Limited access to cave demanded

JOAN SALA, president of the board of the Montgo National Park, has called for limited access to the Cova Tallada.

Located in the Sant Antoni marine reserve between Javea and Denia, the cave is invaded by tourists each summer, putting its delicate ecosystem at risk, Sala maintained.  

“At the very least numbers should be strictly limited as they are in other natural spaces,” he said. Graffiti defaces the rocks, there is an accumulation of rubbish and some members of the public had obviously relieved themselves there, demonstrating their lack of manners and respect for the environment, Sala continued.  

But there was also the safety aspect to be considered, he said, with a record number of rescues this summer.  On one day alone four people found themselves in difficulties, requiring help from the fire brigade, Local Police and lifeguards from Javea and Denia.

The number of accidents was clear proof that the public flocking to the cave via the steep landward path included ‘urbanites,’ who put not only themselves but also their rescuers at risk.