Via Ferratas in Andorra

Whether we go through it in winter or summer, we can enjoy all nature in its purest state. And, as I know you love feeling that nature on your skin, here is one of my most daring recommendations, the via ferrata you can find in Andorra. 

What Exactly is a Via Ferrata?

They are excursions whose route is the same mountain, but not by roads or walkable paths, but by the mountain’s walls. This may sound a bit reckless at first sight, but the truth is that they are very safe routes and, above all, hilarious.

The via ferrata in Andorra has become, in recent years, one of the most demanded activities. They are ideal to do with friends or family, and you don’t have to be an experienced climber since they are relatively simple. Also, there are routes of different levels and altitudes, so there is no excuse for staying on land. 

The only “inconvenient” that a via ferrata can have is that this type of excursions is not suitable for people who suffer from vertigo. Although they offer amazing landscapes from a bird’s eye point of view, it is also true that the height at which we are located is considerable. Anyway, if you have some vertigo, but you are very eager to know the mountain in all its splendor, I recommend you to make at least one route for beginners.

All these routes, regardless of the level, have “paths” of stone or wood, railings or safety ropes and, besides, you will always do it with harnesses. Therefore, the only thing you should worry about will be to enjoy it to the fullest.

The Via Ferrata of Andorra

The Andorran mountains have a total of 16 via ferrata of all kinds and levels. You can choose one of 150 meters (if you are a beginner) or one of 400 meters (if you already have a more expert level). 

I am going to show you some of these routes in detail so that, knowing all the information, you can choose the best one for you.

Routes in Canillo

Canillo is one of the areas with the most via ferrata in Andorra thanks to its large number of mountain formations. It is a perfect environment to enjoy a pleasant day surrounded by nature and living a thousand adventures. I will tell you about some of the most outstanding routes:

1- Mora Channel 1 and 2

The level of difficulty is low, so it is a good choice if you are looking to start in this type of activity. It is also ideal to do with children, who will have a great time feeling like explorers. It can be done in 1 hour quietly, so you can enjoy the landscape without hurrying up.

2- Roc del Quer

Also in Canillo, a short distance from the previous one, but somewhat more complicated. I recommend this route for people who have already done a via ferrata before since the height and length are greater and it takes almost 2 hours to finish it. The Roc del Quer road stands out because it can be carried out through the center of the wall, a very curious way to get to know other parts of the mountain.

3- Racons

Although the recommended level to do this route is intermediate, the truth is that it is a fairly vertical route and can impress many of its points. It can be done in less than 2 hours if you are somewhat agile and athletic. 

Routes in Encamp

This is another of my favorite areas to do this type of activity as it has several routes to choose from, depending on the difficulty and time you will have to devote to it. The views from above will leave you breathless. Among the most prominent ferrata routes in Encamps we have:

1- Clots of l’Aspra.

Perfect for beginners, it is an ideal way to enjoy the wonderful tour it offers if you don’t have much experience. It is also one of those chosen by families traveling with children, as it has numerous steps that make easy the way for the little ones.

 2- Bony d’Envalira

This route is cataloged with a medium level of difficulty. But, from my point of view, if you are physically fit and you like challenges, I recommend you do it, as it is one of the most impressive. The challenge here is that, on occasion, you must use the holes you find in the rock wall.

Other via ferrata

Although the two areas I have just mentioned are the best known for practicing this exciting sport, there are also many other areas with via ferrata. For example, in Ordino, we can choose between the Creu del Moral or the Via de Segudet. Both with a low level of difficulty, which makes them accessible to all publics.

We also have the Roc de la Coma d’Erts road, in La Massana, only suitable for the sportiest, as it has somewhat more complicated areas.

In Andorra la Vella we find Sant Vicenç d’Enclar, which stands out for being located in an oak forest. From it, we can see the hermitage of Sant Vicenç d’Enclar, which makes it even more charming.

On the other hand, the Roc d’Esquers route, in Escaldes-Engordany, has a large number of vertical peaks, which increases its degree of difficulty. But, all things said, the views from that height are the most beautiful you’ll find.

You already know that I always recommend very fun and exciting activities to do in Andorra, such as via ferrata in this case. Before finishing, I want to take the liberty of giving you some advice: always do these routes in a group and, above all, use all the protection systems offered by the monitors. And, now that we have the best of the kits … Enjoy!