As a result of its geographical location and geological structure, the Principality of Andorra is a natural viewpoint that gives us the opportunity to contemplate its landscapes from above and see far beyond its borders.
Because of a highly connected road system through the different local environments, it is possible to access multiple places such as the Vall d'Ordino, declared a Biosphere Reserve in 2020 and refuge of innumerable natural treasures such as the Natural Park of Sorteny, the Casamanya's Peak, the Estanyó's Peak, the Lakes of Tristaina , as well as points of tourist and cultural interest such as the Ruta del Ferro, or the Tristaina Solar Viewpoint (also known as the Solar Clock).
The Tristaina viewpoint is located in the Ordino Arcalís resort on the circular route known as Circ de Tristaina, specifically on the Peyreguils Peak, which rises to 2,701 metres.
The structure was inaugurated in the summer of 2021 and since its installation it has become one of the most popular routes for visitors and local residents because of its incomparable views, both in winter and summer.
The Tristaina Viewpoint offers stunning 360º panoramic views over the Vall de Ordino, the three lakes of Tristaina (Lake Primer, Lake del Mig, and Lake Més Amunt), and the French and Spanish mountain range due to its location on the geographical border.
Concerning the clock itself, it is a 25-metre-diameter metal sphere whose circular walkway is 1.25 m wide and is suspended above the ground. This provides a striking visual impact whether we look up or down, as the grids on the ground allows us to observe what is under our feet, but always in complete safety.
The denomination of clock is due to the 27-metre central mast with an inclination towards the exact latitude where the construction is located (42.55º), marking the time on the circumference itself with the rotation of the sun.
While the Solar Viewpoint is an attraction in itself with perfect angles in every corner to take incredible photographs or videos, its surroundings offer the opportunity to stop and take in the air with a panorama that takes the breath away with its immense beauty.
During the spring and summer months the terrain is very accessible and perfect for enjoying a picnic, taking a walk with pets or even children and elderly people. If you decide to visit it in the winter months, the landscape becomes more demanding and requires special equipment, but it still offers a unique and completely snowy scenery.
It is important to mention that the CS-380 is closed to vehicles from the first car park in Ordino Arcalís during the summer season from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm. Therefore, if you decide to visit the Tristaina Solar Viewpoint by car and do not wish to pay for the tickets, you will have to do so outside these hours.
There are several options to get to the Tristaina viewpoint:
For the more daring and adventurous, the route starts at the first Ordino Arcalís car park (42.63208550861326, 1.5017748850756467) where it is possible to leave the car and walk up a route of approximately 11 kilometres with some difficulty due to the slope. This is undoubtedly the most demanding, economical and ideal alternative for trekking enthusiasts.
For those who prefer a more comfortable option and visit the Viewpoint with family or pets, it is possible to take the Tristaina telecabin that leaves from Hortell (42.62939725150542, 1.4966757212147954), which takes approximately 10 minutes to reach La Coma Restaurant. Once there, we can continue the route with the Creussans chairlift for about 15 more minutes, crossing the lake that gives its name to the lift, or we can do it walking on foot with a steep slope but without major difficulties.
The price of the full pass, which includes the Telecabin and chairlift ride, is 22 € during the high season (from 29th July to 27th August) and 20 € in the low season. If you prefer to take the single pass with a Telecabin ride or a Chairlift ride, the value of the tickets is 18 € in the high season and 17 € during the low season.
However you choose to reach your destination, visiting the Tristaina Solar Viewpoint will be an unforgettable experience that will allow you to treasure in photos and on your memory incredible moments, a fact that reflects all that Andorra has to offer.
Comentarios