Andorra on Edge as Rockslides Cut Key Roads and Isolate the Pyrenees
Right now, Andorra is facing one of its most serious access disruptions in years, after powerful rockslides cut off critical road links through the Pyrenees, isolating entire regions and putting pressure on travel, tourism and daily life.
Over the past days, massive rockfalls have forced the complete closure of two major routes on the French side of the mountains. The RN20, the main artery connecting southern France to Andorra through the Pas de la Casa, is shut in both directions after a large-scale collapse buried sections of the road. At the same time, the RD66, a vital connection between Perpignan, the Cerdanya region and the high mountain valleys, has also been closed due to unstable rock masses threatening to fall.
Together, these closures have created a serious bottleneck across the eastern Pyrenees. Drivers are being forced onto long, winding detours that can add three hours or more to journeys. For heavy transport vehicles, the situation is even more restrictive, with authorities banning trucks from secondary mountain roads and redirecting freight through much longer routes via Spain.
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This disruption comes at a critical moment. Winter school holidays are beginning in parts of France and Andorra is in peak ski season. Resorts, hotels and local businesses are already reporting cancellations and supply delays. For border communities, this is not just a tourism issue. It affects workers who commute daily across borders and it complicates the delivery of food, fuel and essential goods.
Officials describe the situation as a perfect storm of geology and weather. Saturated ground, snow and freeze-thaw cycles have destabilized mountain slopes, making inspections dangerous and delaying repair work. Authorities say reopening timelines remain uncertain, with some closures expected to last at least several more days and possibly longer if conditions worsen.
Emergency coordination centers have been activated and economic support measures are being prepared for businesses hit hardest by the isolation. But the message from officials is clear and cautious. Non-essential travel to high mountain areas is strongly discouraged until stability can be guaranteed.
This matters well beyond Andorra. These routes are strategic links between France, Spain and one of Europe’s busiest winter destinations. Their closure highlights the growing vulnerability of mountain infrastructure under extreme weather conditions and raises questions about long-term resilience in alpine regions.
We will continue to follow developments closely, including reopening timelines, safety assessments and the broader economic impact. Stay with us for verified updates and ongoing coverage as authorities work to restore safe access to Andorra and the surrounding Pyrenees.
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