Andorra

Andorra was created in the 8th century when Charlemagne, the Roman Emperor and King of France, granted the Andorrans independence in return for their promise to join France and fight against any Moorish armies trying to invade through the Pyrenees from the south.

Nowadays, Andorra relies largely on tourism and its status as a tax-haven. The rugged mountain scenery is breathtaking and the two main ski resorts, having undergone huge redevelopment in recent years, are first-class winter sports destinations for school ski trips.

Development continues apace, yet with one main road and only three secondary roads in the entire principality, it’s still easy to get off the beaten track and back to nature.