On 15 July 2025, we set off on our journey from Tenerife North to Madrid, flying with Binter. After landing at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, we took a bus to Atocha Station, a comfortable and inexpensive journey — just €5 — that drops you off right in the centre, a few minutes from the Prado Museum.
We spent our first night at Urbansea Atocha 113, a centrally located accommodation, ideal for getting around this part of the city on foot. From there, we took the opportunity to visit the Prado Museum, an essential experience that offers an extraordinary display of pictorial and graphic art. Without a doubt, a must-see for any art lover.
We spent the afternoon strolling around the district, enjoying the Madrid atmosphere and its varied cultural and leisure offerings. In the evening, we had dinner at the Cervecería El Rincón de la Cruz Blanca restaurant, near Atocha, accompanied by a good friend who recommended the place to us. We were more than satisfied with the quality of the food and the service.
The next day, from the NH Madrid Atocha hotel, we joined the Alventus programme group to begin our journey to Andorra. The itinerary included a stopover in Zaragoza and arrival in the afternoon at the Hotel Màgic La Massana, in the parish of La Massana, Andorra. This hotel complex offers excellent service and cuisine, making it a highly recommended place for those visiting the area. La Massana, known for its natural surroundings and range of mountain activities, welcomed us with pleasant weather and breathtaking landscapes.
This trip, organised by Alventus, combined the cultural charm of Madrid with the nature and fresh air of Andorra, allowing us to enjoy both art and adventure. We would definitely recommend this experience to any traveller who wants to combine city, culture and mountains in the same trip.
List of links:
1. Details of the "Trails of Andorra" trip with Alventus https://alventus.com/viajes/verano/espana/senderos-de-andorra-5157
2. Urbansea Atocha 113 hotel page on Blue Sea Hotels https://www.blueseahotels.com/hoteles/destinos/madrid/madrid-centro/urbansea-atocha-113
3. Shared link from Booking for Urbansea Atocha 113 (version 1): https://www.booking.com/Share-RRrdlo
4. Shared link from Booking for Urbansea Atocha 113 (version 2): https://www.booking.com/Share-iZyZXy
5. Review of the restaurant "El Rincón de la Cruz Blanca" on Tripadvisor: https://www.tripadvisor.es/Restaurant_Review-g187514-d8435337-Reviews-Restaurante_Cerveceria_El_Rincon_de_la_Cruz_Blanca-Madrid.html
6. Location of the restaurant on Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/awTy6dqny3nCVHtU8?g_st=aw
7. Tourist information about Atocha station on esMadrid: https://www.esmadrid.com/informacion-turistica/estacion-de-atocha
8. Tickets for the Prado Museum on Civitatis: https://www.civitatis.com/es/madrid/entrada-museo-prado/
9. Another option for tickets to the Prado Museum: https://museodelprado-tickets.org/
10. NH Madrid Atocha hotel page on NH Hotels: https://www.nh-hotels.com/es/hotel/nh-madrid-atocha
11. Shared link from Booking for the NH Madrid Atocha: https://www.booking.com/Share-LjACoxW
12. Hotel Màgic La Massana website: https://www.nextahotels.com/hotel-magic-la-massana.html
13. Tourist information for the parish of La Massana (FemTurisme): https://www.femturisme.cat/es/comarcas/parroquia-la-massana
14. Official tourism website for La Massana (Visit La Massana): https://www.visitlamassana.ad/es
15. Wikipedia article on La Massana: https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_Massana
Day 2 – Lakes and Cirque of Pessons: the glacial jewel of Encamp
The day dawned cool and bright, ideal for walking. After breakfast, we set off for the parish of Encamp, where one of Andorra's most iconic landscapes awaited us: the Pessons glacial cirque. As we gained altitude through the Envalira Pass, the mountains opened up, revealing a mosaic of crystal-clear lakes and peaks reaching almost 2,800 metres.
The route was easy, about 11 kilometres long, perfect for enjoying at a leisurely pace. We walked surrounded by green meadows, alpine flowers and the constant sound of water. Each lake was a mirror reflecting the clouds, and in some we even saw fishermen trying to catch river trout.
After our picnic, we returned to Andorra la Vella, the capital, for a cultural visit. We strolled through its historic centre, stopping at the Casa de la Vall, the Church of Sant Esteve and other Romanesque and pre-Romanesque points of interest. Then we had some free time to browse the shops in the commercial area. The feeling was clear: Andorra combines wild nature with intense urban life like few other places.
