“Severe measures” proposed to protect Las Grietas

The Cabildo and Tias Ayuntamiento are considering “severe measures” to reduce visits to Las Grietas, following the failure of a scheme to prevent parking in the area.

Earlier this week, Tias Council excavated a ditch to prevent cars parking by the LZ-35 to visit the natural canyons on the side of Montaña Blanca. However, this has just led to cars parking in even more dangerous spots, and a fining campaign by the Guardia Civil has also failed to have any effect.

Apart from road safety, there is also genuine concern that the number of visitors are damaging Las Grietas themselves, with reports showing that erosion in the zone has been increased by visitors, increasing the risk of crumbling or collapse. 

With regard to solutions, “anything is possible”, Tías Mayor José Juan Cruz has said. This may include the complete closing off of the Las Grietas to visitors. An official car park in the La Candelaría area of Tías has also been proposed, with access to Las Grietas possible via existing footpaths.