Journey to Andorra: Exploring the Hidden Gems of the Pyrenees

Mirador Solar de Tristaina

The Mirador Solar de Tristaina is located in Andorra, specifically in the Parish of Ordino, and is one of the most fascinating sights to see in Andorra.

The spectacular spherical platform of the solar clock offers majestic views of the peaks that form the Tristaina Cirque and the Tristaina Lakes, making the hike to these spots both easy and spectacular. Access is convenient via a cable car and chairlift that take visitors to this magical location.

For the more athletic, there’s the option to hike from the Ordino Arcalís ski station without any cost.

How to get to Mirador Solar de Tristaina

The viewpoint is situated at an altitude of 2700 meters, atop Peyreguils Peak (2701 meters) in the heart of the Ordino Valley.

By car, access is via CG3 road, which ascends 8 kilometers from Ordino to the famous Andorran ski resort, Ordino Arcalís.

During peak season, it’s necessary to park at the lower Ordino Arcalís station and either walk up to the upper Coma station or opt for the modern cable cars, some of which feature glass floors (not recommended for those with vertigo).

From La Coma, where there’s a good restaurant, visitors can hike to Mirador Solar de Tristaina (approximately one hour) or skip the nearly 400 meters of elevation gain by comfortably taking the Creussans chairlift, which stops just a 5-minute walk from the viewpoint. From there, it’s a short, steep climb to reach the Tristaina solar clock.

The Mirador Solar de Tristaina

The chairlift ride takes about 10 minutes and offers beautiful views of Lake Creussens.

Upon arrival, the impressive Tristaina Cirque unfolds, featuring numerous peaks reaching heights of approximately 3000 meters.

A sign indicates that the viewpoint is between France and Andorra, making it a fun spot for photos against panoramic backdrops.

Next, visitors face a short, rocky ascent. While brief, this path is not suitable for baby strollers or individuals with limited mobility.

The Mirador Solar de Tristaina consists of a 25-meter diameter metal sphere with a 1.5-meter width. Visitors can walk around its diameter and enjoy superb views of the Ordino Valley and the Tristaina Lakes.

It’s also recommended to take photos of the clock sphere from a nearby promontory, providing a view of its suspended structure above the terrain and capturing memorable images of the Mirador Solar de Tristaina.

Canillo Tibetan Bridge

The Canillo Tibetan Bridge has rightfully become one of the Principality’s top attractions and is undoubtedly a must-see in Andorra.

Imagine crossing the world’s second-longest Tibetan bridge, stretching 603 meters at an altitude of 1,875 meters—truly an adventure not for the faint-hearted or those afraid of heights!

How to get to the Canillo Tibetan Bridge:
Located in the village of Canillo, 12 km north of Andorra la Vella, access is via CG2 road. If you’re staying in the Ordino parish, we recommend CS240 road across Coll d’Ordino—a scenic mountain route with hairpin turns and pure Pyrenean landscapes.

The bridge itself is on this mountain road before reaching Canillo. To access it, park at Roc del Quer viewpoint or in Canillo and catch the free shuttle bus that runs every 20 minutes with your entry ticket.

For a more adventurous option, you can try parking right at the bridge entrance—though space is limited to about 15 cars, and parking is officially restricted to hikers, with enforcement a bit ambiguous.

Crossing the Canillo Tibetan Bridge

Upon arriving at the entrance, it’s a 900-meter walk along a dirt path to the bridge entrance. Along the way, there are shaded porches with benches—perfect for seniors and families with young children.

Despite the somewhat lengthy approach, the spectacular bird’s-eye views of the Canillo Parish and the mountains ahead, home to the renowned Grandvalira ski slopes, more than make up for it.

After nearly 1 km, wooden stairs lead to the bridge’s access point, offering striking lateral views of the suspended structure.

And now, the adventure of crossing this suspended bridge in the air begins. If you arrive early (before 10 am in summer), you might have the bridge almost to yourself—perfect for capturing photos and videos. Remember, the early bird catches the worm!

Despite its hefty weight (200 tons), the bridge has a slight sway that enhances the thrill—not excessive but enough to add to the vertigo-inducing experience.

At 603 meters long (one way), it’s a good stroll, adding to the 900 meters of access path for a total round trip of 3 km. Our second tip: wear comfortable shoes!

Throughout, the views are breathtaking, especially peering over the Vall del Riu valley, 158 meters below, at an altitude of nearly 1900 meters.

A selfie on the Canillo Tibetan Bridge is an absolute must—capturing this exhilarating experience suspended high above the valley is an adventure you won’t forget!

Roc del Quer Viewpoint

Located 2.5 km from the bridge entrance, the spectacular Roc del Quer viewpoint offers breathtaking views. As mentioned, you can park at the viewpoint’s parking lot, but note that the road lacks a shoulder and has many curves where campers, buses, etc., pass—making walking to the bridge not recommended.

From the parking lot, it’s just a 5-minute walk to reach the impressive 20-meter-long platform (12 meters of which hang over the void). Here, a striking sculpture of a reclining man, gazing out over the panoramic sensations, guides visitors to the best viewpoints.

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable panorama, with a 500-meter free fall overlooking the Canillo Parish and the Grandvalira mountains.

Tickets, Prices, and Timings for the Canillo Tibetan Bridge (2024)

• Ticket price for the Tibetan bridge is 14 € for adults.
• Ticket price for access to the Roc del Quer viewpoint is 5 € for adults.
• A combined ticket for both attractions is 16.5 € (includes shuttle bus).

The tourist attraction is open from April to November, with high season hours from 10 am to 7 pm.

Visiting the Canillo Tibetan Bridge and the Roc del Quer viewpoint promises not only breathtaking views but also an adventure filled with excitement and wonder. Whether you’re crossing the second longest Tibetan bridge in the world or marveling at the expansive panoramas from Roc del Quer, each moment is an opportunity to embrace the beauty and thrill of Andorra’s natural landscapes. So, pack your courage, your camera, and your sense of awe, because these experiences will leave an indelible mark on your journey through the heart of the Pyrenees.