Carretera de l'Espluga and Coll de Capafons Mountain Pass Motorcycle Route

The Carretera de l'Espluga - Avinguda de Joaquim Mir is situated in the Catalonia region of Spain, within the province of Tarragona. It crosses the Serralada Prelitoral, also known as the Catalan Pre-Coastal Range, a mountain range that runs parallel to the Mediterranean coast. The road passes through the Barranc de l'Albiol valley and culminates near the city of Reus, located approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) from the route's endpoint. This area is characterized by a mix of mountainous and valley landscapes, providing a diverse riding environment. An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of this article.

The route extends for approximately 32 kilometers (20 miles) and is primarily asphalt surfaced with a quality rating of about 3.9 out of 5, indicating a generally good but not perfect surface condition. The road is mostly two lanes wide (about 98%) and predominantly wide (about 92%), allowing comfortable passage for motorcycles. Curviness is moderate, rated at 1.69 on a scale where 3 is extremely curvy, so riders can expect a mix of gentle bends and some sharper turns. The road passes through inhabited areas for roughly 5.2% of its length, mostly near settlements such as Maspujols and Reus.

Elevation varies significantly, with the lowest point at 197 meters (646 feet) and the highest at 976 meters (3,202 feet), including the mountain pass Coll de Capafons at 936 meters (3,071 feet). The maximum speed limit is 30 km/h (19 mph), reflecting the road's mountainous nature and safety considerations. The route crosses the Barranc de l'Albiol valley and is part of the Serralada Prelitoral mountain range, offering riders a combination of valley and mountain riding experiences.

The Coll de Capafons mountain pass is a key feature of this route, situated at an elevation of 936 meters (3,071 feet). This pass provides a natural crossing point through the Serralada Prelitoral range and is a highlight for motorcyclists seeking elevation changes and varied terrain. The surrounding landscape includes forested areas and open valleys, with the road gently winding through these natural features. The pass is accessible year-round, although riders should be aware of potential weather-related conditions typical of mountain roads in this region.

The road is primarily used for local traffic and motorcycling enthusiasts exploring the Catalan Pre-Coastal Range. It is well-maintained but not without some rough patches, so riders should remain attentive to surface conditions. There are no known tolls or entrance fees associated with this route, but conditions may change, and riders are advised to check local sources for updates. Seasonal closures are not reported, but winter weather can affect mountain passes in this region. The road's speed limit is low, emphasizing safety on the winding and elevated sections.

For more information on road tolls and regulations in Spain, riders can consult official resources such as the Dirección General de Tráfico.

For riders interested in exploring this route, additional information about the Catalan Pre-Coastal Range can be found on Wikipedia. The nearby city of Reus offers amenities and cultural attractions for visitors. An interactive map of the Carretera de l'Espluga and Coll de Capafons route is provided below to assist with navigation and planning.