Day 3 – Vall d'Incles: a valley frozen in time and the sanctuary of the patron saint
Our third day in Andorra with Alventus continued with an exciting visit to one of the principality's most iconic natural destinations: the Tristaina Lakes. This excursion is one of the best known and most recommended for those who enjoy hiking and mountain landscapes. The starting point was the Vallnord - Ordino Arcalís ski resort, a privileged enclave in both winter and summer, with breathtaking views and multiple routes to explore. From there, we set off on our journey to the Estanys de Tristaina, a group of glacial lakes located in a natural environment of great beauty.
The day began in the Incles Valley, one of those places that seems to have been frozen in time. A U-shaped glacial valley, covered with meadows and crossed by the Manegor River, where nature shows itself in all its summer splendour. The trail ran alongside the river, among butterflies, colourful flowers and the constant murmur of the water. The walk, about 12 kilometres long, was peaceful and very photogenic. The picnic lunch tasted better than ever, with the fresh mountain air and the warm sun on our skin.
In the afternoon, a visit to the Sanctuary of Meritxell took us to the spiritual heart of Andorra. There, history and modernity coexist: the old Romanesque chapel, rebuilt after a fire, and the modern sanctuary by Ricard Bofill, with bold lines and open to the landscape. A place steeped in symbolism, dedicated to Saint Mary, patron saint of the country, which sums up Andorran devotion and identity.
For those who want to learn more about the trips and activities offered by Alventus, there are specific programmes in both winter and summer. The Ordino Arcalís resort is not only the base for this route, but also an important ski centre renowned for its quality and variety of slopes. In addition to nature and sport, Andorra offers exquisite cuisine. We especially recommend the restaurant La Borda de la Coma, a place where you can enjoy local cuisine in an authentic mountain setting. In short, this day with Alventus was a perfect blend of adventure, nature and culture, showing why Andorra is such an attractive destination in both winter and summer.
List of links:
1. Tristaina Lakes – Information on Wikipedia:
https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lagos_de_Tristaina
2. Estanys de Tristaina hiking trail – Andorra Tourism:
https://visitandorra.com/es/naturaleza--deportes/ruta-de-senderismo-estanys-de-tristaina/
3. Winter travel programme with Alventus:
https://alventus.com/viajes/invierno/otros
4. Trails of Andorra – Summer programme with Alventus:
https://alventus.com/viajes/verano/espana/senderos-de-andorra-5157
5. Ordino Arcalís ski resort – Wikipedia:
https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ordino-Arcal%C3%ADs
6. Reviews of Ordino Arcalís – Tripadvisor:
7. Grandvalira official website – Information and activities:
https://www.grandvalira.com/es
8. La Borda de la Coma restaurant – Image and location:
https://share.google/xWkNE1FU0pi7msZXW
9. Video about La Borda de la Coma – TikTok:
https://vm.tiktok.com/ZNdQM3Sa5/
10. Ordino Arcalís ski resort – Photo of the route:
https://share.google/6kYqKF38hfy5jTArV
Day 4 – Estanys de Tristaina: an alpine paradise
The fourth day was reserved for one of the most famous routes in the country: the Estanys de Tristaina. We took the cable car from the Vallnord-Ordino Arcalís station, which took us to the start of the trail. In just 45 minutes, we reached Estany Primer, at 2,250 metres, with waters so clear that it seemed as if the sky had dissolved into them.
We continued on to Estany del Mig and finally to Estany de Més Amunt, the largest and highest. The views from there were breathtaking: lakes surrounded by Pyrenean peaks, high meadows and the Ordino valley stretching into the distance.
The 9-kilometre route was leisurely, enjoying the fresh air and silence broken only by birdsong and the murmur of water. A picnic lunch, sitting by the lake, brought the day to a close before returning to the hotel.
Day 5 – Ruta del Ferro: mining history and relaxation in Caldea
In the morning, a cultural and historical walk: the Ruta del Ferro, between Llorts and La Cortinada. Just 4.5 kilometres along the Valira River, but steeped in history. We visited the Llorts Mine, the Iron Men sculptures, the miners' path and the church of Sant Martí de la Cortinada. This route pays tribute to those who worked in the iron and steel industry between the 17th and 19th centuries, an activity that was vital to the country's economy.
