The pretty little European country with no trains or airports - but loved by tourists

Located in the high mountains of the Pyrenees, Andorra is a beautiful little country, between France and Spain, with one of the smallest populations in Europe. The region's history stretches back over a thousand years, with well-preserved Romanesque architecture and a fascinating parliament building called Casa de la Vall.

Known for its world-class ski resorts and charming villages, Andorra is special due to its combination of stunning mountain scenery, tax-free shopping, and a fascinating history. The country also boasts a unique political system, a high life expectancy, and a strong cultural identity centred around the Catalan language and traditions. Approximately 10 million tourists visit Andorra each year, according to Wikivoyage.

But the most interesting fact about this little country? It has no trains or airports.

There are a number of reasons why Andorra doesn't have trains and airports, one being the country's size. Andorra is a small country, the sixth-smallest in Europe, which further limits the space for large-scale infrastructure projects like an airport.

Another reason is simply the country's terrain. Andorra is a landlocked country nestled in the Pyrenees mountains, making the construction of railway lines extremely difficult and costly due to the steep slopes, valleys, and potential for landslides.

However these factors don't stop Andorra from being well connected with their neighbouring countries; they invested into well-developed road networks, efficient for bus and car travel and though the country itself doesn't have an airport it's easily accessible by flying into nearby airports in Spain and France, such as Barcelona, Toulouse, or La Seu d'Urgell, and then traveling by road.

Feasibility studies for an airport were conducted, but technical reports by the Andorran Aeronautical Authority (AAA) found: "The limitations and safety of the project are in doubt, and are important enough not to continue with the project."

Andorra should definitely be on your list of places to visit this year. If you're a skiing lover, the country is renowned for its ski resorts like Grandvalira and Vallnord, offering excellent slopes and facilities. When the snow melts, the mountains offer incredible trails for hiking and mountain biking, with options ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes.

Their main shopping street, Avinguda Meritxell, is a duty-free paradise, particularly for perfumes, cosmetics, watches, and electronics. The reasoning behind this is that, as a microstate, Andorra has lower taxes and different VAT rules compared to its neighbours, Spain and France. This allows for significantly lower prices on many goods.

The country also boasts one of Europe's largest thermal spas, Caldea Thermal Spa, with indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and spa treatments. The spa is known for its unique architecture and natural hot springs. It also offers a variety of indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and relaxation areas, with stunning mountain views. The spa focuses on providing a rejuvenating experience through thermal waters, wellness treatments, and a relaxing atmosphere. One TripAdvisor user went as far as to say: "They are really the most beautiful spas in the world, as many boast".