La Pedriza
The granite labyrinth
Distance
12 km
Duration
4h 30
Elevation gain
+450 m
Type
Circular
Level
Moderate
The route
La Pedriza is the largest granite massif in Europe: a labyrinth of towering boulders, scree slopes and wildly shaped rock formations carved by millions of years of erosion. It sits in the heart of the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park, right beside Manzanares el Real, less than an hour from Madrid.
Our circular route climbs between granite blocks and pine woods to the finest viewpoints of the massif, with El Yelmo standing tall as a backdrop. A moderate, endlessly photogenic hike, perfect for discovering the mountains of Madrid without needing to be an expert.
Route profile
Indicative profile · Elevation gain: +450 m
Highlights
- El Yelmo, the most iconic granite dome in La Pedriza
- Panoramic views of the Embalse de Santillana reservoir and Manzanares castle
- Scots pine forest and one-of-a-kind granite formations
- Wildlife: griffon vultures and Iberian ibex
The trail
Km 0
Canto Cochino
Meeting point and trailhead, next to the main access car park for La Pedriza.
Km 3
Collado de la Dehesilla
First breather among the pines, with the massif opening up ahead.
Km 6
El Yelmo
The high point of the day: the great granite dome and its full 360-degree views.
Km 9
Descent along the stream
Dropping down through scree and shady stretches, following the water.
Km 12
Back to Canto Cochino
Closing the loop and the end of the hike.
What to bring
- Mountain boots with good grip
- 20-30 L backpack
- Water: 1.5 L minimum
- Layered clothing + windbreaker
- Cap, sunglasses and sun protection
- Food and energy snacks
- Trekking poles (recommended)
- A love for the mountains
Safety & the mountain
Certified guide
Certified mountain guide with first-aid training. Small groups of up to 12 people.
If the weather turns
The mountain rules. If the forecast isn't safe, we reschedule to another date or give you a full refund. Your safety comes first.
Meeting point
Canto Cochino, La Pedriza (Manzanares el Real)
Access gateway to La Pedriza. From Madrid, take the M-607 and the M-608 to Manzanares el Real.
Access to La Pedriza has a daily entry cap. Add transport from Madrid and we take care of everything.
