Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley
© Shutterstock / Salva G C
Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley
Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley
Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley
Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley
Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley
HIKING
Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley is a quiet and untouched glacial valley in the southeast of Andorra. It covers around 42 km² and is the country’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site. When you enter the valley, you leave the modern world behind. There are no roads or villages inside, only old stone paths, forest tracks, clear rivers and mountain views. The silence, clean air and natural beauty make this place one of the best outdoor attractions in the Pyrenees.
People have lived and worked in this valley for thousands of years, using the land in a very careful way. Today, hikers can still see signs of that history on the trails. You will find stone walls, small farm buildings and traditional terraces that show how earlier communities used the mountains without damaging the environment.
This guide will help you plan your visit. It includes a useful map section, the main things to expect in the valley, hiking ideas, practical information and a detailed FAQ. With this information, you can confidently explore one of the most beautiful cultural landscapes in Europe.
Use this map to quickly understand the layout of the valley and its surroundings. You will see the main access points, including areas near La Plana, Engolasters, and Encamp. The map also shows the visitor centre location, parking spot, and the approximate starting points of several hiking routes. This helps you visualise where everything is in Andorra before you arrive.
Please note that hiking trails are not marked very accurately on Google Maps. They are useful for orientation, but not for precise navigation. For safe and detailed planning, it is better to use the official trail map created for the valley.
You can find the full, correct trail network here:
Official Valley Map
Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley is a long glacial valley shaped by ice, water and centuries of human activity. The landscape changes as you walk, starting with quiet pine and fir forests, then rising to open mountain pastures, rocky slopes and clear glacial lakes. The river runs through the centre of the valley, with small bridges and natural rest spots along the way.
Wildlife is another highlight. You may see chamois on the steep slopes, marmots near the rocks and golden eagles circling above. In spring and summer, the meadows are full of mountain flowers, butterflies and fresh green colours. The valley feels very peaceful because it is protected and free from traffic.
At the same time, the valley is also a living history book. For many generations, local people used the land for farming, herding and seasonal work. You can still see traditional stone houses (bordes), shepherd shelters, old paths and dry-stone terraces. These features are the reason UNESCO recognises the valley as an important cultural landscape. Walking here lets you experience nature and heritage together in a single journey.
Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley has many marked trails, from easier forest walks to long high-mountain routes. Some paths connect to well-known trails like the GR7 and GR11, making the valley part of larger Pyrenees crossings.
Shorter walks start near Escaldes-Engordany or Andorra la Vella. These early sections follow historic stone paths beside the river and offer gentle climbs with nice viewpoints.
However, many routes in the valley are rated moderate to hard, so families with small children should visit the official visitor centre first. Staff can recommend the safest and most suitable paths for your group.
The full valley route is around 23 km and takes about 7 hours for fit hikers. It passes forests, pastures, stone buildings and several bridges. Many visitors choose only the lower part of the trail—such as hiking to Fontverd and back—for a shorter but rewarding experience.
Experienced hikers can choose steeper circuits from areas like Encamp, often 13 km with 5–7 hours of walking. These trails climb towards lakes, ridges and panoramic passes with wide views of the Pyrenees. Some hikers combine these with overnight stays in mountain huts for multi-day adventures.
Most hikers visit from late spring to early autumn, when the snow has melted from the main trails and days are longer.
In May and June, the valley is very green and the rivers are full. July and August bring warmer temperatures and stable weather, but also more visitors.
In autumn, the forests turn golden and the air is cooler, which is great for long walks. In winter, snow covers much of the valley and access is more difficult. Special equipment and skills are then needed, and many people choose other areas of Andorra for winter sports.
The valley is a protected area. Stay on marked trails, respect animals, keep noise low and take all your rubbish with you. Do not pick flowers or disturb wildlife. These simple steps help protect the valley’s fragile ecosystems.
You can access the valley from Escaldes-Engordany, Andorra la Vella or Encamp. Local buses bring you close to the entrances, and from there you continue on foot since cars are not allowed inside.
Lower trails are easy to moderate. High-mountain routes are steeper and require good fitness. Weather can change quickly, so always check the forecast and bring proper clothing.
The main visitor centre, Portal de la Vall, is in Escaldes-Engordany. It offers route advice, maps and exhibitions. Hours vary by season.
Official Portal de la Vall Website
Most visitors stay in nearby towns such as Andorra la Vella or Escaldes-Engordany, where you’ll find plenty of hotels and services close to the trailheads. Andorra la Vella Old Town is especially convenient if you want a central base with restaurants, shops and easy access to the valley.
Inside the mountains, there are unmanned refuges with basic sleeping areas for multi-day hikes.
Bring hiking shoes, warm layers, a rain jacket, water, snacks, sunscreen, a map (offline or printed) and a charged phone. For overnight trips, carry sleeping gear and food.
Here are the most common questions travelers ask when planning a trip to the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley in Andorra, including access, difficulty, seasons, and what to expect on the trails.
Many visitors spend half a day or a full day. For deeper exploration or multi-day trails, 2–3 days are ideal.
Yes, but conditions change. In winter, many trails are covered in snow and require special equipment. Most visitors come between May and October.
No permit is needed for hiking. You can enter the valley freely, but you must respect all protection rules.
Drone use is limited and often requires permission due to wildlife protection. Check Andorra’s drone regulations before flying.
There are no facilities inside the valley. You must bring your own water and supplies.
Swimming is not recommended due to cold temperatures and environmental protection rules. Visitors should avoid disturbing fragile ecosystems.
Some runners use lower paths for trail running, but higher routes are rocky and steep. Good footwear and experience are necessary.
Sturdy hiking shoes or boots with good grip are recommended, especially for rocky or wet sections.
Camping is restricted because the valley is a protected area. Most visitors use unmanned refuges or stay in nearby towns. Always check the latest rules before planning to camp.
Coverage is good near the entrances and on high open areas, but weak or missing in deeper parts of the valley. Always download offline maps before you start your hike.
