Encamp Launches Process for Pessons Natural Park Amid Bear Sculpture Unveiling

Encamp has launched the administrative process to establish the Pessons natural park, a long-discussed project aimed at protecting the parish's unique environment while boosting tourism.

The announcement came from Cònsol Major Laura Mas during the inauguration of a giant bear sculpture in the Solanelles area. Titled Petjades Enlairades, the 3.2-metre-tall, nearly two-tonne artwork by Andorran artist Naiara Galdós stands at the Funicamp's arrival point, 2,502 metres above sea level. Officials described it as a new symbol of Encamp's identity, tying into the parish's history and traditions, including the bear dance festival.

Tourism Councillor Verònica Solsona said the sculpture marks progress on broader initiatives, including the natural park. "We've started the procedures," she noted, adding that the park will carry significant tourist weight by highlighting what makes the parish distinctive. The bear sculpture forms part of a new family-friendly cultural route, with 21 emblematic spaces now signposted across Encamp to help hikers identify their locations. Plans call for annual expansions.

Solsona emphasised blending culture and nature to promote sustainable tourism, with the bear as a unifying theme. The parish will introduce merchandise featuring the sculpture's image, such as a branded water bottle, to reinforce Encamp's unique story.

Mas called the event a special milestone that connects the parish's natural and cultural heritage. The initiatives build on existing attractions in Solanelles, like orris, to draw summer visitors via accessible routes from the Funicamp. Further details on the natural park process are pending.