Parque Regional de la Sierra de Gredos
Parque Regional de la Sierra de Gredos
Parque Regional de la Sierra de Gredos
4.5
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
221 reviews
Excellent
160
Very good
54
Average
3
Poor
1
Terrible
3
David G
Hoyo de Manzanares, Spain60 contributions
Aug 2020 • Couples
Have visited the Gredos many times. Love it! Beautiful scenery, not too many people, excellent birding, stunning night skies, etc.
Very relaxing as well.
However, facilties are very limited, so prepare before you come! And it can still be hot.
Very relaxing as well.
However, facilties are very limited, so prepare before you come! And it can still be hot.
Written August 26, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
JAVA1977
Madrid, Spain170 contributions
Sep 2011 • Couples
Gredos Mountains is an ideal place for lovers of trekking and hiking. In spring the roads are passable and has spectacular views. In winter it is necessary to use specific material mountain and ice axes, crampons, ...
After spending the night in the parking lot of the platform, woke up early on Saturday morning at 7 am and began the ascent of Pico Almanzor (2592m). First you must get to the Laguna Grande after 2 hours of hiking on well marked paths. If you're lucky you can observe the local wildlife Gredos goats in their natural habitat.
Once you reach the Laguna Grande, there is a refuge where to relax, take a hot drink or even spend the night (advance booking is strongly recommended through the web).
Very near the shelter and the Laguna Grande, there is a gap lower, with water from glaciers called Laguna Esmeralda. A great place to cool off and take a breather.
The second part of the trek is harder. The trail becomes much steeper with many unstable rocks that can make you slip and fall. From the Laguna Grande to the Pico Almanzor there are approximately another 2 hours of hard climb so you should avoid the hottest hours of the day to avoid fainting. The trail is well marked and there is usually enough people so it is hard to miss.
Reaching the capstone of the peak requires a last effort, a small climbing wall as no specific material and a small ravine that requires your full attention be alert and careful.
The views from the top of Pico Almanzor are spectacular on clear days. You can see all the "Circo de Gredos" in its glory including part of the Laguna Grande.
During the descent should be careful where you step, to avoid rock falls and accidents.
It should be remembered that we are talking about hiking in the mountains, so fitness is required (it took us 11 hours round trip), so as to know their own personal limitations always remembering that the mountain is stronger than us (this summer has been one fatality in this same excursion): sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, plenty of water, proper footwear ...
Definitely a wonderful experience for nature lovers and adventure tourism located 60 km from Avila and about 200 km from Madrid. To end the day you can enjoy the delicious cuisine that offers all the Tietar Valley.
After spending the night in the parking lot of the platform, woke up early on Saturday morning at 7 am and began the ascent of Pico Almanzor (2592m). First you must get to the Laguna Grande after 2 hours of hiking on well marked paths. If you're lucky you can observe the local wildlife Gredos goats in their natural habitat.
Once you reach the Laguna Grande, there is a refuge where to relax, take a hot drink or even spend the night (advance booking is strongly recommended through the web).
Very near the shelter and the Laguna Grande, there is a gap lower, with water from glaciers called Laguna Esmeralda. A great place to cool off and take a breather.
The second part of the trek is harder. The trail becomes much steeper with many unstable rocks that can make you slip and fall. From the Laguna Grande to the Pico Almanzor there are approximately another 2 hours of hard climb so you should avoid the hottest hours of the day to avoid fainting. The trail is well marked and there is usually enough people so it is hard to miss.
Reaching the capstone of the peak requires a last effort, a small climbing wall as no specific material and a small ravine that requires your full attention be alert and careful.
The views from the top of Pico Almanzor are spectacular on clear days. You can see all the "Circo de Gredos" in its glory including part of the Laguna Grande.
During the descent should be careful where you step, to avoid rock falls and accidents.
It should be remembered that we are talking about hiking in the mountains, so fitness is required (it took us 11 hours round trip), so as to know their own personal limitations always remembering that the mountain is stronger than us (this summer has been one fatality in this same excursion): sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, plenty of water, proper footwear ...
