Driving the winding T-301 road through Coll de Som in Tarragona
Coll de Som is a mountain pass at an elevation of 189 meters (620 ft) above sea level in the Province of Tarragona, Catalonia, in Spain. Traversed by the paved T-301 road through the Serra de Cardó range, the route connects Tivenys with Benifallet along the eastern bank of the Ebro River.
| Road facts: Coll de Som | |
|---|---|
| Location | Tivenys to Benifallet, Baix Ebre, Tarragona (Spain) |
| Elevation | 189 m (620 ft) |
| Road Name | T-301 |
| Length | 12 km (7.45 miles) |
| Hairpin Turns | 15 switchbacks |
| Surface | Paved asphalt |
Where is the T-301 road through Coll de Som located?
The T-301 runs parallel to the Ebro River between Tortosa and Benifallet. The 12-kilometer mountain pass section crosses the southern flank of the Serra de Cardó between Tivenys and the C-12 junction at Benifallet.
What are the driving conditions over Coll de Som?
The 12-kilometer road is fully paved, featuring 15 tight hairpin turns as it cuts along limestone rock faces. While the asphalt surface is smooth, the roadbed is narrow, with steel crash barriers shielding drop-offs toward the river on the outer lane.
What hazards exist on the Coll de Som pass?
Blind switchbacks carved directly into rock cuts restrict visibility, making oncoming traffic on narrow sections the primary hazard. Weekend traffic includes large groups of road cyclists. On the descent toward Benifallet, low gears should be used to control vehicle speed through the continuous 15-turn series to prevent brake pad wear.
Is the road over Coll de Som open year-round?
Yes. Due to its low elevation of 189 meters, the T-301 remains open year-round without winter closures or snow hazards. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 35°C in the Ebro valley, but asphalt conditions remain stable.