Hundreds Gather in Andorra's Port del Cabús for Cloudy Solar Eclipse Viewing

Hundreds gathered at Port del Cabús on Wednesday evening for a solar eclipse viewing event, filling the mountain pass despite thickening clouds that threatened clear views of the phenomenon.

From 6pm, groups arrived by bus, on foot from Coll de la Botella, or during vacations, creating a lively atmosphere with music, food trucks, and photography. Initial sunshine gave way to overcast skies, leaving attendees uncertain about witnessing the Moon's obscuration of the Sun. Starlight instructor Jordi Colell noted the lack of wind might keep clouds stationary, expressing doubt over visibility but hoping for luck.

Reactions varied among participants. Álex, attending his first eclipse, held onto hope despite low expectations and poor weather forecasts. Edgar voiced disappointment, having anticipated a once-in-a-lifetime sight, while sitting glumly on the grass. Others stayed optimistic: Antoni said the event's vibe made it worthwhile even without a view, and Marc, who hiked up, shrugged that missing it would not matter since he had no prior experience.

The animated setting persisted regardless, with attendees planning to dine on-site amid the music. Interest waned for a later meteor shower, as many like Edgar and Marc cited work or late descents as reasons to leave early.

Elsewhere in Ordino Arcalís, around 100 people ascended via the Creussans chairlift to the Tristaina viewpoint for a separate organised watch. Clouds similarly hindered the maximum phase there, though participants valued the shared high-altitude experience. No disruptions occurred at either site.