Clean-up operation for El Forat de Bernia

THE Bernia mountain range starts in the Marina Baja in Callosa and ends in the Marina Alta in Benissa.

It has an unusual, possibly unique, feature because it is possible to cross the ridge that crowns it via a natural tunnel. This runs north to south from Pinos on the landward side of Bernia and opens out to breathtaking views of the Bay of Altea.

The route there is a favourite with mountain walkers and the tunnel, El Forat de Bernia, was the focus of Altea’s commemoration of the recent International Mountain Day.

But as Altea’s Environment councillor Beatriu Nomdedeu pointed out, too many visitors who have eaten, had something to drink or smoked a cigarette while admiring the view have left unwanted reminders of their outings. 

All of this has an impact on the environment and detracts from the beauty of the landscape, Nomdedeu said.  

Precisely because of this, Altea Town Hall celebrated International Mountain Day with a clean-up of the area. The four 30-litre rubbish sacks that were collected that day should send a clear message to litterbugs, the councillor claimed.

“It’s in our hands to ensure that this does not happen again. For the moment El Forat de Bernia is clean. 

“Rubbish does not come home by itself and the public should dispose of it correctly.  Secondly, if we see someone throwing their rubbish away, we shouldn’t hesitate to comment on it,” Nomdedeu said.  

“Many do this out of habit or because it’s easier. But if we say something, people will start to realise that this is unacceptable and they will take a more responsible attitude,” she added.