THE SIERRA DE GREDOS AND LA VERA EXPERIENCE

calendar_month 8 days trip
trip Group trip
location_on Trip to know Spain, Sierra de Gredos
THE SIERRA DE GREDOS AND LA VERA EXPERIENCE
from 1.450 €
public Sierra de Gredos
Sierra de Gredos
public Spring
public Autumn
public Hiking trips
Viajes de Senderismo
public Easy Level
Baja
public Moderate Level
Media
public Guided Inn-based hiking tours
De hotel en hotel
public walking clubs

The Sierra de Gredos & La Vera Experience

An eight-day walking adventure through granite mountains, glacial landscapes, historic villages and the beautiful region of La Vera.

Recommended walking level: The full programme is designed for hillwalkers with a good level of fitness and recent experience of Grade A or Grade B walks.

The granite heart of central Spain

The Sierra de Gredos forms part of Spain’s Central System and extends across the provinces of Ávila, Madrid, Toledo, Cáceres and Salamanca. Its protected mountain heart lies within the province of Ávila and is easily accessible from Madrid.

This impressive mountain range is characterised by vast granite formations, rugged summits, deep gorges and landscapes shaped by ancient glaciers.

The highest summit is Pico Almanzor, rising to 2,592 metres. It is the highest mountain in both the Sierra de Gredos and the entire Central System.

Two contrasting sides of the mountains

The northern and southern slopes of Gredos offer very different landscapes and walking experiences.

The northern slopes descend more gradually towards high mountain valleys and traditional villages. By contrast, the southern face falls more steeply towards the warmer valleys and fertile landscapes of La Vera.

Throughout the journey, you will experience scenery associated with the Alto Tormes, Alto Alberche and Tiétar valleys, before discovering the distinctive character of La Vera and the nearby Ambroz Valley.

A journey shaped by nature and history

This eight-day adventure combines rewarding mountain walks with historic routes, rural culture and the peaceful landscapes of western Spain.

  • Granite mountain scenery
    Walk among imposing peaks, rocky ridges and the distinctive granite formations that define the Sierra de Gredos.
  • Glacial landscapes
    Discover mountain cirques, clear lagoons, deep valleys and gorges created during ancient glacial periods.
  • Mountain wildlife
    Explore the natural habitat of the Spanish ibex and a remarkable variety of mountain birds and endemic species.
  • La Vera
    Experience a greener and gentler landscape of woodland, fertile valleys, mountain streams and traditional villages.
  • History and rural culture
    Follow historic paths and discover communities shaped by centuries of mountain life and local traditions.

More than a mountain adventure

From challenging ascents and dramatic high-mountain scenery to peaceful valleys and villages, this journey brings together nature, history and culture.

Every day offers a different perspective, making the programme ideal for walkers who want to explore both the wild landscapes and the cultural character of this lesser-known region of Spain.

Choose the right level for your group

Depending on your group’s requirements, the walking programme can be adapted to different abilities and interests.

  • A — Challenging
    More demanding mountain routes with longer distances, sustained ascents and optional mountain-hut combinations.
  • B — Moderate
    Shorter routes with reduced ascent, rewarding viewpoints and achievable peak opportunities.
  • C — Leisurely and cultural
    Comfortable walks through valleys, villages and places of historical, cultural or natural interest.

The choice is yours

Tell us in advance about your group’s walking experience, preferred level and interests. We will adapt the programme to create the right Sierra de Gredos and La Vera experience for your group.

Sierra de Gredos is a mountain range in the Central System and is situated in the provinces of Salamanca, Ávila, and Cáceres, with easy access from Madrid. The highest point is located in the province Ávila, at the Almanzor at 2,592 metres.  Its large masses of granite characterize the Sierra de Gredos, and from the south face the mountains give a relatively steep climb. The mountains consist of five river valleys: Alto Tormes, Alto Alberche, Tiétar Oriental, Tiétar Occidental and the Vera and finally the Valle del Ambroz.

Day 1. Arrival in Madrid Airport.

Transfer to El Barco de Ávila. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel, followed by a briefing on the itinerary. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in El Barco de Ávila.



Day 2. Breakfast.

LEVEL A: ASCENT TO MOREZON PEAK. Route Type: Circular | Distance:5 km | Elevation Gain: +750m
The adventure begins at the Plataforma de Gredos (1750m). We follow the path towards Laguna Grande, and from Peña Rayo, we take the Trocha Real trail, passing beneath Cuento Alto. The route leads to Morezon Bajero (2269m), after which we ascend to Morezon Peak (2389m). The panoramic views, stretching as far as Toledo, are breathtaking. The descent follows the path just below Cerro de la Cagarruta, connecting with Trocha Real, heading towards Los Colgadizos, and eventually returning to the starting point at La Plataforma.
Dinner and overnight in El Barco de Ávila.

