A journey through history, art and countryside in Umbria, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Italy.
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Snowshoeing in one of Europe's smallest countries
Andorra
Winter Activities
Mar
Average group size: 10-12
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
Trips comprise of day walks with plenty of ups and downs, some steep and rough ground will be encountered at times and walks averaging 7 miles with 650m of ascent / descent. Some holidays will cover longer distances on easier paths, others will be shorter walks but have more demanding ascents and terrain.
Usual daily walks - Distance: 7 miles; Ascent/Descent 650m; Terrain: generally decent paths and tracks with some steeper sections; Walking Time: Day walks.
The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s keys walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".
Meticulously curated, guided walking holiday itineraries that delve into the culture, wildlife, cuisine, and rich history of the world.
Overview
Andorra is a unique place. Entirely surrounded by France and Spain the midst of the High Pyrenees. Within Europe but not in the EU, Catalan speaking but apart from Catalonia, Andorra is a small place of immense contradictions. More significantly for our purposes its mountainous terrain offers some great snow cover and opportunities to get away from everything snowshoeing through the peaceful mountains.
We fly to Barcelona on the Catalan coast and drive up through steadily more mountainous terrain and into the high peaks of Andorra. We are based in Ordino, the main town of Ordino parish which borders France. The town sits under the impressive Casamanya mountain reaching up to 2740m. Our centrally located hotel is ideal for exploring the town and fortunately Andorra is a small place so we never have to travel far to enjoy our snowshoeing.
We might start with a gentle exploration of the Sorteny Natural Park. Look out for animal tracks in the snow: hares, foxes and pine martin tracks are commonly seen. Fortunately we have a local guide each day to explain the differences between the tracks to the uninitiated. We will head off towards the Salamandra lakes with views of the main valley leading up to France. The Incles valley offers great walking and an historic dimension as the French resistance guided refugees out of France down the valley during WWII.
Each day offers something a little different. We are generally walking at around 1800- 2200m so have an excellent chance of good snow covering, Obviously in these days of climate change nothing can be guaranteed but our chances are good. The highest point we hope to reach is at 2400m at Cirque du Pessons.
As with all winter activities snow cannot be guaranteed. However, the walks are equally spectacular on snowshoes or walking boots. It is important to note that like all winter activities there is an element of weather dependence. Please take this itinerary as a guide to what walks we might do. The day to day itinerary will be chosen to make the best of the conditions.
Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.
NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen
30600
Austria really knows how to do winter - trees heavy with snow, picturesque alpine villages, log fires and glühwein create a magical atmosphere.
Enjoy the peace and tranquillity of snow shoeing a quiet valley in the Spanish Pyrenees.
Itinerary & Travel
Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.
Meals
Accommodation
We fly to Barcelona and transfer by private coach about 3.5 hours to Ordino. On check in you will have some free time before dinner. Dinner tonight and all nights will be taken in the hotel.
Meals
Accommodation
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Natural Park of Sorteny is a glacial valley orientated east to west with very pronounced north and south faces. A place where many animals can be found and identified by their tracks in the snow. Various routes are possible depending on snow conditions but each will lead by a guarded mountain hut on the valley floor.
Meals
Accommodation
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
This walk enjoys incredible views over the main valley to France. We will pass Shepherds’ huts, walk through a high mountain pine forest before reaching alpine meadows at about 2300m.
Meals
Accommodation
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
One of Andorra’s best kept valleys with typical Bordas (local barns) and mountain meadows. One of the main valleys where the French Resistance passed during the 2nd World War guiding refugees. During the walk our local guide will hopefully be able to point tracks left in the snow from hares, foxes, squirrels, pine martins and many other animals.
Meals
Accommodation
Today you might care to take advantage of the sports club close by the hotel or jump on a bus into Andorra la Vella, the capital. It is hardly historic but worth a visit for the novelty and duty free shopping.
Meals
Accommodation
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Today we drive up to one of the high passes in Andorra, the Coll de Ordino (2000m) to start our walk. From here we take a path through mountain pine forest. With views of the two main Andorran valleys. A spectacular day.
Meals
Accommodation
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
The path wanders through a mountain pine forest to the first lake where we find a restaurant. It gradually climbs through granite boulders and high mountain scenery to the remaining six lakes. From the lakes, spectacular views of the peaks which surround us can be enjoyed.
Meals
After breakfast we take the transfer down from the mountains to Barcelona Airport for our flight home.
From (GBP)£1,549
Departure dates for your selected tour
8th Mar 2025 - 15th Mar 2025 (7 Nights)
Accommodation
Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.
Situated in the Andorran mountain village of Ordino, the Hotel Coma offers comfortable and welcoming accommodation. The spacious rooms are south-facing with garden or mountain views. Each private bathroom has a hydromassage bath and rooms have a HD TV with satellite channels. The hotel has its own restaurant which specialises in traditional Andorran and Mediterranean recipes using fresh local products and homemade sweets. There is also a café-bar which serves snacks and drinks. The hotel offers discounts at Ordino Sports Centre, located 550 yards away, which enjoys an Olympic-size swimming pool, fitness centre and Turkish baths. There is also a bus every 15 minutes to Andorra la Vella.
Trip Information
Trips comprise of day walks with plenty of ups and downs, some steep and rough ground will be encountered at times and walks averaging 7 miles with 650m of ascent / descent. Some holidays will cover longer distances on easier paths, others will be shorter walks but have more demanding ascents and terrain.
Usual daily walks - Distance: 7 miles; Ascent/Descent 650m; Terrain: generally decent paths and tracks with some steeper sections; Walking Time: Day walks.
The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s keys walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".
Local Transport Costs
In the holiday cost, we have included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.
