Tor Mountain Co-Owners Clash Over Vehicle Access Limits Near Andorra

Tensions persist among co-owners of Tor mountain in Pallars Sobirà over plans to restrict vehicle access on the unpaved forest track linking the village to Andorra's Port de Cabús.

A group of owners recently attempted to install signs barring passage except for residents and authorised vehicles. The signs, placed at the Tor village exit toward Andorra and the Port de Cabús entry from the Andorra side, vanished the same day they appeared. The community, citing advice from lawyers, describes the decision as supported by a large majority at a late March board meeting. They highlight safety risks on the challenging mountain path, including difficult sections that could lead to accidents and liability claims.

The push to limit access dates back to at least summer 2024, when interest in Tor surged following a documentary series by Carles Porta. Owners also reference a fatal cyclist incident roughly two years ago beyond their property boundaries, as well as guidance from the Consorci Forestal de Catalunya in Solsona. The track, which continues to Alins, draws significant summer traffic from motor vehicles and cyclists amid growing popularity.

Opponents include Pablo Moreno, heir to Cal Palanca, who argues existing signage suffices. Notices already in place—such as one 3.5km from Tor and another at the Port de Cabús access—disclaim owner responsibility for physical or material damage on the private estate and track, while imposing a 10km/h speed limit, prohibiting off-road driving, camping, and littering. Moreno, who rarely joins board meetings but considers himself a Tor resident, has opposed restrictions since 2024. Community sources accuse him of issuing death threats during the signage effort.

Pili Tomàs, who manages Casa Sisqueta restaurant and spends considerable time in Tor, also resists the measures. She views them as lacking full agreement, contrary to ancestors' work to maintain the Andorra route, and driven by personal motives. Tomàs urges using community resources for essentials like electricity and phone service, warning that curbs would hurt her business and others in Alins. Local bar owner Roger Micàs in Alins shares fears that severing the direct Andorra connection would harm the Ferrera valley economy.

Moreno has ridiculed the restrictions with an ironic sign dubbing the group a "Terrorist Group High Mountain," featuring an Andorran flag and armed bear. He advocates open access for environmentally responsible users and speculates involvement by Alt Pirineu Natural Park officials. The board convenes twice yearly, with debates spanning about two years. Owners declined further comment to Andorran media, noting prior coverage in Catalan outlets.