Nature

Vall Alta de Serradell – Serra de Sant Gervàs

Information

• General information:

  The Vall Alta de Serradell – Serra de Sant Gervàs protected natural area is an outstanding orographic group that represents the westernmost inland pre-Pyrenean mountain ranges in Catalonia. This area is of special interest due to its contact with the mountains of Alta Ribagorça, the last extensions of the axial Pyrenees, from which it is separated by the Llevata valley.

  The Serra de Sant Gervàs is made up of a limestone system with a certain tectonic complexity and peaks that exceed 1,800 meters in altitude. The southern and southwestern slopes feature steep slopes and spectacular cliffs, while the northernmost slopes are much gentler.

  The landscape is mostly Mediterranean, with an important presence of dry oak groves of Martinenc oak. Also noteworthy are the boxwoods, which occupy large areas and constitute the dominant vegetation. In the shades and in the highest parts there are some Central European and subalpine species, which increase the natural and landscape diversity of the area.

  As for the fauna, the species associated with the rocky cliffs stand out in particular, such as various scavenger birds of prey and corvids. In these environments there are also some unique invertebrates, such as the endemic mollusc Xeroplexa ripacurcica.