Canillo Tibetan Bridge: The Most Spectacular Walkway in Andorra
The Canillo Tibetan Bridge is one of Andorra's most spectacular attractions. With 603 meters in length and suspended at more than 40 meters high above the Valira river, this suspension bridge offers a unique adrenaline experience and stunning panoramic views of the Canillo Valley.
What is the Canillo Tibetan Bridge?
The Tibetan Bridge (also known as Tibetan walkway) is a pedestrian suspension bridge that crosses the Canillo valley from side to side, offering spectacular views of the Pyrenees.
Tibetan Bridge Features:
- Length: 603 meters
- Height: More than 40 meters above the Valira river
- Width: 1.2 meters
- Capacity: Maximum 20 people simultaneously
- Crossing duration: 15-20 minutes
- Opening: 2021
- Access: Free
Location of the Tibetan Bridge
The Tibetan Bridge is located in Canillo, one of Andorra's central parishes:
- Parish: Canillo
- Crosses: Valira river valley
- Altitude: Approximately 1,500 meters
- Distance from Andorra la Vella: 15 minutes by car
- Distance from El Tarter: 5 minutes by car
- Distance from Soldeu: 10 minutes by car
How to Get to the Canillo Tibetan Bridge
Starting Point
The main access to the bridge is from the Palau de Gel de Canillo:
- Arrive at the Palau de Gel de Canillo (parking available)
- Follow the signs "Pont Tibetan"
- Walk 5-10 minutes to the start of the bridge
- Cross the bridge (15-20 minutes)
- Return the same way or continue the circular route
By Car
- From Andorra la Vella: 15 min via CG-2
- From El Tarter: 5 min via CG-2
- From Soldeu: 10 min via CG-2
- Parking at Palau de Gel in Canillo
By Bus
Regular bus lines from Andorra la Vella to Canillo. Stop at Palau de Gel.
Schedules and Access
Schedule:
- Open all year round
- 24 hours (lit at night)
- Free access
Restrictions:
- Maximum 20 people on the bridge at the same time
- May close temporarily due to strong wind or bad weather
- Not suitable for people with severe vertigo
- Running or jumping on the bridge is not allowed
Experience on the Tibetan Bridge
Feelings
Crossing the Tibetan Bridge is a unique experience:
- Adrenaline: The bridge sways slightly when walking
- Spectacular views: 360º of the Canillo valley
- Impressive height: Over 40 meters above the river
- Feeling of flying: Suspended in the air
- Photography: One of the best spots in Andorra
Views from the Bridge
- Canillo Valley
- Valira River
- Pyrenees peaks
- Canillo village
- Mountain forests
Tips for Crossing the Tibetan Bridge
1. Check the weather: Avoid days with strong wind or heavy rain.
2. Proper footwear: Sneakers or hiking boots. No heels or sandals.
3. Arrive early: Fewer people in the morning, better photos.
4. Don’t rush: Enjoy the views, don’t run.
5. Bring a camera: Spectacular views for photography.
6. Respect the limit: Maximum 20 people on the bridge.
7. Do not jump or run: For safety and respect for other visitors.
8. If you have vertigo: Look straight ahead, not down. Walk slowly.
Safety on the Tibetan Bridge
The Tibetan Bridge is very safe:
- Robust structure: High-strength steel cables
- Regular maintenance: Periodic inspection
- Railings: On both sides of the bridge
- Non-slip floor: Metal grating
- Signage: Clear indications
- Capacity control: Maximum 20 people
Important: The bridge sways slightly, this is normal and safe.
