Refuge de l’Illa – a hideaway nestled in the heart of the mountains with panoramic views over the wild Pyrenees
Pyrenees // Andorra

Refuge de l’Illa, a sizeable mountain hut, is located 2,488 metres above sea level near Lake Illa and the Madriu Perafita Claror Valley.

As part of a project to restore and develop mountain huts in the Pyrenees, subsidised by the government of Andorra, the house was converted into an attractive tourist resort in the midst of a picturesque landscape shaped by diverse microclimatic influences. Forests, lush meadows with sheep grazing on them, an abundance of water and intact flora and fauna are typical for this region, which has preserved its unique identity in the interplay between humankind and nature reflecting rural history and lifestyles.

In 2004, the Madriu Perafita Claror Valley was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As a starting point or destination in the very heart of an extraordinary mountain landscape, Refuge de l’Illa attracts ambitious outdoor enthusiasts all year round. No wonder guided tours are offered on more than 100 kilometres of highly varied hiking paths, skiing and mountain bike trails in the great outdoors.

The refuge boasts six cosy rooms which sleep up to 50 people and an apt number of bathrooms. Excellent local cuisine is served in a large guest area. After a day of excitement and adventure, you can find rest and relaxation on the sun terrace of Refuge de l’Illa offering wonderful views of the landscape and spectacular sunsets.

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Project: Refuge de l’Illa
Location: Andorra
Architects: Arteks Arquitectura, Ginjaume Arquitectura i Paissatge
Photographer: Pol Viladoms