Trekking in the Sierra de Guadarrama

Photo: Wikimedia Commons · Wikimedia Commons

5 hours – 8 hours

Why go

The Guadarrama gives the capital a real range on its doorstep: the Cuerda Larga skyline, Peñalara's glacial lagoons and granite tors, reachable by train and walked in a day.

When

In season: May–Oct · Peak: Jun–Jul, Sep–Oct

Who it’s for

Skill

Beginner–Advanced

Effort

Moderate

Suitable from

10+ · Kid+

Crowds

Steady

Cost

Trekking specifics

Distance: 22 km
Total ascent: 1000 m
Max altitude: 2428 m
Accommodation: Day walks; valley towns
Technical: Exposed ridge walking; winter is alpine

What to expect

Long, exposed ridge days above the treeline with fast-building afternoon storms in summer and snow in winter. Trailheads at Cotos and Navacerrada are served by public transport.

Routes

What the difficulty bands mean

easy: Accessible with basic fitness; no technical skills or exposure.
moderate: Sustained effort or some exposure; comfort on the terrain expected.

Siete Picos
easy
Granite tors along a forested ridge, the gentlest of the big walks
14 km5 hours
Cuerda Larga
moderate
The long ridge from Navacerrada to La Morcuera, above the treeline all day
22 km8 hours
Peñalara
moderate
The highest summit in the range, past the glacial lagoons
12 km5 hours
La Maliciosa from Barranca
moderate
Steep and direct, the fitness day
11 km5 hours

How to start

Take the train or bus to Cercedilla or Cotos. The Cuerda Larga is a big linear day — arrange the return — while Peñalara is a shorter classic from Cotos.