The biggest pro cyclist contests in the planet find their way to the mountainous microstate. Take for example La Vuelta. The 3rd stage of the upcoming Spanish Grand Tour leads to the skiing area of Arinsal. The peloton starts from the capital Andorra la Vella in the following day to re-enter neighbouring Spain.
The biggest race on the planet, the Tour de France, visits Andorra on a regular base as well. Two years ago it was Sepp Kuss who emerged victorious from the breakaway in Andorra la Vella. The American attacked on the final climb, the Coll de Beixalis, and extended his lead on the descent to Andorra la Vella. Tom Dumoulin also knows what it feels like to win a Tour de France stage in Andorra. In 2016 the now retired Dutchman turned out on top – quite literally – in a monster stage that finished in ski resort Ordino Arcalís, close to the border with France.
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In short, Andorra is synonymous with thrilling road races at the highest level. With the combination of beautiful landscapes and challenging routes, the Pyrenean mountain country offers everything that makes cycling so beautiful. But not only the pros enjoy the beauty of Andorra, you as well can tour these very same roads.
Although the country is small in size, Andorra is big when it comes to cycling. It is an Eldorado for both the road bike and the MTB. The tarmac roads are in excellent condition and offer something for everyone. Flat roads in the valleys and double-digit gradients on the flanks of the numerous cols.
Anyone who likes to push the limit has plenty of choice between 1st category and hors category cols. Think of La Rabassa, Coll de la Gallina, Port del Cabús, Coll d’Ordino, and many more mythical climbs. Those who dare to battle gravity will be rewarded with amazing views of the mighty Andorran nature. With every hairpin bend the landscape becomes more majestic. Suffering from an imminent hunger pang? No problem. There are plenty of picnic areas and good restaurants along the way to stop and re-energize.
MTB enthusiasts can eat their hearts out in Andorra on a bonanza of routes. This ranges from closed circuits such as the Wood Park in Pal Arinsal Bike Park to courses through the great outdoors. Think of Camí del Gall, Camí de les Pardines or the MTB version of La Rabassa. In addition, many ski slopes are transformed into spectacular descents in the summer.
For more information, go to Visit Andorra or the social networks @andorraworld