La Pedriza circular hike in Guadarrama NP
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La Pedriza - from Alltrails




Description
The Pedriza circular hike is a ~10km loop in the Lozoya Valley among the rock formations of La Pedriza (which can be translated as stony area) just north of Manzanares el Real in the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range. Cumulative elevation is 575m and most of the trail is relatively easy but some sections are much more technical and slow-going (and may require the use of your hands). Hikers will be rewarded with views over the Collado de la Ventana, the surrounding mountain peaks, and the Santillana reservoir.
Access & Transport
The trail starts outside the town of Manzanares el Real, you can head to the La Pedriza Visitor Centre to get more information - there is car park next to it. By car from Madrid, head north on the M-607 until Colmenar Viejo and then get on the M-609 followed by the M-608 westward. The journey is 50km long and should take 50-60' depending on traffic. By bus, line 724 from Plaza de Castilla (in Chamartín neighbourhood)
Instructions & Recommendations
Make sure to bring proper footwear with good grip, some snacks, water and sun protection. Note that it is not recommended to do this hike in wet / rainy conditions as the stones get very slippery. This activity can easily be combined with a visit of the town and castle of Manzanares el Real (refer to separate review)
Environmental & Social
Eco-friendly activity. Socially marginally positive as it brings some revenues to the villages in the area
Conclusion
The Pedriza is a very scenic geological feature and walking along the trail is the best way to discover (and feel) the granitic outcrops. In addition, the views are excellent so this is a recommended activity as a day trip from Madrid or, even better, with an overnight stay in the area so that you can also include a visit of the Castle of Manzanares et Real and hike around Peñalara the next or previous day (covered under a separate review)
Key positive
Unusual landscape and enjoyable views over the surrounding mountain range
Relatively quick to get to from Madrid
Key negative
Exposed so it gets hot quickly in the summer
Suitability
Suitable for anybody with a decent fitness level (best for children > 10yrs old). This hike is not accessible for anybody with reduced mobility.
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 50m
est. visit time:3h 30m
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo