Andorra's Hidden Gem: Hotel Les Pardines 1819 - Unforgettable Encamp Escape!
Andorra's Hidden Gem: Hotel Les Pardines 1819 - Unforgettable Encamp Escape! (My Honest Review - Prepare for Rambling!)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the beans on Hotel Les Pardines 1819 in Encamp, Andorra. Forget those sterile, cookie-cutter hotel reviews. This is going to be honest. Real. And probably a little chaotic, because that's how I roll. This place… well, it's a vibe. And thankfully, a good one.
Getting There & Getting In: Accessibility… Kinda?
First things first: Accessibility. This is a tricky one. Les Pardines 1819 says it has facilities for disabled guests, and the elevator is a godsend, especially after a day of shredding the slopes or, you know, struggling up the inclines of Encamp (more on that later). But… well, Andorra isn’t exactly known for its flat surfaces. The hotel itself is nestled into a mountainside, so expect some steps and potentially awkward maneuvering. Call ahead and really clarify your needs. They are definitely trying. CCTV in common areas and CCTV outside property are reassuring for safety.
Check-in/out [express/private]: Smooth as butter! They offered both, depending on your preference. I opted for the private check-in and it felt super relaxed.
Rooms & Creature Comforts: Where Do I Even Begin?!
Okay, let's talk about the rooms. My room… well, it was a damn palace. Seriously. Think air conditioning (essential in the summer, I’d imagine), a mini-bar (hello midnight snacks!), and a ridiculously comfortable extra long bed. Which, I'm not gonna lie, I needed after hiking – I swear, my legs were screaming for mercy.
- Available in all rooms: They truly nailed it: Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathroom phone, Bathtub, Blackout curtains (THANK YOU!), Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker (vital!), Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping (my room was SPOTLESS!), Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless (yessss!), Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale (judging my post-ski indulgence!), Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens.
The Wi-Fi [free] was amazing (needed to upload my Insta-worthy ski pics, obviously). I also dug the desk – finally, a place to actually work, not just sprawl on the bed with my laptop precariously balanced on my knees. Big win for the laptop workspace. The soundproofing was top-notch; I didn't hear so much as a peep from the hallway (or the, ahem, enthusiastic revelry of the other guests… or the wind howling outside, I don't know if they're related).
It’s not just about the fancy details. It’s the little touches. The slippers by the bed. The complimentary tea after a long day. The fluffy bathrobes you essentially live in. They even had a scale, which… well, let's just say I avoided it after my second helping of dessert at dinner.
The Spa & Wellness: Oh. My. God.
Okay, this deserves its own freaking paragraph (or three). The Spa, the Sauna, the Steamroom, and the Swimming pool [outdoor] with a killer Pool with view – this is where I became one with the mountain. And yes, I did use the gym/fitness center (once… to take a picture).
I splurged on a massage. Best. Decision. Ever. I'm talking melt-into-the-table, all-your-muscles-turn-to-jelly, bliss. The therapist was phenomenal (I think her name was Elena, my memory fades after deep tissue), and the spa itself was serene and beautifully designed. I could have easily spent a whole week just rotating between the sauna, the pool, and various forms of relaxation.
The outdoor pool was so breathtaking – the view was unbelievable. It has a view! The body scrub and body wrap options beckoned, but in retrospect, I was in pure relaxation mode.
Dining & Drinking: Fueling the Mountain Madness
Now, for the really important stuff: food and booze. The restaurants at Les Pardines 1819 are… legit. They have a buffet in restaurant, a la carte in restaurant and the Western cuisine in restaurant (like you want in Andorra). They also have an Asian cuisine in restaurant option.
The breakfast spread was phenomenal. A breakfast [buffet] that blew my mind and included my favorite: Asian breakfast. I swear, I ate enough to fuel a small army. There was a coffee shop for my caffeine fix. They have vegetarian restaurant options.
The bar was lively, with a happy hour. Nothing is more important. The Poolside bar was perfect for pre-dinner cocktails with a view.
Cleanliness & Safety: Feeling Safe & Sound
In this day and age, safety is paramount. Les Pardines 1819 takes it seriously. They had Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and Rooms sanitized between stays. The staff were trained in safety protocols. They had hand sanitizer everywhere. And for those of a nervous disposition, a doctor/nurse on call is reassuring. I felt genuinely safe and looked after.
