For our 2nd day in Andorra, we chose to start at a nearby ski area – Grau Roig. Not surprisingly, the area was nearly deserted, but for the various workers prepping for the upcoming season, and the few hikers, such as ourselves. From our experiences in New England, it seemed not much different than other ski areas, though nearly everywhere one looked, there were lifts – surrounded by trail opportunities.
With the country size being what it is, we were acutely aware of the nearby “international” borders – in this case France. Road signs were also a give-away – often in multiple languages. Fortunately, we didn’t need to concern ourselves with roadsigns, only the occasional trail sign indicating direction or distance to some other waypoint.
As with the prior day’s hike, this trail was also easy – at least from a footing perspective. What made this hike more challenging was the altitude. Remember that most of Andorra is at least 6,000′ elevation. The Grau Riog parking lot itself is at 6,950′ – already at treeline. The trail was leading to Els Pessons – one of the many peaks in the area – at an altitude of 9,200′. We were getting into heights where altitude begins to become a factor.
Because we were well-above treeline, we enjoyed constant vistas of nearly limitless visibility. In the view below, you can spot the Grau Riog parking lot roughly mid-center.
As alluded to – altitude became a factor on this hike. This was only day 2 in Andorra – not nearly enough time to acclimate to the elevation, so while the scenery was breathtaking, so was the altitude. Once reaching the “Collada del Pessons), and having a bit of food, we decided to turn around and make our way down. Again, easy footing, and less taxing on the lungs.
While not part of the plan, we came to the Refugi del Llac de Pessons – with a wonderful outdoor deck. And to our great enjoyment, Compari and chips! we still had maybe a mile to the car, so not too much risk with the alcohol – besides, it was all downhill (670′ descent!)
Our second hike in Andorra, challenging as it was, had some truly some amazing vistas.