Thrifty Fifty - Lourdes to Andorra

 Day 5 – 216 miles: Lourdes → Andorra

Accommodation: 3rd floor appartment, Andorra de Vella (with underground parking)

Andorra has been a highlight, both metaphorically and physically, being the highest capital city in Europe. Home to only 40,000 people yet welcoming around 9 million visitors each year, it’s an independent principality, a ski resort, a shopping centre, and a stunning country that also happens to benefit from tax-haven status. Perfect for the thrifty fifty tour.

We skipped the miles-long car queue at border control, tucked in with a convoy of motorbikes past a Red Bull drifting competition, and made our way to Andorra la Vella, the capital, where our apartment was near the old town. 

Before long we were chatting with an Argentinian lady with ties to polo, whose husband had a hospital named after him, and enjoying drinks at a bar where ten beverages cost just €25! Perfectly in tune with our theme. Love it.

The day began as the others: up, pack, breakfast at a boulangerie (perhaps our last, since today we leave France), then on the road to cover the 200 miles.

Our route took us along the spectacular Route des Cols, covering seven mountain passes—a perfect ribbon of asphalt twisting across the southern Pyrenees. 

In the words of Paul M: “I don’t want this day to end.” A good sentiment, considering we still had 160 miles to ride in 33-degree heat.

We found respite from the sun’s furnace at a French bistro, indulging in some posh nosh while watching hundreds of motorbikes rumble past in the rally currently underway.

The group remains in good spirits. Paul M is nursing a fuelling issue, Jason made a detour for brake pads, Ken remains his stoic self (despite enduring that plank-of-wood seat), and Paul is wide-eyed at the views, cultures, and fresh experiences each day brings. As for me, i’m grateful they all came, and I enjoy their companionship.