Things to Do: Beyond the Slopes
Okay, so you're not just going to sit in your room and eat (though, no judgement, because I almost did). Andorra is all about the mountains, and Les Pardines 1819 is perfectly positioned for hitting the slopes. But even if you aren't a skier, there's plenty to do.
- Fitness center: Didn't use it much, see above.
- Kids facilities: I don't have kids, but they looked well-equipped.
- Massage: Essential.
- Pool with view: Again, essential.
- Sauna: For thawing your bones after a day of adventure.
- Spa: Obvious.
- Steamroom: Like a warm hug for your soul.
- Swimming pool [outdoor]: See above.
Services & Conveniences: Little Luxuries
They really go the extra mile with the services. Air conditioning in public area is great. Concierge – the staff were incredibly helpful, especially with arranging transport. Daily housekeeping – my room was sparkling! Dry cleaning, Ironing service, and Laundry service – for those inevitable post-skiing wardrobe malfunctions. Luggage storage – perfect for pre- or post-adventure freedom. Currency exchange – super handy. Car park [free of charge] (and Car park [on-site]) is huge for a place like Andorra where parking can be a nightmare. Elevator is the MVP.
For the Kids
While I can't personally vouch for it, the presence of babysitting service, family/child friendly, and kids facilities suggests this place is well-equipped for families.
The Imperfections? (Because No Place is Perfect)
Okay, I have to be honest. The hotel is brilliant, but it’s not without its quirks.
- Location: You are up in the mountains. Getting around without a car can be a little… ambitious. Taxi service can be arranged, but factor that into your budget.
- Some Steep Walks: As mentioned before, the terrain is mountainous. Be prepared for some (potentially challenging) walking, especially if you're exploring Encamp itself.
The Verdict: Should You Book?
Absolutely, YES! Hotel Les Pardines 1819 is a gem. It's luxurious without being stuffy, comfortable without being boring, and genuinely welcoming. The spa is worth the price of admission alone. The location is perfect for exploring the mountains. Just be aware of the potential accessibility challenges and embrace the (minor) imperfections - they add to the charm! Prepare to be enchanted.
My Honest Recommendation: Book it. Now. Before I go back and book every room myself.
AND… the persuasive offer!
Tired of the everyday? Craving an escape?
**Hotel Les Pardines 1819 in
Dubai's Most Stunning Downtown Views: Lux BnB Boulevard Point Tower I
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into my chaotic, beautiful, and probably slightly disastrous trip to Hotel Les Pardines 1819 in Encamp, Andorra. Consider this less a pristine itinerary and more a rambling, caffeine-fueled chronicle of my inevitable triumphs and face-plants.
Pre-Trip Angst & The Packing Predicament (AKA "What Really Matters")
Days Before Departure: Oh god, the packing. It’s a performance art, a desperate scramble against the clock and the limitations of my suitcase. I envisioned myself gliding effortlessly onto the slopes, a vision of chic efficiency. Reality? I’m pretty sure half my closet ended up in Andorra. Sweaters I haven't worn in a decade? Check. Six pairs of ski socks? Double check! A book I might read? Absolutely. And of course, I forgot the freaking sunscreen. Idiot.
The Flight Frenzy: Airports. Bless them, and curse them. I’m one of those people who thinks they arrive early, only to find themselves sprinting through security, heart pounding like a hummingbird's wings. This trip was particularly brutal. Delayed flight? Check. Screaming child in the seat behind me? Also a check. The in-flight movie selection? Despair-inducing. Let’s just say I spent most of the flight contemplating the existential nature of airplane peanuts.
Day 1: Arrival, Avalanche of Charm, and the Quest for Wifi (aka "Lost in Translation, Found in Fondue")
Arrival: Okay, Andorra. You're… gorgeous. Seriously. The mountains loom, snow-capped and imposing. Hotel Les Pardines 1819? Picture postcard perfect. Cozy, rustic, with a welcoming lobby that smelled of pine and… hope. I mean, after the flight, I needed hope. A LOT.
The Room: My room! Clean lines, a balcony with an insane view (like, "Instagram-worthy" level) and, most importantly, a bed that looked like it could swallow me whole. I promptly face-planted. Bliss.
