refuge; we will enjoy this lovely viewpoint while eating our picnic before heading back down.
Day 3 -
Sorteny Natural Park
- Transportation Minibus - 20h - 20km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h30
- Positive elevation gain 580 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
It is in the Sorteny Natural Park that we will have the chance to hike for this fourth day. We will discover the beautiful valley of the same name and climb towards Lake Estanyo, at nearly 2900 meters altitude.
If you have chosen the spa option, you will enjoy a fitness session at the Caldea center at the end of the day.
Day 4 -
The Ransol Valley
- Transportation Minibus - 20h - 20km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h30
- Positive elevation gain 650 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
A day in the Ransol Valley, at the foot of the Serrera Peak, one of the highest summits in the country. We'll hike among streams, glacial lakes, and old iron mines. A superb hike in an exceptional setting.
Day 5 -
The lakes of Tristaina
- Transportation Minibus - 20h - 20km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h30
- Positive elevation gain 500 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
A day of circular hiking around the colorful lakes of the Tristaina cirque. In a high mountain setting, we will fully enjoy this last day of hiking, surrounded by an emblematic animal of the Pyrenees: the marmot.
If you have chosen the spa option, you will enjoy a fitness session at the Caldea center.
Day 6 -
End of stay
- Transportation Minibus - 01h30 - 90km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
After breakfast, we will return to Ax-les-Thermes train station by 11am.
Day 7
Note
Regardless of their wishes, your guide may need to slightly modify the indicated itineraries depending on weather conditions, the fitness level of the participants, or other unforeseen circumstances. The durations of our hikes are approximate and may vary depending on several factors during our trip (participants' fitness level, weather, trail conditions, etc.). Transfer times may also fluctuate depending on weather conditions and road conditions.
Accommodation
Access
The meeting point is at 9:00 am at the SNCF train station in Ax les Thermes. Parking is available at the station (free).
Go to the starting point
The meeting point is at 9:00 am at the SNCF train station in Ax les Thermes. Parking is available at the station (free).
Access by train: From Paris / Toulouse Matabiau / Ax-les-Thermes train station, more information on
www.sncf-connect.com/
Access by car: From Toulouse, take the A66 towards Foix/Andorra then the N20, Ax-les-Thermes train station
Avenue Delcassé 09110.
Carpooling: As part of an environmental protection effort, consider carpooling with websites
such as www.blablacar.fr or www.roulezmalin.com
Price details
The price includes
- The trip will be supervised by a qualified mountain guide who is a specialist in the region.
- Accommodation in a 4-star hotel and in a shared room
- Full board from lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 7
- Round-trip transfers from Ax-les-Thermes train station with our 8-person minibus
- The tourist tax
The price does not include
- Transportation to get you to the meeting point
- Drinks and personal expenses
- The Balneo and Spa option
- Anything not listed under "Price includes"
Options
- Spa/Fitness Option : CHF178.39 / person
- Single room : CHF182.96 / person
- Additional night with half-board the night before the stay (twin/double) : CHF68.61 / person
- Additional night with half-board the night before the stay (single room) : CHF86.91 / person
- Additional night with half-board at the end of the stay (twin/double) : CHF68.61 / person
- Additional night with half-board at the end of the stay (single room) : CHF86.91 / person
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
For the hotel
• A travel bag or suitcase for your belongings for the 6 days (no overly bulky luggage)
• Your spare clothes
• A toiletry kit
• A pair of light, slipper-type shoes for the evening
• A swimsuit (optional)
• For prescription glasses, remember to bring a spare pair.
For hiking
• A 30/40 liter backpack with a waist belt
• A protective cover for the backpack (often integrated into it)
• A pair of waterproof shoes with good ankle support (No boots or après-ski boots)
• A pair of gaiters (if not integrated into the trousers)
• A waterproof pouch for your documents, phone, etc…
• A plastic pocket to protect your belongings inside the backpack
• Sun protection (cream and lip balm)
• Category 3 or 4 sunglasses
• Ski mask
• A container with an airtight lid (like Tupperware) for the picnic
• Cutlery, knife and cup
• A water bottle
• Small floor mat (for sitting during your lunch break)
• Toilet paper
• Lighter
Clothing to bring
The 3-layer technique helps to keep you warm and dry.
- Breathable layer
- Insulating layer
- Protective layer
To apply this method, you will need
• Thermal and breathable long-sleeved T-shirts (no cotton)
• Lightweight warm jacket (down jacket or micro-puff type)
• Polartec-type fleece sweatshirt
• Waterproof, breathable, and windproof jacket with a hood. (Gore-Tex remains the standard material)
• Warm, breathable and water-repellent softshell hiking trousers with, if possible, integrated snow gaiters (ski trousers are not recommended)
• Waterproof, lightweight and compressible over-trousers (Gore-Tex type)
• Pairs of warm, knee-high socks (Merino wool)
• Beanie
• Warm, waterproof gloves, silk liner gloves (2 pairs if possible)