The afternoon offered two options: rest or a visit to Caldea, the largest thermal spa in Europe. Those of us who went found an avant-garde building housing thermal pools, temperature contrast circuits, saunas, steam baths and outdoor areas with views of the mountains. A sensory experience that left us feeling refreshed.
The fifth day of our programme with Alventus was dedicated to discovering the beauty of the Vall de Sorteny Natural Park, one of the most impressive natural areas in Andorra. Following the course of the river, we were able to enjoy mountain landscapes, native vegetation and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for connecting with nature.
It was Sunday, 20 July, a day that will remain in our memory as an unforgettable part of the route organised by Alventus. The combination of fresh air, well-marked trails and the natural wealth of Sorteny made this visit one of the most special of the trip.
List of links:
1. Vall de Sorteny Natural Park – Location on Google Maps:
https://share.google/QpTUMKbwal8pqRoZe
Days 6 to 9: stay in Andorra La Vella, with culture, nature and quality of life. Extension of the trip – Andorra La Vella (21 to 24 July)
After completing the hiking programme with Alventus from 16 to 21 July, we decided to extend our stay in Andorra to explore its capital, Andorra La Vella, at a more leisurely pace and immerse ourselves in its cultural and leisure activities.
We stayed at the Hotel ALEGRIA President, a very central establishment that proved to be the perfect base for exploring the city on foot. The service was excellent, the atmosphere peaceful and the price very competitive for the high season in July. From here, we set off on urban routes and excursions on our own, enjoying the convenience of having everything just a few steps away. During these days, we were able to alternate walks through the historic centre with visits to museums and galleries, as well as outdoor activities. The contrast between the festive hustle and bustle, the gastronomic offerings and the serenity of the natural surroundings just a few kilometres away was one of the best surprises of the trip.
Andorra is a small country, but it is safe and offers a good quality of life. During our stay in the capital, Andorra La Vella, we had the opportunity to get to know the city and talk to its residents, who told us about what it is like to live there, the standard of living and the advantages of residing in the Principality. Although living in Andorra is more expensive today, with prices similar to those in Spain, the quality of life remains one of its great attractions.
The combination of hiking with Alventus and the urban dynamism of the capital was a very rewarding experience. One of the places we visited was an iconic travelling art museum, located in the heart of Andorra La Vella. The visit was enriching, as the audio guide allowed us to discover the history of each painter and better understand the interpretation of their works.
We also enjoyed an excursion to Lake Engolasters, a natural environment with family recreational areas. The Andorran government offers a free bus service that departs from the Caldea spa and takes you to the starting point of the route to the lake. During the week, the bus drops you off at the starting point and you have to walk, while at weekends it goes all the way to the lake. We walked up and returned along the cycle path.
Our stay from 21 to 24 July included accommodation at the ALEGRIA President hotel, near the centre, which allowed us to enjoy the local festivities in the capital just before we left. Our last night in Andorra was on 23 July, returning to Tenerife on the 24th. The city, welcoming and dynamic, feels like a "mini Madrid": well connected to Spain and France, safe, friendly and with a pleasant atmosphere, a true little paradise in the heart of Europe. For the return journey, we used the direct bus service from Andorra La Vella to Barcelona airport, a three-hour journey that dropped us off at Terminal 1 before we took our flight back to Tenerife.