The Wifi Woes: Okay, so about the wifi. Or rather, the lack of wifi. Turns out, mountain life is about disconnecting. A little too disconnected for my liking. I spent a solid hour prowling the hotel, phone held aloft like a divining rod, desperately seeking a signal. Then I gave up, drank some local wine (which was excellent), and embraced the digital detox. Surprisingly, it was… nice.
Dinner: Fondue Frenzy! The hotel restaurant. OMG. Let me tell you about the fondue. Warm, cheesy, and utterly, sinfully delicious. I swear, I ate my weight in bread, cheese, and dipped vegetables. My companions were horrified, and I was in heaven. This is what life is about, right? Melted cheese, good wine, and a view that stole your breath.
Day 2: Skiing (AKA "Falling With Style")
The Slope Saga: Confession time. I'm not a skier. A beginner, at best. More accurately, I'm a person who tends to fall down. A lot. The first few runs were a comedy of errors. Me, the skis, and the snow became intimately acquainted. I spent more time on my butt than upright, but the sun was shining, the views were fantastic, and I laughed so much my cheeks hurt.
The Après-Ski Aftermath: Back at the hotel bar, it was time for a victory beer (or maybe two, or three… who’s counting?). The bar was busy with skiers and people having fun. As the night went on, the laughter, and good cheer were infectious. The cocktails flowed, and I even attempted a few clumsy dance moves.
The Emotional Rollercoaster: On the slopes, a moment of pure, unadulterated joy. I actually did it! I skied down a short slope, with minimal falling! Pure elation. Followed by a spectacular wipeout a few runs later. The lows are low, and the highs are high, but that's part of the fun isn't it?
Day 3: Discovering Andorra: Culture, Cafes, and Clumsy Chaos (aka "Shopping, Snow, and Nearly Getting Run Over")
Encamp Exploration: Time to venture out. Andorra is charming. The old town of Encamp is a maze of cobblestone streets and historic buildings.
Shopping Spree: I entered every shop I saw. I bought a weird hat. Later I found out it looked terrible, but it was a reminder of a good time.
More Snow and More Stumbles: As I was walking, I slipped on the ice.
The Emotional Fallout: I realized that I needed to relax and embrace the unplanned turns, both literally and figuratively.
Day 4: Departure – A Blend of Sadness, Satisfaction, and Sausage (aka "Until Next Time, Andorra!")
Savouring the Last Moments: One last breakfast at the hotel (those croissants!), a final glance at the mountains, and a deep breath of crisp mountain air.
The Sausage Incident: Okay, the sausage story. The hotel restaurant served a selection of amazing sausages. I ate three with my last breakfast, and I don't regret it.
The Goodbye Glance: Driving away, I looked back at the hotel and the mountains again. A mix of sadness to depart, a profound satisfaction with the trip, and a feeling that I’d be back.
Final Thoughts (AKA "The Rambling Conclusion")
And there you have it. My messy, imperfect, and utterly unforgettable trip to Andorra. It wasn't a perfectly planned adventure, but it was my adventure. It was a reminder to embrace the chaos, laugh at the stumbles. And, let's be honest, the food.
Green Lake Views & Fast WiFi: Your Dream Ciputat Apartment Awaits!
Alright, Let's Get Messy with Hotel Les Pardines 1819: Your Andorra Escape FAQ (Because Let's Face It, Travel Ain't Perfect!)
So, Les Pardines 1819... Is it REALLY a hidden gem? Or just a well-marketed Instagram trap?
Okay, let's be brutally honest. I came in expecting… well, *something*. And frankly, Les Pardines 1819 delivered. It's *mostly* a gem. Not a blindingly perfect one, mind you. Think of it like a slightly chipped antique teacup – character! Hidden? Well, it's not exactly on the Champs-Élysées. You'll definitely need a car (or a very strong pair of hiking boots!) to get around Andorra, and that drive *up* there to Encamp? Phew! More switchbacks than a nervous squirrel's tail. But the views… the views alone almost make it worth it. Almost. Trust me on this one: the pictures on Instagram *don't* do justice to the actual *feel* of the place. It's… calmer. So, yes, a gem, with a sprinkle of 'rustic charm' (read: some slightly wonky plumbing in my room). I'd say a strong 7.5/10 gem rating.
What's the vibe like? Is it a party hotel? Family-friendly hellhole? Or something in between?