Definitely a wonderful experience for nature lovers and adventure tourism located 60 km from Avila and about 200 km from Madrid. To end the day you can enjoy the delicious cuisine that offers all the Tietar Valley.
Written October 7, 2011
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
YvesRince
Steinfort, Luxembourg189 contributions
May 2012 • Couples
Far from the hustle and bustle of Tourism, the Sierra de Gredos is in easy reach of the main cities of Madrid and Toledo to be visited on a sunny day. Landscapes, castles and wildlife (a capricorn crossing our path) are to be seen. Take your time and drive on the small roads.
Written July 15, 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Martin G
Kendal109 contributions
May 2016 • Couples
We were the only people visiting this Parque in mid May - not surprising as the weather was atrocious! The car park was unstaffed and therefore free. Driving sleet and strong, cold winds make this an experience not for the casual visitor, unless the sky is blue and the weather balmy: remember you are at much higher altitude than anywhere in the UK. Having said that, the nature and topography are great, and the form of the Iberian Ibex that is endemic to the Sierra de Gredos is very easily seen by the entrance road and car park.
Written May 11, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Steve L
Javea, Spain211 contributions
Aug 2015 • Couples
We started off from La Platforma where there was adequate parking and paying the 2.50€ entry fee at the barrier, some way away from the parking area, not worth trying to avoid it. We set off with 1.5 liters of water each, all of which were consumed prior to arriving back at La Platforma some 3.5 hours later.
If you are just visiting do not think about doing this walk without a camera as you will be so frustrated at not being able to record some amazing sites and views. The walk can be strenuous at times and during our ascent, it was also being undertaken by some serious hikers with all the necessary equipment, walkers out for some fresh air, dog walkers and some seriously fit runners who made it look so easy when they disappeared over the horizon in front of us, only for us to reach that point and see a new horizon in front of us again.
In the main it is a stone path with no shade so at least trainers would be the order of the day along with a small back pack if possible with a snack if you intend to go all the way to the Laguna Grande, we did this walk in August and during a drought so the Laguna Grande was more 'Laguna Pequena' which we could see from the top of the climb so cancelled that idea.
However we managed to see Golden Eagles, Kestrals, Peregrine Falcons, Kites and the Spanish Ibex, which for some reason the locals were totally indifferent to as to them it's simply a Mountain Goat.......
There are also a number of Cattle grazing freely, all of whom have bells attached to them and a constant ringing in their ears, they never gave us any concern but when a large dog off the lead approached them and started to enforce his will on them, they decided the mountain was theirs and after a small display of "go away you are irritating us" they only ever saw the rear end of that dog again.......
If you are just visiting do not think about doing this walk without a camera as you will be so frustrated at not being able to record some amazing sites and views. The walk can be strenuous at times and during our ascent, it was also being undertaken by some serious hikers with all the necessary equipment, walkers out for some fresh air, dog walkers and some seriously fit runners who made it look so easy when they disappeared over the horizon in front of us, only for us to reach that point and see a new horizon in front of us again.
In the main it is a stone path with no shade so at least trainers would be the order of the day along with a small back pack if possible with a snack if you intend to go all the way to the Laguna Grande, we did this walk in August and during a drought so the Laguna Grande was more 'Laguna Pequena' which we could see from the top of the climb so cancelled that idea.
However we managed to see Golden Eagles, Kestrals, Peregrine Falcons, Kites and the Spanish Ibex, which for some reason the locals were totally indifferent to as to them it's simply a Mountain Goat.......
There are also a number of Cattle grazing freely, all of whom have bells attached to them and a constant ringing in their ears, they never gave us any concern but when a large dog off the lead approached them and started to enforce his will on them, they decided the mountain was theirs and after a small display of "go away you are irritating us" they only ever saw the rear end of that dog again.......
Written August 15, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Mercedes L
Madrid, Spain119 contributions
Jul 2013 • Friends
This hike was very beautiful. It was hot and completely exposed but still a nice trail. I noticed most people had hiking boots but I wore Nike Free's and they were adequate for the trail conditions. It was lovely to see the cows and goats along the trail. This hike starts at plataforma and takes about 5 hours roundtrip
Written July 8, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Miguel B
Community of Madrid, Spain32 contributions
Nov 2016 • Family
Even if you have travel all around the Globe, Gredos will be one of the places in your memory.
