Of Andorra And Driving Through The Pyrenees

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What can be said of Andorra, a tiny independent  principality in the Pyrenees between Spain and France?  It has some of the most spectacular scenery. Even in summer, some of the higher peaks are still partially covered in snow, but the landscape must even be more splendid in the winter, which explains all the ski resorts.
Its capital, Andorra La Vella, on the other hand, is quite ugly and disappointing, unless you are into shopping.  Because of its tax-free merchandise, there are shops everywhere selling everything from cheap cigarettes, liquor, jewelry and perfumes.
It all makes Andorra seem like one giant airport duty free shopping mall. Yes, the prices are amazing ( a bottle of Bombay gin is $11) and we did buy our allowed allotment of liquor, but I don't feel the need to ever come back here.
It is kind of sad. One would expect a town, situated in such a magnificent setting, to be a bit prettier.
The photos above are of some of the nicer houses in the old part of town. The newer architecture is rather uninspiring and I did not feel the need to take more photos.

Next stop on this trip is Toulouse, France, a much more beautiful city.