Encamp: Funicamp, mountain trails and medieval history

The Funicamp gondola is in the Encamp area, runs through the Cortals valley and takes passengers to Solanelles. For a trip combining nature, physical activity and local history, Encamp offers a variety of options: trails into high-mountain landscapes start at the mid-station, while historic sites and buildings reveal other sides of the area. This lets you plan your day around the focus of your stay.

Funicamp and mountain activities

Several routes start at the Funicamp mid-station, offering a way to explore Encamp’s high-mountain landscapes. From there, you can reach mountain biking circuits, 4x4 bus excursions and the Clots de l’Aspra Via Ferrata. The availability of these activities may vary by season. If you plan to take part in one, check the current options in advance.

One mountain biking option is MTB Route 29: it starts at the top of Funicamp and follows the La Plana trail downhill to Encamp. Given the terrain and type of trails, it is recommended for enduro bikes and experienced riders. This linear descent therefore differs from the circuits that start at the mid-station.

Hiking trails with different highlights

The Llac d’Engolasters route in the Encamp area is about 2 km long and takes approximately two hours. The route has a stated elevation gain of 408 m. The time is divided into around 1 hour and 15 minutes to the end of the trail, followed by about 45 minutes for the downhill return; individual times may vary. This gives you both an approximate time estimate and information about the elevation profile.

Along the Camí de les Pardines, there are small botanical gardens with Pyrenean plants, several bridges and a small waterfall. The trail therefore offers a variety of features: plant life, sections with bridges and a waterfall. Children can also enjoy the Macarulla “Tracks and footprints” trail in Els Cortals d’Encamp. Games and activities introduce them to hiking and teach them about the native wildlife of the Principality of Andorra.

Medieval sites and local heritage

The medieval historic site of Les Bons includes several buildings, among them the church of Sant Romà de les Bons. In the Tremat area is the Molí del Guillem mill, which dates back to the 16th century. Alongside its trails and mountain activities, these places give Encamp a historical dimension.

Along the Camí de les Pardines is the Aixopluc de les Bruixes, a shelter commemorating the legend of the witches of Engolasters and the women accused of witchcraft in Andorra, particularly in the parish of Encamp. Inside is a mural by Àngel Calvente; outside stands a totem featuring a black cat. This connects the hike with a story from local history and heritage.

Andorra as a wider travel destination

The wider destination of Andorra offers more nature and culture to explore. The Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Cultural Landscape category in 2004. The Coronallacs Trail is an approximately 90 km circular hiking route connecting Andorra’s four mountain refuges. If you plan to take this longer route, check trail conditions before setting out.

Andorra also offers winter sports on different scales: Grandvalira has more than 300 km of ski runs spread across several sectors; Naturland offers 15 km of cross-country ski trails. Naturland also features the Tobotronc, an alpine coaster through the forest, and Forestline, a zipline more than 500 m long that runs through the trees. For specific winter activity plans, check the latest conditions and operating information.

Discover more destinations: El Pas De La Casa, Encamp, Andorra La Vella, Canillo, La Massana, Sant Julià De Lòria, Ordino, Escaldes-Engordany.

View the wider travel guide: Andorra.