In this article
In this article
The Tristaina Solar Viewpoint, at 2,701 metres above sea level in Ordino-Arcalís, is one of the most spectacular spots in Andorra. From its circular metal walkway you look down over the Tristaina Lakes and several border peaks.
This viewpoint is part of my selection of the best viewpoints in Andorra. In that guide you'll find more options, but this one is worth the trip on its own.
The viewpoint experience
The viewpoint is shaped like a giant sundial, with a metal sphere 25 metres across suspended in the air. Walking along the walkway is an accessible and safe experience: the views open up 360° and on clear days you get a magnificent panorama.
What I liked about it is that the path up to the viewpoint is quite accessible and the views are really lovely. The Tristaina Lakes invite you to stop for a break and, in summer, you can even go for a swim, which adds a lot of magic to the excursion. If you go early in the morning to watch the sunrise, it's beautiful too.
How to get there
In summer the CG-3 road is usually closed to traffic while the lifts are running. In that case you get there with the lifts or on foot from La Coma.
With the lifts
- Tristaina cable car: from the L'Hortell sector up to La Coma (about 10 minutes).
- Creussans chairlift: from La Coma up to the high area (about 15 minutes).
- Final walk: a short, panoramic stretch to the viewpoint (about 15-20 minutes).
Video: the first stretch on the Tristaina cable car
This video shows the first stretch of the journey: the Tristaina cable car from L'Hortell up to La Coma. It's the first lift you need to take to reach the Tristaina Solar Viewpoint. After that you carry on with the Creussans chairlift.
Walking from La Coma, two options
From La Coma you can pick two routes to reach the viewpoint:
Route via the Tristaina Lakes
- Route: La Coma → Estany Primer → Estany del Mig → Estany de Més Amunt → final climb to the viewpoint.
- Estimated time return: about 3 hours (full circuit, relaxed pace).
- It's ideal if you want to combine the lakes and the viewpoint in one excursion.
Direct path (without passing all the lakes)
- Route: La Coma → track (straight line) → final stretch to the viewpoint.
- Estimated time return: about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes.
- The quick option, and the better one if the viewpoint is your main goal.
Prices and opening hours
Lift prices
- Cable car + chairlift pass (return): 22€ per person in high season and 20€ per person in low season.
- Official information with prices and pass options
- Summer offers
Opening hours
- Cable car hours (summer): 8:30 - 17:00.
- Creussans chairlift: last ascent around 3:30pm, last descent around 4:40pm.
- Official lift timetables
Note that timetables and prices can change depending on the season, maintenance or the weather. Check the day-before status before you set off.
Driving up and the road closure
- The CG-3 road that climbs up towards La Coma can be closed to traffic during the lift operating hours in summer. When it is, the alternative is to go up with the cable car or leave the car in the car parks down below.
- If you arrive outside those hours (in the afternoon or evening) the road may be open and let you drive up to the start of the walk, though this can vary depending on the calendar and on any specific regulation on the day.
Practical tips
Planning
- If you want to enjoy the lakes route calmly, book half a day (about 3 hours).
- For the direct route to the viewpoint, a short trip of about 1 to 1h15 is enough.
- Set off early to make the most of the lift hours and avoid the crowds.
What to bring
- Bring trekking shoes, water, a cap and layers of clothing.
- You really feel the altitude and the wind up there.
- Respect the signposting and the protected areas.
- The whole area is a Biosphere Reserve.
Need a place to stay in Ordino?
Find the best hotels near the Tristaina Solar Viewpoint to make the most of your high mountain experience
Born and raised in Encamp, Andorra. In my free time I explore my country and share the best activities, trails and hidden spots that most travel guides don't mention.
