Andorra boasts 3 national parks
Understand
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Andorra boasts an impressive concentration of protected natural areas, including three main nature parks: the Sorteny Valley, Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley, and the Valles del Comapedrosa. The Sorteny Valley, the smallest park, covers over 1,000 hectares and is rich in biodiversity with more than 700 plant species, alongside native animals like the Pyrenean chamois and newts. It features educational routes and a botanical garden showcasing endemic Pyrenean flora. The Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley is the largest, covering over 40,000 hectares across multiple parishes, and holds UNESCO World Heritage status as a cultural landscape. It illustrates sustainable human use over 700 years, with traditional mountain structures and guided summer tours emphasizing both nature and cultural heritage. The Valles del Comapedrosa, home to Andorra’s highest peak (2,942 m), is renowned for alpine flora and fauna, including golden eagles and bearded vultures. This park also offers an interpretation center in Arinsal and proximity to ski resorts, combining adventure and natural beauty. Together, these parks showcase Andorra’s commitment to conservation, offering diverse ecosystems, recreational activities, and deep cultural connections to the mountainous environment.
History
[edit]The history of national parks and nature reserves in Andorra reflects the country’s longstanding commitment to preserving its unique mountain environment and cultural heritage. Conservation efforts began in the late 20th century as awareness grew about the ecological and cultural value of the Pyrenean landscape. The establishment of protected areas was motivated by the need to safeguard diverse ecosystems, endemic species, and traditional pastoral landscapes threatened by modern development. The Sorteny Valley Nature Park was created in 1992 as Andorra’s first officially protected area, setting a precedent for future conservation initiatives. Following this, Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2004, recognizing both its natural beauty and the millennia-old human influence shaping the landscape. The Valles del Comapedrosa Nature Park was established to protect Andorra’s highest mountain environment and its distinct alpine ecosystems. Over time, these parks helped shape national policies balancing environmental protection with sustainable tourism and local livelihoods. Today, Andorra’s nature reserves serve as vital refuges for biodiversity, centers for environmental education, and key attractions promoting ecotourism. They embody the country’s integrated approach to managing natural and cultural resources while honoring centuries of human interaction with these mountain landscapes.
Parks & Nature reserves
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1 Parc Natural Comunal de les Valls del Comapedrosa 
Is a protected national park in the western portion of Andorra. It contains the highest point in Andorra, Coma Pedrosa, among other peaks. It is closest to the town of Erts. Established in 2003,
2 Parc Natural de la Vall de Sorteny s a protected national park in the western portion of Andorra. It contains the highest point in Andorra, Coma Pedrosa, among other peaks. It is closest to the town of Erts. Established in 2003,
3 Vall del Madriu-Perafita-Claror Nature reserve
It covers an area of 42.47 km2, approximately 9% of the total area of Andorra, and is part of the second largest watershed basin in Andorra. The isolated valley is recognised as a haven for rare or endangered wildlife, and the undeveloped valley has recently been considered to be the "spiritual heart" of Andorra. It became Andorra's first, and to date its only, UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, with a small extension in 2006.
