Andorra Holidays

A mere smudge on the border between France and Spain on a European map and coming in at a lightweight 291 square km (181 square miles), the tiny landlocked Principality of Andorra attracts an inordinate number of tourists – over 10 million a year – with a population of just 86,000 people. It's the tourism euros that keep the economy afloat (making up over 80% of the country's GDP), ably supported by its status as a tax haven. Comparatively rich, the people here not only enjoy fantastic winter snow but glorious summer sunshine that no doubt contribute to the inhabitants having one of the longest life expectancies in the world.

Amazingly, since 1278 Andorra has been ruled jointly by the President of France and the Catalan Bishop of Urgell in Spain. The agreement was reconfirmed in 1993 when the first Andorran Constitution was passed, however, the dual head of state roles are practically honorary. Andorrans live in seven valleys framed by the steep mountains of the Pyrenees, but locals make up only approximately 43% of the population, with Spanish, French and Portuguese making up most of the rest of the population. While the official language is Catalan, it's common to hear French, Portuguese and Spanish being spoken – as well as plenty of English on the ski lifts!

It is the winter sports resorts that have put the country firmly on the tourist map. The fact that the capital, Andorra la Vella, rests at 3,356 feet, making it the highest elevation of any capital city in Europe, is a clue to just how mountainous the tiny country is. Along with its 299 kilometres (186 miles) of runs and less expensive lift tickets than France and Spain, plenty of sun, friendly locals, and good food, make it a great winter sport destination. The budget friendly prices especially appeal to families and friends doing their first ski trip and the infrastructure is well set up for beginners.