Being born in Madrid, since I was a child I have always visited Gredos. This place is one of the most astonishing Natural Parks. You will never regret when you come and visit. It's not just the biodiversity, the spectacular scenery, the suggesting landscapes. What really most impress you is its personality, its character.
Also this environment offer you many diverse activities. From observing stars, bird watching, hiking, horse riding, rock climbing, fishing, hunting... you will meet amazing sober Castilians characters and one of the best places to eat.
Accommodation and food facilities are excellent quality and cheap.
As an outdoors lover I will strongly recommend this place. You must not miss.
Being born in Madrid, since I was a child I have always visited Gredos. This place is one of the most astonishing Natural Parks. You will never regret when you come and visit. It's not just the biodiversity, the spectacular scenery, the suggesting landscapes. What really most impress you is its personality, its character.
Also this environment offer you many diverse activities. From observing stars, bird watching, hiking, horse riding, rock climbing, fishing, hunting... you will meet amazing sober Castilians characters and one of the best places to eat.
Accommodation and food facilities are excellent quality and cheap.
As an outdoors lover I will strongly recommend this place. You must not miss.
Written November 14, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Stephen W
London, United Kingdom15 contributions
Sep 2016 • Couples
Superb scenery on largely deserted roads. We enjoyed a day simply driving around and through the parquet. Plenty of little places to stop off and admire the views.
Written October 17, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Trevor D
Brighton34 contributions
Sep 2015 • Couples
We drove (1 ½ hours) from Salamanca to the parking base spot. Once you leave the car park you don’t set foot on flat steady ground tip you return, it’s all granite and other rocks beyond my limited knowledge. It has a dramatic, sometimes bleak beauty of expansive ruggedness (not a word that applies to me). It took around 2 ½ hours of steady but not speedy walking to reach the refuge.
The refuge, by the Laguna Grande, looked from a distance like a setting for a horror film, but inside it wasn’t so grim. It was only 14e per night and by fortune a dorm to ourselves. The only horror could have been the lack of toilet or washing facilities. The weather meant the outdoor shower wasn’t going to be used. If you wanted ’to go’, you just go. Liberating really. It takes around 2 ½ hours from the refuge to the top of Almanzor, then another 2 hours or so back.
On the way up we encountered hail, rain (unpredictable weather is expected) and mountain goats, my partner encountered my pathetic moans. I’d expected to be able to walk to the top not as it happens, to climb and clamber up the rocks with my hands for the last hour or so. The weather and light wasn’t favourable nor was my fear of heights and climbing ability, I’ve not climbed more than a ladder before. I felt emasculated as metres from the top my fear took hold and I watched my partner reach the peak. For hiker-types like me it may be tricky, especially on a bad day, you could easily hurt yourself or get lost, for climbers, no doubt a breeze.
Go for it’s ‘accessible’ remoteness and stark beauty, plus a little challenge. I'd recommend walking to the refuge, staying the night then climbing to the top in the morning. Walking from the car park to the top then back in a day would be a tough 9/10 hours.
The refuge, by the Laguna Grande, looked from a distance like a setting for a horror film, but inside it wasn’t so grim. It was only 14e per night and by fortune a dorm to ourselves. The only horror could have been the lack of toilet or washing facilities. The weather meant the outdoor shower wasn’t going to be used. If you wanted ’to go’, you just go. Liberating really. It takes around 2 ½ hours from the refuge to the top of Almanzor, then another 2 hours or so back.
On the way up we encountered hail, rain (unpredictable weather is expected) and mountain goats, my partner encountered my pathetic moans. I’d expected to be able to walk to the top not as it happens, to climb and clamber up the rocks with my hands for the last hour or so. The weather and light wasn’t favourable nor was my fear of heights and climbing ability, I’ve not climbed more than a ladder before. I felt emasculated as metres from the top my fear took hold and I watched my partner reach the peak. For hiker-types like me it may be tricky, especially on a bad day, you could easily hurt yourself or get lost, for climbers, no doubt a breeze.
