Pont d'Arcalís

The Pont d'Arcalís is a historic stone bridge in the upper reaches of the Ordino Valley, spanning the Valira del Nord river. The bridge is a significant example of traditional Andorran engineering, constructed using local granite and slate without extensive use of mortar to withstand the extreme weather conditions of the high mountains. Originally, it served as a vital crossing for shepherds and traders heading to France via the Arcalís pass. Traces of ancient ironworks can be found near the bridge, indicating the industrial importance of the region in past centuries. Today, the area around the bridge is a popular resting spot for hikers traversing the 'Camí de les Bordes' or ascending to the ski resort. The bridge's architecture harmonizes perfectly with the rugged mountain landscape and the surrounding rhododendron bushes and pine forests. During the spring snowmelt, the site has an impressive spectacle as the river's waters flow with great force beneath the arch. The preservation of this historic structure is part of Andorra's efforts to protect its rural identity.

Nearby cities

Sorteny Valley

A protected natural park with exceptional botanical diversity and hiking trails.

Casa Molines

A historic manor house that is part of a small hamlet near Ordino.

Segudet

A picturesque, quiet village with traditional houses, very close to the center of Ordino.

Pla d'Ordino

A flat, open area near the village of Ordino, used for walks and recreation.

Riu de Tristaina

The river that descends from the famous Tristaina Lakes, flowing through the upper Ordino valley.

Ordino-Arcalís

A ski resort renowned for its excellent snow and freeride opportunities.

Els Plans

A high plateau near El Serrat, serving as a starting point for mountain excursions.

El Serrat

A small village at the end of the Ordino valley, near the Ordino-Arcalís ski resort and the Sorteny Nature Park.

Arans

A small village on the way to El Serrat, known for its traditional 'bordas'.

Llorts

A village famous for its iron mine and the 'Iron Route', which honors the region's iron industry past.

Les Salines

An area in Ordino known for its recreational facilities, such as an outdoor swimming pool.

Sornàs

A small village in the Ordino valley with a charming little church and rural atmosphere.

La Cortinada

Known for its Romanesque church Sant Martí with beautiful 12th-century frescoes, and a nature center.

Ancodina

A small grouping of houses between Ordino and La Cortinada.

More places

Butterfly Meadows Ordino

The flower-rich meadows in the Sorteny Valley are a paradise for numerous butterfly species in summer.

Capercaillie Forests Ordino

The old-growth forests in the Ordino valley are one of the few places in Andorra to find the elusive capercaillie.

Wild Berry Harvesting in Ordino

In late summer, wild raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries can be foraged in the forests and slopes of Ordino.

Tawny Owl in Old Forests

The characteristic call of the tawny owl can be heard at night in the old forests of Ordino.

Sheep and Goat Farms Ordino

In Ordino, there are several small farms that raise sheep and goats for the production of cheese and meat.

Pyrenean Chamois Area Ordino

The rocky slopes around Ordino are a prime habitat for the agile Pyrenean chamois.

Pyrenean Newt Streams

The cold, clear mountain streams of Ordino are home to the endemic Pyrenean brook newt.

Ibex Reintroduction Zone

Ibex have been successfully reintroduced in the Sorteny Natural Park and can now be seen roaming the high slopes.