LEVEL B: WALK TO BARRERA DE LAS POZAS. Route Type: Circular | Distance: 11 km | Elevation Gain: +500m
This route follows a similar path to Level A until Barrera de las Pozas, after which we descend to Los Colgadizos and return to La Plataforma via the Trocha Real trail. Dinner and overnight in El Barco de Ávila.



Day 3. Breakfast.

LEVEL A: ASCENT TO CALVITERO PEAK & THE TRAMPAL LAGOONS. Route Type: Circular | Distance: 13 km | Elevation Gain / Loss: +850m / -850m
This scenic hike takes place in the Sierra de Béjar, where you'll ascend several 2,000-meter peaks, including Calvitero and Salamanca's highest, Canchal de la Ceja. Starting from the second El Travieso platform (1,875m), you'll reach the summit of Calvitero Peak (2,225m) and enjoy sweeping views of the Béjar region and the Sierra de Francia. Afterward, descend to the stunning Trampal Lagoons (2,110m), three glacial lagoons. Following an ascent to the Hoya Moros valley (2,060m), observe the majestic Los Dos Hermanitos before heading back to the Travieso platform. Dinner and overnight in El Barco de Ávila.

LEVEL B: ASCENT TO CALVITERO PEAK & LA CEJA PEAK. Route Type: Circular | Distance: 12 km | Elevation Gain/Loss:+650m/-650m
Follow the same trail as Level A until the descent to the Trampal Lagoons. From here, continue towards Canchal de la Ceja, ascending to its peak at 2,428m, the highest in Salamanca. From the expansive summit, enjoy stunning views of the Trampal Lagoons, the Sierra de Francia, and Los Hermanitos. The descent follows the climber’s path used by mountaineers, passing through the Hornillo Valley before returning to the Travieso platform. Dinner and overnight in El Barco de Ávila.



Day 4. Breakfast. Free Day or Historical & Cultural Tour in Salamanca

Historical and Cultural Tour in Salamanca (Optional)


Salamanca is an essential destination, boasting 3,000 years of history. The city's rich past includes the arrival of Celtic tribes, Roman conquests, and the city's re-founding by Alfonso VI after the Moorish conquest of Toledo. Notable events include the noble wars of the 14th and 15th centuries, the War of the Commons, the cultural renaissance of the 16th century, and the impacts of the Baroque period and the Peninsular War. The city was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988 and a European Capital of Culture in 2002.
Free dinner. Overnight in El Barco de Ávila.



Day 5. Breakfast

LEVEL A & B: HIKE TO LA GARGANTA DE LOS INFIERNOS (The Hell's Gorge). Route Type: Circular | Distance: 16 km | Elevation Gain/Loss: +550m / -550m
Today’s hike takes us to the southern face of the Sierra de Gredos, towards Jarandilla de la Vera. Both groups will trek along the remarkable path to La Garganta de los Infiernos, located in the Valle del Jerte. The area is renowned for its dramatic waterfalls, streams, and natural pools stretching across several kilometres. The circular route traverses the heart of the nature reserve, offering a glimpse into the diverse flora and fauna of this stunning region. In the afternoon, we arrive in Jarandilla de la Vera. Dinner and overnight in Jarandilla de la Vera.



Day 6. Breakfast

LEVEL A: HIKE TO LOS GALAYOS. Route Type: Linear | Distance: 12 km | Elevation Gain/Loss: +1,250m / -1,250m
The hike begins in Guisando, a village on the southern side of the Sierra de Gredos. After a visit to the Sierra de Gredos Interpretation Centre, we start the route at Nogal del Barranco (1200m). Following the PR AV-43 path along the Vertiente de Los Galayos, we gradually climb until reaching Las Zetas, at the Canal de la Mira. From here, the route takes us up a steep rocky gradient to the Refugio Victory (1970m), bringing us face-to-face with the towering Galayos formations. Those seeking an additional challenge can ascend further to the crest and even continue to La Mira Peak (2343m). We return via the same route. Dinner and overnight in Jarandilla de la Vera.

LEVEL B: HIKE TO LOS GALAYOS. Route Type: Linear | Distance: 10 km | Elevation Gain/Loss: +850m / -850m
Follow the same route as Level A up to the Refugio Victory, with a gradual climb to the viewpoint near Los Galayos. We return along the same path. Dinner and overnight in Jarandilla de la Vera.



Day 7. Breakfast.