Go for it’s ‘accessible’ remoteness and stark beauty, plus a little challenge. I'd recommend walking to the refuge, staying the night then climbing to the top in the morning. Walking from the car park to the top then back in a day would be a tough 9/10 hours.
Written October 14, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Clive H
Oxford, England, United Kingdom88 contributions
Oct 2014
Stunning scenery in the centre of Spain. This is the place to go in Spain if you want nature at its finest. green and verdant in Spring with wildflowers and fast rivers and streams every where.
Written June 11, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Agradecería mucho que alguien me dijera en que lugar, al pie de una senda de la Sierra de Gredos se encuentra un pequeño montículo con una cruz y una vitrina que contiene una imagen religiosa. Mandaría una foto pero no veo que sea posible.
Muchas gracias.
Quería ir a la plataforma, estoy en Ávila. De nieve me supongo que no habrá nada? Y para ir desde Ávila cual es la mejor ruta....
MolineteCastro
Valencia, Spain221 contributions
En la ruta del circo de Ávila vas a tener nieve seguro en casi la totalidad del camino(excepto los primeros metros) a no ser, que desde ayer se haya derretido una gran cantidad que lo dudo. Hay un espesor importante y sobre todo si bajas a la laguna grande. Recomiendo botas, crampones y polainas si vas a bajar a refugio y laguna. Hasta el circo nosotros lo hicimos tranquilamente. pero aconsejo llevar calcetines de repuesto 😉.
La ruta desde Avila en google u otra app, puedes indicar que la población destino para subir a la plataforma es Hoyos del Espino (muy bien señalizado).
DANMY ADRIÁN V
7 contributions
Hola ¿quería saber cómo puedo llegar desde Talavera?
No dispongo de coche así que me tocara acercarme en bus a : Arenas De San Pedro o Candelada.
¿Cuál es mejor?
Quisiera ver la Laguna y terminar en el Almanzor.
Antipática
Escalona, Spain193 contributions
Sin coche desgraciadamente es prácticamente imposible puede ser que haya algún autobús que conduce por la sierra pero lo veo difícil también puede ser que existan viajes organizados al Circo de Gredos oa la zona lo siento
DANMY ADRIÁN V
7 contributions
Hola ¿quería saber cómo puedo llegar desde Talavera?
No dispongo de coche así que me tocara acercarme en bus a : Arenas De San Pedro o Candelada.
¿Cuál es mejor?
Quisiera ver la Laguna y terminar en el Almanzor.
emiliomoska
Plasencia, Spain160 contributions
Mejor que te pongas de acuerdo con alguien que quiera acercarse a los mismos lugares. De lo contrario perderás mucho tiempo. Llegar, llegarás pero.... a la montaña mejor ir acompañad@.
Antonio R
Guangzhou, China91 contributions
Hola a todos, recuerdo que hace unos años se podía acampar durante la noche cerca del refugio en la Laguna Grande del Circo de Gredos, aunque no estaba técnicamente permitido. ¿Sigue acampando la gente allí todavía? Estoy pensando volver allí un día este verano, por saber a qué atenerme. Gracias.
zzpasku
Community of Madrid, Spain77 contributions
Hola, si, he estado este fin de semana y la gente sigue acampando en la llanura al lado del refugio, nadie dijo nada, aunque las tiendas se levantan solo para pernoctar.
No obstante durante todo el camino a partir del refugio hacia arriba hay abrigos donde hacer vivac sin problemas.
Parque Regional de la Sierra de Gredos (Navarredonda de Gredos) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Parque Regional de la Sierra de Gredos
- Hotels near Parque Regional de la Sierra de Gredos:
- (5.26 mi) Hotel Nabia
- (6.91 mi) Hotel Gredos Maria Justina
- (8.76 mi) Hotel El Milano Real
- (7.22 mi) Posada Albarea
- (7.11 mi) Hotel Rural El Camino
- Restaurants near Parque Regional de la Sierra de Gredos:
- (8.55 mi) La Mira de Gredos
- (8.74 mi) Cafeteria Drakar
- (8.27 mi) Restaurante la Galana
- (7.19 mi) Restaurante Casa Pepe
- (5.01 mi) El Refugio de Chilla