Situated between the provinces of Ávila, Cáceres, Madrid and Toledo, la Sierra de
Gredos reaches an altitude of 2.592 metres. The views are magnificent and it is common to come across iberian goats. Amoungst the many sports you can do in the sierra (mountain biking, horse riding and climbing) you can walk up to the refuge Elola situated beside the Laguna Grande, at 2.000 metres altitude. This mountain refuge made of stone is composed of 3 dormitories which sleep 65 (for those who do not like sharing you can always choose to sleep in the Parador de Gredos!) and allows you to recover. The climb after the parking of Hoyos del Espino until the refuge is well indicated and can be done in about 2 hours. If you wish you can reserve a mountain guide who will take you for a long walk or even to do some climbing. Open between 1st June and 15th October, you must reserve beforehand.Read less -

If you want to breathe fresh air in a lovely environment leave from there to the sierra de Guadarrama, the Monte de San Pedro is an excellent alternative.
Between Madrid and the Sierra de Guadarrama, the summit of this "monte" offers a magnificent 360 degree view. The climb which is not difficult although a little steep takes 1 hour 1/4 and at the summit you will find a little suprise. A book is hidden in a stone box where you can make a wish! The people who have already done it say their dreams were realised! So don't hesitate.
To start off you have to pass the other side of the barrier and take the direction in front of you leaving the stone wall on your left. Climb straight until you reach the summit and to come back make a loop. It's impossible to get lost.Read less -

At the foot of the Pico del Nevero (Puerto de Navafria) between the pines and at an altitude of 1773 metres, you will find the Nordic Ski Centre of Navafria. There you can hire cross country skiis and follow the 14 kilometres of pistes in the middle of the pines. The setting is magnificent and wild. It is difficult to imagine you are only one hour away from the capital! And as we know that after such effort you will need to recuperate, its possible to ask for them to open a shelter and to bring wood to make a roaring fire in the chimney while you have lunch. A fantastic day to look forward to. For those who don't want to cross country ski can hire snow shoes.Read less -

At an altitude of 1,800m the Puerto de la Morcuera is one of the closest place to Madrid where you can sledge, from January to March. Luge and Ski hiking fans love this place as do the children and the views are gorgeous.

When there is no snow, the pass is an idyllic setting for a picnic with friends or family you will find many more beautiful spots along the way. Hikers are not left out as there is a great walk to the summit by just following the ridge line. The walk is easy and it is not uncommon to see a herd of "Cabras Ibericas" (a type of Ibex) at the top.Read less -

This magnificent walk, which is not at all difficult is situated in the heart of the natural park of the Lozoya valley. It runs along the length of the ancient way which the carts took to get from the valley of Lozoya to the port of Morcuera.Read less -