The Camí del Coll de les Cases presents a visually captivating hiking experience, situated within the enchanting terrains of La Massana, Andorra. The road starts just before the town of Arinsal, at a crossroads near Mas de Ribafeta where hikers may easily find parking for their cars. Starting at this point, the road follows the GR 11 designations, marked by horizontal stripes of white and red, and proceeds across the thoroughfare to Les Feixes (CS-510) until the first kilometer is reached. By now a marker marks the start of the Camí de las Cases.
The trail is rated as of moderate difficulty, which makes it suitable for those with a fair degree of physical fitness and hiking experience. Starting the trip from the Coll de les Cases’ gully, it offers a constant and provocative challenge. Then the trajectory turns southward, deftly negotiating a sequence of zigzag patterns from Mas to the Contallops gully. Hikers come upon a conspicuous dry trunk midway along the trail as it climbs, which offers a perfect stop for contemplation.
From this vantage point, the path goes with a more direct ascent and requires about thirty-five minutes of steady climbing to reach the Coll de les Cases pass. Rising 1,504 meters, the pass provides hikers with breathtaking panoramic views spanning the parishes of La Massana and Ordino. This viewpoint offers a unique opportunity to value the peaceful beauty of Andorra’s mountainous terrain.
Following the same path in a downward direction back to the starting point will help one to complete the return trip. Those who wish a more thorough investigation may find their path extended by following the GR 11 trail, which ends in the village of Arans inside the parish of Ordino. Those choosing this extended route should carefully arrange their transportation logistics ahead of their return to Arinsal, especially if they left their cars in that location.
For those who value a thorough interaction with Andorra’s breathtaking natural surroundings, the trail’s location, starting just before Arinsal in the parish of La Massana, makes it easily reachable. From late June to late September is the ideal time for the climb; during this period the conditions at heights above 1,700 meters are especially favorable. Still, depending on the temperature and the type of terrain, the hiking season could last from May to October, so giving some flexibility for one’s travel schedule.
The Camí del Coll de les Cases offers a rich journey across a range of terrain, balancing the excitement of a challenging climb with the calm beauty of wide mountain views. Those who want to explore the peaceful beauty of Andorra’s elevated paths and interact with the natural surroundings will find ideal refuge here.