Optional Excursions
At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.
Holiday Budgeting
As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.
Currency in Andorra
The currency accepted in Andorra is the euro.
Tipping
In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.
Tour Leaders
Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations. Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.
Leader's Evening Briefing
Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.
The transfers from Barcelona to Ordino are by road and the journey takes approximately three hours. Something you may wish to consider when thinking about making your own way to Andorra.
Once in Andorra transport to and from our walks will be quick and easy due to the small size of the country. Throughout our stay we will use a mixture of hired and public transport.
Booking Your Own Travel Arrangements
If you prefer to arrange your own flights from a non-UK or regional airport or travel to your holiday destination by rail or car, you may qualify for 'land only' reductions, and we can provide details upon request. Feel free to reach out to us for more information.
Before finalizing any independent travel arrangements, especially if you're doing so 12 weeks or more before your intended travel date, please check with us first to ensure your holiday has been cleared to operate. If you plan to join your holiday locally, kindly inform us at least 14 weeks in advance.
If you're joining and leaving your holiday overseas, we assume, unless you specify otherwise, that you will join and leave the holiday at your hotel.
Although airport/station transfers are not included for those making independent travel arrangements, you may have the option to join the group at the overseas airport/station, depending on your arrival time. If interested, contact us at least 5 weeks before departure for more details.
Please be aware that you must arrive within 30 minutes of the group flight/train arrival to be eligible for the group transfer. Additionally, we'll need your flight number, arrival time, and departure point or independent travel arrangements to ensure the group leader can meet up with you. If you have a mobile, please ensure we have the number, and it is turned on while you are traveling for effective communication.
Hotel Transfers
When you book a flight or rail inclusive holiday, transfers between the airport/station and hotel and back are included. On some holidays, where we offer various flight options, the transfer vehicle may wait for all flights to land before transferring to the hotel.
Luggage Allowance & Travel Documents
If you're booking a flight or rail inclusive holiday, rest assured that details of your travel arrangements and baggage allowance will be clearly outlined in your 'Final Travel Documents'. These will be sent to you approximately 10 days before your departure, ensuring you have all the necessary information for a smooth and well-prepared journey.
Personal Details Check
To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.
Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.
You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.
European Passport Advice
If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must meet the Schengen area rules.
Your passport must meet 2 requirements. It must be:
For some Schengen countries your passport may need to be less than 10 years old during your whole visit, and the 3 months at the end of your visit may need to be within 10 years of your passport’s issue date.
Check both the issue date and the expiry date in your passport. If you renewed your passport early, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. This could affect the requirement for your passport to be less than 10 years old.
Non British Passport holders should consult the host country’s embassy for applicable passport and visa entry requirements.
Breakfasts and dinners are taken in the hotel.
Breakfast consists of a substantial buffet with fresh orange juice, local artisan sausages, “paged” bread, natural fruits, pastries and brioxería, omelettes and eggs prepared in various manners.
Dinners will show case local seasonal food prepared fresh each day.
Footwear
Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good, moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are strongly recommended and may be essential for some walks.
General Kit List
Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.
If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:
This list is not exhaustive and every walker is different and may have their own preference.
It is very useful to have a day sack that has means of strapping snow shoes on when they are not being worn.
Travel Documents Checklist
Documents and Information to take with you:
Electricity in Andorra
Electricity in Andorra is supplied at 220 Volts. If you wish to use electrical equipment you will need a European two pin adaptor with round pins. More information can be found at www.powerplugadapter.uk.
Water To Go
Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.
Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.
As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWH17 during your order.
Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!
The Map Shop
If you cannot find the maps or books locally, we recommend:
The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England
Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com
If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.
Weather
Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:
Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.
Health Advice for Andorra
No compulsory immunisations are required for visits to Andorra.
You should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended in the UK.
Tetanus immunisation is recommended.
Further Travel Advice
For further advice please visit:
You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.
It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.
The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.
Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.
If you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.
If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you are unable to demonstrate that you are insured.
Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.
If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland, please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.
GHIC / EHIC Cards
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), and its replacement in 2021, the GHIC, does not provide health cover in Andorra.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.
When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!
Responsible Travel
We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.
The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust
Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.
The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust is passionate about making the outdoors more accessible for more people from all communities. We grant funds to many organisations and have recently partnered with Mind Over Mountains, Adaptive Grand Slam, and other groups to create an enduring impact on people’s lives and to support them to enjoy the outdoors. In addition, the Trust makes many small grants to local organisations such as Ramblers Groups, Walkers are Welcome, My kind of Books and recently provided a small grant, via his scouting group, to enable a young man whose family had fallen on hard times to complete his DofE Gold award.
Patron of the Trust is the renowned explorer, Mark Wood. Over 20 years Mark has undertaken expeditions to some of the most remote parts of our planet. Our shared values make for an exciting partnership, and we believe that by standing shoulder to shoulder we can encourage people from all communities to enjoy being active outdoors in whatever way suits them best.
For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.
Heart and Sole
We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.
Mobile Phones
Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilize this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.
Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last-minute updates concerning your travel plans.
In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or try to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimize the use of mobile devices. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.
Reviews
Useful Information
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Currency
Language
Time Difference
Flight duration
Visas and Passports
January
Avg. Rain: 93mm
February
Avg. Rain: 84mm
March
Avg. Rain: 86mm
April
Avg. Rain: 97mm
May
Avg. Rain: 121mm
June
Avg. Rain: 101mm
July
Avg. Rain: 69mm
August
Avg. Rain: 95mm
September
Avg. Rain: 90mm
October
Avg. Rain: 106mm
November
Avg. Rain: 114mm
December
Avg. Rain: 96mm
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