Walking in the Sierra de Gredos
From Spain to Spain
Visiting:
Spain
Tour Operator: Headwater
Prices From:
Tour Overview
The Sierra de Gredos is little known, yet it offers some of the finest walking in Spain - from gentle strolls through flower-filled meadows to high level hikes amid mountainous peaks, waterfalls and lagoons. Excellent hotel serving superb regional cuisine.
Places You'll See
Countries:
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Hoyos del Espino
Arrive at El Milano Real, your luxurious base for the next 7 nights, tucked away in the northern foothills of the Sierra de Gredos. Before dinner you will be welcomed with a glass of champagne and have the opportunity to discuss your week's walking options.
Day 2: The Seven Springs Walk 14km/9mi/4hr
A pine carpeted track takes you first to the peaceful River Tormes then, ascending gently past wild strawberries and pink crocus, you enjoy incredible 360 degree views of the jagged Gredos mountains. Ibex cluster in the luscious pastures peppered with springs and fountains.
Day 3: La Laguna Grande 13km/8mi/4.5hr
This magnificent walk takes you up to the impressive Laguna Grande set between the majestic Morezon and Almanzor peaks - the latter being the highest in the Gredos at 2,592m. The wild and dramatic glacial bowl is a fantastic picnic spot - look out for sure footed ibex silhouetted against the skyline. Above, red kites and huge griffon vultures soar on the thermals.
Day 4: Navarredonda 9km/6mi/2.5hr or 16km/10mi/4.5hr
A great day for enjoying the diverse landscapes of the Northern Gredos. Weave your way across the broom-covered hillsides with long distance views to tiny white villages nestled in the vines. There are shady pine woods, and flower-filled meadows where black Avila cattle graze as you pass to reach idyllic picnic spots by the river.
Day 5: Optional visits to Avila or Salamanca
We've left today free for independent exploring, however we strongly recommend the 50 minute drive to the historic Spanish city of Avila, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Set against a backdrop of the Gredos Mountains, this walled city - many sections of the walls are still intact - dates back to the 11th century, and its 87 towers and 9 gates are the most complete in Spain. Alternatively, Salamanca, is arguably the country's most graceful city with its dual Gothic and Romanesque cathedrals, and is just 90 minutes away.
Day 6: The Morezon 13km/8mi/3.5hr or 14km/9mi/4.5hr
If the skies are clear today, you'll feel you can see forever! It's not unusual to have 70km views south all the way across the plain to the Toledo Mountains - especially if you climb to the top of the Morezon (2389m). A real 'on top of the world' experience shared only with wild goats!
Day 7: Waterfalls and Meadows 14km/9mi/3.5hr or 16km/10mi/4hr
If you choose to stay close to home, today's relaxed walks explore the valley of the River Tormes. Look out for dippers as you amble past stunning waterfalls and through the shady forests and alpine meadows reminiscent of Switzerland. Alternatively we provide a selection of walks in the southern Gredos, just a 45-minute drive away.
Day 8: Leave Hoyos del Espino
Arrive at El Milano Real, your luxurious base for the next 7 nights, tucked away in the northern foothills of the Sierra de Gredos. Before dinner you will be welcomed with a glass of champagne and have the opportunity to discuss your week's walking options.
Day 2: The Seven Springs Walk 14km/9mi/4hr
A pine carpeted track takes you first to the peaceful River Tormes then, ascending gently past wild strawberries and pink crocus, you enjoy incredible 360 degree views of the jagged Gredos mountains. Ibex cluster in the luscious pastures peppered with springs and fountains.
Day 3: La Laguna Grande 13km/8mi/4.5hr
This magnificent walk takes you up to the impressive Laguna Grande set between the majestic Morezon and Almanzor peaks - the latter being the highest in the Gredos at 2,592m. The wild and dramatic glacial bowl is a fantastic picnic spot - look out for sure footed ibex silhouetted against the skyline. Above, red kites and huge griffon vultures soar on the thermals.
Day 4: Navarredonda 9km/6mi/2.5hr or 16km/10mi/4.5hr
A great day for enjoying the diverse landscapes of the Northern Gredos. Weave your way across the broom-covered hillsides with long distance views to tiny white villages nestled in the vines. There are shady pine woods, and flower-filled meadows where black Avila cattle graze as you pass to reach idyllic picnic spots by the river.
Day 5: Optional visits to Avila or Salamanca
We've left today free for independent exploring, however we strongly recommend the 50 minute drive to the historic Spanish city of Avila, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Set against a backdrop of the Gredos Mountains, this walled city - many sections of the walls are still intact - dates back to the 11th century, and its 87 towers and 9 gates are the most complete in Spain. Alternatively, Salamanca, is arguably the country's most graceful city with its dual Gothic and Romanesque cathedrals, and is just 90 minutes away.
Day 6: The Morezon 13km/8mi/3.5hr or 14km/9mi/4.5hr
If the skies are clear today, you'll feel you can see forever! It's not unusual to have 70km views south all the way across the plain to the Toledo Mountains - especially if you climb to the top of the Morezon (2389m). A real 'on top of the world' experience shared only with wild goats!
Day 7: Waterfalls and Meadows 14km/9mi/3.5hr or 16km/10mi/4hr
If you choose to stay close to home, today's relaxed walks explore the valley of the River Tormes. Look out for dippers as you amble past stunning waterfalls and through the shady forests and alpine meadows reminiscent of Switzerland. Alternatively we provide a selection of walks in the southern Gredos, just a 45-minute drive away.
Day 8: Leave Hoyos del Espino
Single Supplement
Add 31 per night for sole occupancy of a double room.
Meals
All gourmet breakfast and one evening meal
Accommodation
Hotel El Milano Real (5 star equivalent)
The Hotel El Milano Real is a beautiful 21-room hotel situated in the tiny village of Hoyos del Espino in the north of the Sierra de Gredos regional park. Each of the rooms at the hotel is individually styled, and all have en-suite facilities, satellite television, direct dial telephones, minibar and hairdryers. Headwater guests are allocated the standard rooms, which are beautifully decorated. It is possible to upgrade to a suite for a supplement. There is a wellness spa next door to the hotel and Headwater guests receive a 15% discount.
The Hotel El Milano Real is a beautiful 21-room hotel situated in the tiny village of Hoyos del Espino in the north of the Sierra de Gredos regional park. Each of the rooms at the hotel is individually styled, and all have en-suite facilities, satellite television, direct dial telephones, minibar and hairdryers. Headwater guests are allocated the standard rooms, which are beautifully decorated. It is possible to upgrade to a suite for a supplement. There is a wellness spa next door to the hotel and Headwater guests receive a 15% discount.
Travel
British Airways Heathrow to Madrid 09:15/12:40 and car hire (Europcar Group B air-conditioned hire car). Drive to hotel, 1 hr 50 mins. Return: Drive to airport, 1 hr 50 mins then British Airways Madrid to Heathrow 12:20/13:50.