Thank GOD, it's not a party hotel. Honestly, after battling those hairpin turns, the last thing I wanted was a DJ blasting EDM until 4 AM. It's definitely skewed towards the chill. Think fireplace, comfy sofas, the faint smell of pine needles (or maybe that was the cleaning product…?). Lots of couples, some groups of friends, a few families… well, *respectfully* behaved families. I'm talking folks who appreciate a good hike, a decent glass of wine, and a quiet afternoon. It's the kind of place where you can actually hear yourself think (a rare and beautiful thing). The ambiance practically begs you to curl up with a book. (Side note: I *tried* to read. The view kept distracting me. Damn you, Andorra!)
IMPERFECTION ALERT: The 'quiet afternoon' bit? Yeah, that was until my neighbor, bless his heart, decided to practice his trombone at full volume. Around, like, *three in the afternoon*. Seriously. But hey, adds to the character, right? ... Right??
The food... is it all potatoes and cheese, or can you actually find something delicious?
Okay, this is a BIG one. Andorra *does* love its potatoes and cheese. Let's get that out of the way. BUT! Les Pardines' restaurant, which admittedly I was a bit skeptical about, actually delivers. They had a superb, *super* creamy mushroom risotto, and I may or may not have gone back for seconds. And thirds. Don't judge me. I earned those carbs with the hike. The breakfast buffet was good too, with fresh bread, cured meats, and a surprisingly good selection of fruits. (The coffee? Hit or miss, depending on the barista – which is pretty standard anywhere, isn't it?). I wouldn't say it's gourmet Michelin-star dining, but for what it is, and where it *is*, it's actually pretty damn good. Just avoid the temptation to order the *olla aranesa* every single night. Your stomach (and your travel companions) will thank you.
Let's talk rooms. Are they cozy or cramped? And what about the views?
Okay, rooms. Again, a bit of character. I got the one with the balcony, and *oh my god, the balcony*. My room wasn't exactly HUGE, think… comfy-cozy. But it *was* clean. And my bed? Gloriously comfortable. The bathroom was a bit small, and the water pressure occasionally went on strike during peak shower times, that happens, right? The view, though… Seriously, you could sit on that balcony all day (which, let's be honest, I basically did). Mountains, valleys, the tiny little village of Encamp… pure visual bliss. Honestly, I'd have put up with a leaky faucet for that view.
RAMBLE TIME: This reminds me… waking up those first few mornings and getting out on the balcony, wrapped in a blanket with a hot cup of coffee… it was pure, unadulterated *bliss*. Just… *BREATHE*. I wish I could bottle that feeling. Maybe sell it? "Andorra Bliss in a Bottle!" (Patent pending… just kidding... mostly). Anyway, the rooms? Solid, but the balcony? That's what makes it. Pay extra for it. Seriously.
What is the highlight of the Hotel Les Pardines 1819?
Okay, it's not a single thing, it's an experience. And it's *all* about the hiking. Les Pardines is basically a launching pad for some seriously stunning trails. But let me tell you about this ONE hike. I'm not even going to pretend to remember the name (I'm terrible at remembering names, especially after a couple of glasses of wine! and it was a long hike) but it started from RIGHT outside the hotel. So the hike goes to the top of a mountain. It was a hard hike, I'm not going to lie, and by mile 2 I was questioning my entire life. But when you got the top, oh WOW. It was the most unforgettable view I've ever had. I mean, absolutely incredible. You could see for days. I'd say to plan to spend the whole day, and take a packed lunch! I may be biased, because the cafe at the bottom was closed, so my packed lunch was everything. Seriously, if you only do one thing at this hotel, do this hike.
Dealing with imperfections, that's part of the experience, right?
I wish I could say it was all smooth sailing. The internet went down a few times, which, in this day and age, is a bit of a pain. My room key card demagnetized at the most inconvenient moment (clutching a full plate of risotto while attempting to get back in my room... not my finest hour). And yes, the previously mentioned trombone player. These are small things, and they become part of the story, don't they? It's what makes a trip memorable, whether it comes from the hotel, the people, you, or the surroundings.
Would you go back? And is there a better hotel?
Would I go back? Absolutely. Minus the trombone player, I mean. Definitely. The location, the views, the general vibe… it really gets under your skin inCozy Stay Spots
