Exclusive Access to Protect a Prized Natural Area

The mountain road leading from Queralbs to Collada de Fontalba in Girona’s Pyrenees is now limited to 60 vehicles per day under a regulated access scheme designed to preserve the area’s ecological integrity. This restriction, managed by the Ajuntament de Queralbs and enforced within the Parc Natural de les Capçaleres del Ter i del Freser, applies on weekends from late May and runs daily throughout August. Drivers must book in advance and pay a €5 fee per vehicle and day to use the 12-kilometre route, which features 55 curves and rises to an altitude of 2,070 metres. According to local authorities, the measure has already reduced traffic congestion and uncivil behaviour in the area.

The first impression is that it has worked," said Imma Constants, mayor of Queralbs, noting a significant drop in vehicle numbers and associated environmental impact.

A Scenic Route with Strict Rules

The road, unmarked with standard signage and resembling a high-mountain trail more than a conventional highway, begins in the village of Queralbs. It climbs through remote terrain without petrol stations, rest areas or toilets, requiring visitors to be fully self-sufficient. Conditions can change rapidly, including heavy snowfall even in spring. Along the ascent, each curve offers panoramic views of Núria Valley, Ribes Valley and the peaks surrounding Puigmal, the highest summit in Girona at 2,910 metres. The final stretch ends at Collada de Fontalba, a broad alpine pass used as a parking area and starting point for hiking trails, including the route to Puigmal’s summit. Access reservations are required via an online system, and restrictions are in place between 7:30 and 19:30, with some days ending earlier at 13:30. The regulation remains active until 15 October, after which officials will evaluate its effectiveness for future seasons.

Why the Limit?

  • The road was originally built to serve high-altitude pastures near the Puigmal massif.
  • Summer weekends once saw up to 500 vehicles, causing environmental strain.
  • The current cap aims to balance public access with conservation.

The success of similar measures at other protected sites, such as the reduction of incivilities by 70% at Guilleries-Savassona following controlled access, supports this approach. Visitors are encouraged to check availability and book ahead through the official portal: elpuntavui.cat.

Reported by R. Estéban, Èric Pérez, lavanguardia.com, en-bw.topographic-map.com, cronicaglobal.cat.