Although driving in Andorra can be an exciting experience, especially in the winter, it also brings particular difficulties. For those not used to such terrain, the country’s narrow, winding roads and sharp turns may be hazardous. Add to that the mountainous terrain, and if you’re not cautious, driving might turn dangerous.

Should you intend to drive from Andorra to adjacent France, be advised that the French Pyrenees’ weather often differs greatly from those of Andorra or the Spanish side. The roads in the Spanish Pyrenees may seem clean and dry on sunny days, but black ice could show up as evening falls and temperatures drop. This occurs when the ice melts during the day and refreezes in the evening to produce slick and dangerous driving conditions. If you have been traveling in warmer conditions, it is advised not to cross into France and to wait for the temperature to stabilize before continuing.

Driving gets especially more dangerous in the winter. To negotiate Andorra’s frozen roads, the law mandates that all vehicles have winter tires or snow chains fitted from November 1 until May 15. Ignoring this rule could lead to a €180 hefty fine. Winter driving calls for more care, thus it’s important to follow traffic signals and speed restrictions. These guidelines are meant to keep you safe on the narrow, twisting roads that, in bad weather, might rapidly turn dangerous.

If you’re not sure about the future weather, staying overnight in Andorra or a nearby town is also a smart idea during the winter. Often more predictable are cold morning temperatures, and the roads are usually safer than they would be should ice develop suddenly in the evening.