One of my favorite things about creation is how it displays God’s nature. Islands show His beauty, lakes show His peace. And if you want to see His grandness, mountains are the way to go.
Andorra is a small country located between France and Spain, nestled within the Pyrenees Mountains. It’s the 16th smallest country in the world and a great destination for a quiet trip.
Read on for the ideal day in Andorra la Vella in our second installment of Quiet Travel.
What is Quiet Travel?
Quiet Travel is about slimming down your itinerary to make time for God.
His goodness is always there, but the stress of travel makes it hard to soak it in.
When we release our expectations of “doing it all” and our fears that we only have one chance to travel, we give the pressure to God.
Then we can sit back, relax, and enjoy the trip for everything it is.
If you’re learning how to let God lead your travels, listen to Episode 2 of our podcast, where we reflect on the ways God surprises us as we trust in Him.
What does Quiet Travel Feel Like in Andorra?
While Andorra’s history is Christian, its setting was what taught me about the character of God.
In the Pyrenees Mountains, it’s silent and rugged, yet snug, even while the town is bustling. The mountains tower over everything—their presence in the background of every thought.
It couldn’t be a better metaphor for the Presence of God.
When I stepped off the bus, all I could do was take in the beauty.
On the top of the mountain, you can see how the clouds cover everything below. Looking out at it felt like staring into a great mystery… like there was a world was waiting just beyond everything I had known.
For the grandness of God, for the secrets and wonder that make your heart flutter, Andorra is the place to visit.
Getting There
Andorra doesn’t have trains or airports. To get there you have to either take the bus to the nearest station (located 7 miles outside of the Andorran border) or drive in from France or Spain.
I recommend you fly into Barcelona’s airport (BCN) or Toulouse (TLS) in Southern France. From there, rent a car. The 2 and a half hour drive to the border is a masterpiece.
From the South, you ride through the Spanish countryside, filled with small towns, crumbling towers and rolling hills. But as you get closer, gentle slopes give way to mountains shrouded in mist.
The Ideal Itinerary
Andorra is one of the richest countries in Europe. In it, you’ll find good food, great service, and duty-free shopping, while humbly embodying the meaning of lacking no good thing.
Start your day with breakfast and shopping. Keep it simple with coffee and a warm croissant or treat yourself to Andorra’s unique blend of Catalan and French cuisine. Then, head to Avinguda Carlemany for international goods and local boutiques.
Art and Architecture
In Andorra, the art is unforgettable. Metalworks blend historical and contemporary styles all around the city.
Many pieces come together in Sculpture Park—others you’ll find around town. Stroll through it and discover a new sense of beauty, then get pictures in front of the famous bridge Pont de París on Avinguda Consell d’Europa.
Editor’s Pick
Amour Abroad Tote
Carry a bag as quiet as your travel. Our signature tote was made for all of your essentials.
Time for Worship
Spend some time with the Lord in Esglesia de Sant Esteve. Built in the 11th and 12th centuries, this church is massive on the outside and simple on the inside, decorated with stained glass windows and a large chandelier.
There’s no better place in the city to experience the sober vibes of medieval Christianity. And with the mountains looming just beyond, you can’t help but remember that God is watching over you.
Take a moment to sit in His Presence before the last part of your day.
The World’s Longest Mountain Coaster
This part of the itinerary is my favorite.
Enjoy a drive to the peak of the mountain—it’s stunning. Aging homes snuggled in trees watch quietly as you ride by. Clouds float just below you over the valley floor.
Near the summit you’ll find pure excitement in the world’s longest mountain toboggan ride. At 3.3 miles, it’s the perfect way to end the day. Schedule your ride here!
Summary
Andorra la Vella is a wonderful place for a quiet trip. Whether for echoes of the past, eye opening art, or the feeling of standing in the midst of something greater than you, this city is amazing.
For the ideal day:
- Drive in from France or Spain
- Begin the day with food and shopping
- Enjoy the local art and architecture
- Visit the cathedral
- Head to the top of the mountain for toboggan rides
Thanks for Reading
What excites you about Quiet Travel in Andorra? Share it with us in the comments!
Leave a Reply