Tibetan Bridge Circular Route
You can do a full circular route:
Complete route:
- Start at Palau de Gel de Canillo
- Path to the bridge (10 min)
- Crossing the Tibetan Bridge (15-20 min)
- Return trail on the other side of the valley (30 min)
- Return to the starting point
Total duration: 1-1.5 hours
Difficulty: Easy-medium
Elevation difference: Minimal
Best Time to Visit the Tibetan Bridge
Spring (April-June)
Advantages: Nature in bloom, pleasant temperatures, fewer people
Disadvantages: It may rain
Summer (July-September)
Advantages: Better weather, long days, maximum visibility
Disadvantages: More people, it can be hot
Autumn (October-November)
Advantages: Spectacular autumn colors, fewer tourists
Disadvantages: Shorter days, can be cold
Winter (December-March)
Advantages: Unique snowy landscape, fewer people
Disadvantages: Intense cold, possible ice, fewer daylight hours
What to See in Canillo
Besides the Tibetan Bridge, Canillo offers:
- Palau de Gel: Olympic ice rink and swimming pool
- Sant Joan de Caselles: Romanesque church from the 11th-12th century
- Sanctuary of Meritxell: Patron saint of Andorra
- Access to Grandvalira: El Tarter sector 5 minutes away
- Hiking routes: Multiple options
Combine Tibetan Bridge with Skiing
Many visitors combine the Tibetan Bridge with skiing in Grandvalira:
Recommended itinerary:
- Morning: Skiing in El Tarter or Soldeu
- Afternoon: Visit to the Canillo Tibetan Bridge (1-2 hours)
- Evening: Dinner in Canillo or return to the hotel
For skiing in Grandvalira:
Accommodation near the Tibetan Bridge
To stay near the Canillo Tibetan Bridge:
In Canillo
- Hotel Nordic Canillo - 5 minutes from the bridge
- Hotels in downtown Canillo
In El Tarter (5 minutes)
In Soldeu (10 minutes)
- Wide range of hotels and apartments
- Hotels in Andorra for skiing
Other Tibetan Bridges in the Pyrenees
If you like Tibetan bridges, others in the Pyrenees:
- Holzarte Walkway (France): 150m long, 180m high
- Ordesa Bridge (Spain): In Ordesa National Park
- Montfalcó Walkway (Spain): In Lleida
Note: The Canillo Tibetan Bridge is one of the longest and most accessible.
Activities near the Tibetan Bridge
Near the Tibetan Bridge you can enjoy:
- Hiking: Routes through the Canillo valley
- Skiing in Grandvalira: El Tarter and Soldeu sectors
- Palau de Gel: Ice skating
- Cultural visits: Romanesque churches
- Naturlandia: 20 minutes away
- Tobotronc: Longest alpine slide in the world
Frequently Asked Questions about the Tibetan Bridge
How long is the Canillo Tibetan Bridge?
603 meters long, suspended more than 40 meters high.
Is the Tibetan Bridge free?
Yes, access is completely free.
Is the Tibetan Bridge dangerous?
No, it is very safe. It is well maintained and has handrails. It sways slightly but that is normal.
How long does it take to cross?
15-20 minutes walking at a relaxed pace.
Can you go with children?
Yes, but they must be accompanied and not have vertigo. Recommended for those over 8 years old.
Where is the Tibetan Bridge?
In Canillo, Andorra. Access from the Palau de Gel.
Is it open in winter?
Yes, it is open all year, even with snow.
What Else to See in Andorra
Discover what to see in Andorra:
- Grandvalira: Largest ski resort in the Pyrenees
- Migdia Viewpoint: Views at 2,640m
- Caldea: Thermal spa
- Romanesque churches: Cultural heritage
- Tristaina Lakes: Hiking route
Conclusion: Tibetan Bridge, a Must in Canillo
The Tibetan Bridge of Canillo is a must-experience in Andorra. With its 603 meters suspended over the valley, it offers a unique combination of adrenaline, nature, and spectacular views. Accessible, free, and open all year round, the Tibetan Bridge is perfect to combine with skiing in Grandvalira or as part of your sightseeing route through Andorra.
Plan your visit to the Tibetan Bridge! Combine with skiing in Grandvalira, book your ski pass and your ski equipment rental, and enjoy the best of Andorra.
