Sierra de Gredos is an impressive granite massif less than three hours away from Madrid. This stony heart of Spain is a Regional Reserve and encompasses 86,397 hectares of untouched nature and unique wildlife. It is one of the most fascinating wildlife habitats and home to the Iberian ibex, a mountain goat with horns that can grow to an astonishing 75cm in length. This hiker’s paradise not only boasts rich flora and fauna, but also breathtaking mountain landscapes and spectacular features including lakes, dramatic cliffs and gorges, and peaks reaching 2592m (8500 feet). The most famous lake is Laguna Grande located in the middle of Circo de Gredos offers inspiring views over the surrounding craggy mountains. Let a guide lead you to the hidden gems of the area and show you the best that Spain has to offer!
One of the most fascinating wildlife habitats in western Europe
Stunning natural landscape dotted with lagoons, gorges, and crags
Circular route featuring an impressive glacial cirque with five stunning lagoons
Explore the breathtaking nature off the beaten path with a professional local guide! Discover the stunning natural landscapes boasting rich fauna and flora — if you’re lucky, you might even spot an Iberian ibex! This 2-day loop takes you along 24km (15 miles) of impressive gorges, lagoons, and rugged yet beautiful mountain landscape. Get the most of your adventure, sleep under the starry Spanish skies, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Meet your guides around 7:00 AM at your accommodation in Madrid and head to Hoyos del Espino in Ávila. On your first day, you’ll explore the Sierra de Gredos Natural Park over 6 to 8 hours of walking. Enjoy the stunning views over the lakes and cliffs as the sun sets, and relax with your group over a warm meal and drinks. After a challenging day in nature, re-energize in a bivouac where you’ll spend the night in a sleeping bag under the starry sky.
Time: 6 to 8 hours.
Distance: 16,2 km
Elevation: +1.400 m, -710 m
After a hearty breakfast, pack up camp and continue with your hiking adventure. Spend around 3 hours exploring the area before reaching the car. Share a meal with your group in Hoyos del Espino town and head back to Madrid. Estimated time of arrival is 7:00 PM.
Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 7 km
Elevation: +250 m, -420 m
What you get on this adventure:
What’s not included:
Hiking in Sierra de Gredos is most suitable for intermediate to advanced hikers and trekkers. This adventure includes 5 to 8 hour hikes on paths and trails, involving ascents and descents through varied and rocky terrain and carrying a medium weight backpack (from 8 to 10 kg). A good level of fitness is required. The hike crosses rugged mountain terrain, scree sections and occasional easy rock scrambling. Keep in mind, the weather in summer can be very hot and you’ll also be packing a daypack filled with water and other things you’ll need throughout the day.
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
Group sizes and prices:
Hiking in Sierra de Gredos can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements:
If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
To get to Madrid, most people fly into Madrid–Barajas International Airport. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to your accommodation. Madrid is 2.5 hours away from the hiking location.
Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet, whether that’s at the guide shop or a predetermined location. The guide will choose the appropriate terrain dependent on conditions and the ability of the group.
57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity.
We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, guides and the communities they’re travelling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in Sierra de Gredos, Spain, please refer to the Spanish Ministry of Health or the Official Tourism Website of Madrid.
Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!
Secure your place upon booking by paying the full price of the tour. If the tour has not been paid in full in advance, the final reservation has not been made. Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the following cancellation policy applies:
