Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley
Date of Inscription: 2004
Selection criteria: (V) to be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change
Overview: The Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley is a stunning World Heritage site located in the eastern part of Andorra, a small landlocked country in the Pyrenees mountains. Visiting the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley is a unique and unforgettable experience that allows visitors to connect with nature, history, and culture. Whether you choose to hike through its stunning landscapes or explore its fascinating cultural heritage, this World Heritage site is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Andorra.
Prominent Features:
Fun Fact: The Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley covers an area of approximately 4,247 hectares (10,500 acres) in Andorra, which represents about 9% of the country's total territory.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to visit the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley World Heritage site.
How to Reach It:
Selection criteria: (V) to be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change
Overview: The Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley is a stunning World Heritage site located in the eastern part of Andorra, a small landlocked country in the Pyrenees mountains. Visiting the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley is a unique and unforgettable experience that allows visitors to connect with nature, history, and culture. Whether you choose to hike through its stunning landscapes or explore its fascinating cultural heritage, this World Heritage site is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Andorra.
Prominent Features:
- Scenic beauty: The Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, with snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear streams, and lush forests.
- Perafita Claror: This is one of the most important archaeological sites in the valley, and it features the remains of a medieval settlement that dates back to the 11th century. Visitors can explore the ruins of several houses and a church, as well as a defensive tower and a water cistern.
- Les Feixes: This site features the remains of an ancient irrigation system that was used to cultivate crops in the valley. Visitors can see the stone channels and terraces that were used to divert water from the river and distribute it to the fields.
- Balma de la Margineda: This site features a series of rock shelters that were used by prehistoric humans as early as 8,000 years ago. Visitors can see the remains of hearths, tools, and pottery that offer insights into the daily lives of these early inhabitants.
- Sant Martí de la Cortinada: This site features the ruins of a Romanesque church that dates back to the 12th century. Visitors can see the remains of the nave, the apse, and the bell tower, as well as several Gothic and Renaissance additions that were made to the church over the centuries.
Fun Fact: The Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley covers an area of approximately 4,247 hectares (10,500 acres) in Andorra, which represents about 9% of the country's total territory.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to visit the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley World Heritage site.
How to Reach It:
- By car: The easiest way to reach the valley is by car, as there is no public transportation that goes directly to the site. Visitors can park at the designated parking area near the town of Escaldes-Engordany and then hike into the valley. The distance between Andorra la Vella (the capital of Andorra) and the Valley is approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles). The journey by car takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. Alternatively, visitors can also arrange for a guided tour or transportation service to the valley from Andorra la Vella.
- By hiking: There are several hiking trails that lead into the valley, including the GR7 and the Cami de Perafita. These trails can be accessed from various points around the valley, and visitors can choose to hike for a few hours or several days, depending on their interests and abilities.