List of links
1. Location of the museum on Google Maps:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/JM8qQdRBiipg9S6S7
2. Instagram profile related to the cultural visit:
https://www.instagram.com/autentic.llati?igsh=YWkwZ3M2N3g2bnN1
3. Lake Engolasters – Wikipedia:
https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lago_de_Engolasters
4. Article about Lake Engolasters – Els Petits Viatgers:
5. Andorra – Barcelona Airport bus service (Andbus):
6. Hotel ALEGRIA President – Booking:
https://www.booking.com/Share-j95tyz
7. Instagram post about local festivals:
https://www.instagram.com/p/DMdmf1jt1Iv/
8. Programme for the Festa Major d’Escaldes-Engordany – Dr. Prats:
9. YouTube video related to the festivities:
https://youtu.be/rkWiGs3VF80?si=fhRPBv60Nbfj8lGJ
10. Location on Google Maps (point 1):
https://maps.app.goo.gl/xFaNoFoLjPueQRQV6
11. Location on Google Maps (point 2):
https://maps.app.goo.gl/nrB4B7zY9JDkndbdA?g_st=aw
12. Location on Google Maps (point 3):
https://maps.app.goo.gl/UPsZkX1GMZmJdzvd7?g_st=aw
13. Recommended restaurant in Andorra la Vella (QR code and location on Maps):
https://maps.app.goo.gl/JM8qQdRBiipg9S6S7
14. Instagram of the restaurant Autèntic Llatì:
https://www.instagram.com/autentic.llati?igsh=YWkwZ3M2N3g2bnN
15. Andbus buses (Prime line):
https://andbus.net/es/andbus-prime/
16. Public transport in Andorra:
https://e-e.ad/publicacio/5702/ee-bus/
17. Transport to Lake Engolasters (Moovit):
18. The CAEE presents the most significant engravings by the German Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer. Article published on 24 June 2025 on the website of the municipality of Escaldes-Engordany:
Andorra Business and the advantages of living in the Principality
Andorra is not only known for its mountain landscapes and quality of life, but also for its business and investment opportunities. The Andorra Business platform offers detailed information on the reasons for living and investing in the country, as well as the advantages offered by its tax environment, its strategic location between Spain and France, and its growing international profile.
Among the most notable aspects are tax benefits, public safety, the quality of the healthcare system, access to nature and a balanced lifestyle. In addition, Andorra is promoting policies to attract new residents, entrepreneurs and businesses, fostering a dynamic and competitive business ecosystem.
There are specialised resources that explain the advantages of investing in business in Andorra, as well as guides for those wishing to relocate. These include information on the cost of living, legal requirements, tax incentives and testimonials from those who have already settled in the country.
In December 2018, our project coordinator Miguel Muñoz visited London with the aim of exploring the city and, above all, establishing contact with investment groups to promote two entrepreneurial initiatives linked to the destination of Playa Paraíso, in the municipality of Adeje (Tenerife). One of the most notable activities was the visit to the London Chamber of Commerce on 7 December 2018, where the ongoing projects were presented. This information is included in a post on the project blog.
–Visit by the coordinator, Miguel Muñoz, to the city of London, from 1 to 8 December 2018. Article published on our blog, dated 12 December 2018:
This trip allowed Miguel Muñoz to present the two main initiatives: the Playa Paraíso Technology Park and a future marina with a marine research centre near the Hard Rock Tenerife hotel. These initiatives seek to obtain investment for their development and are currently being studied for a new round of presentations. This process includes the participation of university and vocational training students in internships supporting the architects responsible for drafting the projects.
In terms of financial management, a crowdfunding platform has been created with the aim of raising €60,000 through donations to finance preliminary studies and the final presentation of the initiatives to the public, administrations and companies, both national and international. Individuals and entities that make donations of up to €60 will be rewarded with a collective publication of thanks, in which their names will be included. On the other hand, those who donate more than €60 will receive an individual publication as a token of appreciation. This process will culminate in a live presentation via social media. For more information about the initiatives and crowdfunding, please consult the blog.
–Our six crowdfunding lines. Article published on our blog on 17 November 2022:
We are currently organising a second trip to London, where the initiatives will be presented at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, with the aim of consolidating the economic alliances required to promo these business strategies.
List of links:
1. Andorra Business homepage:
https://www.andorrabusiness.com/
2. Spanish version of Andorra Business:
https://www.andorrabusiness.com/es/
3. Andorra Business profile on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/andorrabusiness/
4. Andorra Business Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1JUzD2T7ee/
5. Advantages of living in Andorra – Andorra Business:
https://www.andorrabusiness.com/es/invertir/ventajas/vivir-andorra/
6. Advantages of investing in Andorra – Investment section:
https://www.andorrabusiness.com/es/invertir/
7. Guide to living in Andorra – Delvy:
https://delvy.es/vivir-en-andorra/
8. Benefits of living in Andorra – Advantia:
https://www.advantia.ad/residencia/beneficios-de-vivir-en-andorra
9. President of the Government of Andorra – Wikipedia:
https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Presidente_del_Gobierno_de_Andorra
10. Discover the unique form of government of Andorra and how the nation works – The Diplomat in Spain:
11. Facebook page related to the Government of Andorra:
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1F2H5KS9WH/
12. Superior Council of Justice of Andorra – Wikipedia:
https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Consejo_Superior_de_Justicia_de_Andorra
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