Driving the defiant N-260 through Congosto de Janovas, the narrowest National Road in Spain
Nestled in the Pyrenees of Aragon, the Congosto de Jánovas is a dramatic and scenic canyon carved by the Ara River. Famous for its narrow, twisting road and breathtaking views, this stretch of the N-260 is not only a challenge for drivers but also a fascinating example of history shaping infrastructure. The canyon’s unique geography and the story behind the road make it one of Spain’s most memorable drives.
Where is Congosto de Jánovas?
The canyon, carved by the Ara River, is located in Sobrarbe comarca, in the autonomous community of Aragon, in the northwestern part of the country, within the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park.
Why is the N-260 Road that runs through the Congosto de Jánovas canyon so narrow?
The N-260 through the Congosto de Jánovas is unusually narrow because of a long-abandoned reservoir project. Back in the 1960s and 1970s, authorities planned to build a dam on the Ara River, which would have flooded the canyon and the nearby villages, including Jánovas itself. Since the road and the surrounding settlements were destined to disappear underwater, there was no incentive to improve or widen it at the time. However, the reservoir was never constructed due to local opposition, environmental concerns, and bureaucratic delays. As a result, the road remains narrow today, a relic of a plan that never came to fruition. The road is locally known as Ruta del Retrovisor (Rearview Route).
Is the road through Congosto de Jánovas paved?
Tucked away in the Pyrenees mountain range, the road through the gorges is fully paved. It’s called N-260 (Eje Pirenaico). It’s totally impassable for two large vehicles at the same time. Not recommended if you don’t know how to reverse. It’s the narrowest national road in Spain. Summer time is a nightmare with thousands of tourists. With hundreds of turns, tunnels, and steep sections, the road features a high risk of rock slides. The speed limit is 40 km/h.
How long is the road through Congosto de Jánovas?
The old narrow uneven road follows the Ara river valley for 19.5 km (12.11 miles), running west-east from Fiscal to Boltaña. Along the way, it’s worth stopping at Mirador de Jánovas, a natural viewpoint offering stunning views of the gorges.