OFFPLAN NEWS

(27.06.2007 )
Andorra property Andorra of the Pyrenees: Tourist Attractions

Existing as an anomaly in Europe, the once isolated little nation of Andorra is becoming a popular tourist destination thanks to its excellent holiday villas in Andorra. Tucked high in the Pyrenees between France and Spain, tiny Andorra has been an independent country since 1278, jointly ruled by the French Head of State and a Spanish bishop until it made those titles mere formalities during the 20th century. Most Americans do not even know that Andorra exists unless they’re avid skiers or geography buffs, but Andorra’s 60,000 citizens welcome more and more tourists to its attractions each year. After all, over three-quarters of the country’s gross domestic product comes from the tourism industry.

Like Monaco, Andorra attracts some rich residents who seek to avoid the income taxes levied by most other countries. But these folks will find that Andorra is more “hidden” and less accessible than its Riviera counterpart. In fact, Andorra even lacks an airport. The only way to reach the little nation-state is to wind through Pyrenees on roads from France or Spain. Bus service from Toulouse or Barcelona is usually the best way for tourists to see Andorra’s attractions.

So what are the attractions? Because Andorra is comprised of towns and villages sprinkled among mountains and valleys in the Pyrenees, the most popular tourist spots are ski resorts, spas, and the rugged landscape itself, but there are also old churches and other architecture of interest. Visiting Andorra is much like visiting northern Spain or Southern France, and tourist facilities are well-developed. Many people speak English, French, or Spanish – even though Catalan is the official language.

Thermal Spas in Andorra

Caldea. Calling itself the “largest mountain thermoludic center in Europe,” this strange-looking spired spa stands in sharp architectural contrast with the otherwise quaint Andorran setting. Renowned for its thermal origins, which many believe to have therapeutic, healing qualities, Caldea’s Escales Engordany waters spring at temperatures as high as 68 degrees Celsius (154 degrees Fahrenheit!), and the spa modifies this sulfur-heavy water to fit its various treatments, including its exotic grapefruit water bath. Any sort of facial mud mask, massage, or water therapy you can imagine is offered here, but Caldea is more than just a simple spa. It’s a relaxation center and resort, with multiple restaurants, bars, and shops. Like an oasis in the Pyrenees, Caldea welcomes weary travelers to its pools and saunas for surprisingly reasonable prices. Just 78 Euros ($92) will buy you a three-day pass to Caldea, but even cheaper passes are also available for three and five hour stints. Though it can be quite busy, especially during the summer months and on weekends, Caldea is a must-see attraction in Andorra.

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