LEVEL A: HIKE TO TRABUQUETE, MESAS ALTAS & REFUGIO DE LAS NIEVES. Route Type: Semi-Circular | Distance:5 km | Elevation Gain/Loss: +1,150m / -1,150m
Starting 2 km north of Guijo de Santa Bárbara, the hike begins at the Chinarral viewpoint. We ascend the Jaranda gorge to the Trabuquete Lagoon, a popular summer swimming spot. Crossing the Jaranda River, we continue through the Campanario Gorge to the Portillo del Cogorzal, where spectacular views await. From here, we follow the mountain ridge to the Mesas Altas peak. After a rest, we descend to Refugio Las Nieves for lunch, then follow a grassy path through oak forests to our starting point. Dinner and overnight in Jarandilla de la Vera.

LEVEL B: HIKE TO TRABUQUETE & REFUGIO DE LAS NIEVES. Route Type: Circular | Distance: 12 km | Elevation Gain/Loss: +650m / -650m
This route follows the same path as Level A up to Trabuquete Lagoon and Campanario Gorge, eventually leading to Refugio Las Nieves, where we enjoy lunch and rest. The descent passes through oak forests, returning to Guijo de Santa Bárbara. Dinner and overnight in Jarandilla de la Vera



Day 8. Breakfast.

Breakfast and transfer back to Madrid airport.

  IT INCLUDES:
  • 4 nights in El Barco de Ávila
    Four nights’ accommodation at Hotel Puerta de Gredos.
  • 3 nights in Jarandilla de la Vera
    Three nights’ accommodation at the Parador de Jarandilla de la Vera.
  • 7 breakfasts
    Breakfast is included each morning of the programme.
  • 6 dinners
    Six dinners are included during the trip.
  • Transport and airport transfers
    All scheduled transport detailed in the itinerary, including airport transfers.
  • Listed activities
    All activities specifically included in the published tour programme.
  • Professional English-speaking guides
    Qualified, certified or officially approved guides throughout the walking programme.
  • Activity insurance and taxes
    Activity insurance for the walking programme and all applicable taxes are included.
  DOES NOT INCLUDE:
  • Picnic lunches
    Picnic lunches are not included but can be ordered from the hotels or purchased from local shops.
  • Dinner on day 4
    Dinner is not included on day 4 of the programme.
  • Drinks
    Drinks are not included unless otherwise specified.
  • Optional Salamanca excursion — €50
    The optional excursion to Salamanca is not included in the tour price and can be booked separately.
  • Flights
    Flights to and from the destination are not included.

Important booking information

Terms & Conditions

Please read these terms carefully before booking your tour. They explain our payment, cancellation, itinerary and insurance conditions.

By booking a tour with Rumbo a Picos, participants acknowledge and accept the conditions set out below.

01

Tour programme and itinerary

Rumbo a Picos reserves the right to make reasonable changes to the tour programme before departure when considered necessary. Whenever possible, clients will be consulted and informed in advance.

Changes may be required as a result of:

  • Weather or mountain conditions
  • Flight or airport connection changes
  • Increased hotel, transport or guide costs
  • Other significant circumstances affecting the tour

Any adjustments will be made with the aim of maintaining the safety, quality and financial viability of the tour.

02

Payments

Deposit €300

Reserve your place

A deposit of €300 per person is required to reserve a place on the tour. It should be paid promptly so that Rumbo a Picos can confirm your reservation and determine whether the minimum number of participants has been reached.

Final payment 30 days

Before departure

The outstanding balance must be paid no later than 30 days before the tour start date.

03

Cancellation policy

Cancellation by Rumbo a Picos

Rumbo a Picos may cancel a tour up to 30 days before departure if the minimum number of participants has not been reached. In this event, participants will receive a full refund of all payments made to Rumbo a Picos. Refunds will be paid by bank transfer within seven days of the cancellation notice.

65 days or more

Full refund

For cancellations made 65 days or more before departure, all payments received by Rumbo a Picos will be refunded in full.

64–31 days

50% cancellation fee

Cancellations made between 64 and 31 days before departure are subject to a cancellation fee equal to 50% of the amount paid. The remaining balance will be refunded.

30 days or fewer

No refund

No refund will be provided for cancellations made 30 days or fewer before departure.

Changes beyond our control

Rumbo a Picos may modify the programme or itinerary due to circumstances beyond its control, including force majeure, severe or unsuitable weather, or any other situation requiring changes to protect participants’ safety.

Leaving a tour early

A participant who decides to leave the tour for any reason must inform the guide of their decision in writing. Any costs arising from that decision will be the participant’s responsibility.

04

Insurance

Travel with the right protection

Activity insurance is included, but every participant must also arrange suitable personal travel insurance.

Included

Activity insurance

This insurance exclusively covers risks arising from the hiking activities included in the tour programme.

Activity insurance does not replace personal travel insurance.

Required

Personal travel insurance

Every participant must obtain personal travel insurance with adequate cover for:

  • