Andorra

I haven't been to Andorra, either. But, I've been to Catalonia, and Andorra was close enough that I was seeing highway directional signs to Andorra. Catalonia, Spain, is exceptionally beautiful, and I'd highly recommend. You could use the Barcelona airport, take the one hour train ride to Girona (beautiful and very interesting) and rent a car from there.

I haven't been to Andorra since 1972. Since that time the concept of duty-free shopping has reportedly turned the capital city of Andorra-la-Vella into an ugly outlet mall. But the countryside must still be beautiful. Places I visited in 2016 [edited to add: These are near Andorra, but not in Andorra] that would be worth seeing include the historic town of La Seu de Urgell, the colorful hill town of Puigcerda, the tiny Spanish town of Lluvia surrounded by French territory, and several small villages long the highway running southwest from Puigcerda. I hope our experts on Catalunya will step in with their input on the most beautiful mountain valleys in that area. I know the Vall de Boi has been mentioned in earlier threads.

If you like funky architecture, Barcelona's worth a lot of time. If you prefer smaller places with the accent on medieval architecture, allow at least a full day in Girona before you head for the hills.

A weather warning: The Cerdanya Valley around Puigcerda gets surprisingly hot in the summer. It's near the Pyrenees but gets no cooling effect from altitude.

Small, mountainous, up in the Pyrenees between France and Spain. and most of the population lives in the one main valley that runs from the Spanish border to the French border.
Makes money from tourism, including skiing in winter.
With a population of only 76,000 if you have met a local that is unusual.

Go for it. Staying with a local is the best way to travel.

Thanks so much for the information, all!!

We were actually in Andorra last month after a visit to Barcelona. Andorra la Vella was kind of odd (luxury car dealerships and auto mechanics everywhere) but it’s an absolutely beautiful area. I wouldn’t hesitate to go, especially if you know someone in the area. After all, how many people actually have an excuse to go to Andorra? 😀

Thanks!!! I agree!