Andorra la Vella, the capital of the principality and its largest town, sits at an elevation of just over 1000m (3280ft). It's surrounded by mountains up to 2400m (7870ft) high. Unfortunately, the town itself is given over almost entirely to the retailing of duty-free electronics and luxury goods.

While it's more likely to recall the clang and clatter of a bustling Asian marketplace than it is the grace and elegance of Europe's grand old capitals, happily not all the vestiges of its 1100 year history have succumbed to the jackhammer.

The town of Encamp has one of Andorra's few museums, the Museu Nacional de l'Automòbil, which exhibits about 100 cars dating from 1898 to 1950 as well as scores of antique motorcycles and bikes. Just a short walk north of town is the Església Sant Romà de les Bons, which dates from the 12th century.

The Romanesque frescoes in the apse are reproductions of the originals, which are tucked away in the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya in Barcelona. Encamp's popular local resorts, Soldeu-El Tarter and Pas de la Casa-Grau Roig, are privy to some of the best skiing in Andorra.

This large public square occupies the roof of the Edifici Administratiu Govern d'Andorra, a modern government office building. Affording romantic views of the valley and mountains, it's a popular local gathering place, especially in the evening.