Coll de Conflent

To the east of Andorra there is an off-road track that leads from the valley of the Rio Noguera up into the Alt Pirineu Nature Park and culminates at an altitude of 2,180 meters at the Coll de Conflent. It is relatively easy to drive on dry ground, but turns into a tricky muddy section when wet. Whatever the weather, the entire route is full of off-road fun.

The route to Tirvia branches off on road no. 510 in the valley of the Rio Noguera. The tiny town rises picturesquely on a hill and can be seen from afar. A turnoff to the left leads out of Tirvia onto a small asphalt road that winds uphill to Farrera in beautiful curves and bends. This is where the gravel section begins. It winds through mixed forest up to the scenic Coll del So (1,915 m), where the entrance to the Alt Pirineu Nature Park is located. With its approximately 70,000 hectares, this is the largest nature reserve in Catalonia. The highest point is the Pico d’Estats (3,143 m).

The track winds its way down behind the Coll del So. No problem in good weather, but quite challenging in rain. Past the charming chapel of Sta. Magdalena, the track descends into a secluded valley on bumpy ground. Continue along a stream, then climbs to the Coll de Conflent. Tough switchbacks, narrow track, packed gravel, great views, great driving fun.

One last look at the mountain panorama, then the track winds its way down towards Andorra in smooth switchbacks. It is now called “Ruta desl Contrabandistes”, the smugglers’ road. In Os de Civis, the off-road fun comes to an end, and the road continues on asphalt via Bixessarri to Andorra.