Sport Hotel Hermitage & Spa ★★★★★

Good things are supposed to come in small packages, which may explain why Andorra, the sixth smallest microstate in Europe, is also one of the continent’s most beautiful and fascinating places. A truly an unmissable destination; the only question remaining is where to stay and when to go! The first is easy to answer – the five-star Sport Hotel Hermitage & Spa is a simply stunning sanctuary of luxury, providing some of the best dining, facilities and views in the whole country, and enjoys a the priviledge of belonging to the ‘Leading Hotels of the World’.

The hotel’s name conjures up ideas of peace, seclusion and wellbeing, all of which are exquisitely epitomised by the eponymous spa. Whether you’re worn out from a long countryside ramble in the sun or an adrenaline-filled day on the slopes, this vast 5000m2 space spread over five floors will have you feeling renewed in no time at all. Aside from the classics such as heavenly massages and Vichy showers, the star of the show is the water circuit, which takes you through plunge pools of different temperatures, massaging jets, open air hydrotherapy bathtubs and other surprises.

The hotel’s main theme of unreserved indulgence is evident through the outstanding cuisine at the two gourmet restaurants, including the star-awarded Ibaya, by Chef Francis Paniego. While both the Glassbar 1.850 (a clubhouse-style chalet specialising in gin and tonics) and the Villager bar (an atmospheric Irish-inspired pub) tantalise the taste buds with morsels of inventive cooking and explosive flavours, the latter is great for continuing the party late into the night.

The return to your room is that much more tempting considering the marvellous Premium Junior Suites offered by VeryChic. Start the day by throwing open your curtains and stepping out onto the balcony, where you are treated to jaw-dropping mountain views. Get ready in the beautiful marble and wood bathroom, which boasts luxurious toiletries, plenty of space and even a gloriously soothing hydro-massaging bathtub. At the end of every unforgettable day, sink into the sumptuously soft Egyptian cotton bedding on your huge king-size bed, with your head on a personally selected pillow…

The answer to the second question then, is whenever you like! Andorra is a fantastic choice of getaway at any time of year, and the Sport Hotel Hermitage is the perfect base from which to discover this underrated corner of Europe. While primarily known as a skiing destination, there is an equal amount on offer in summer, and it should be no surprise why the name of the village, Soldeu, translates as ‘Sun God’ in Catalan. I suppose the only conclusion you can reach is that, to truly make the most of it, you will have to go twice!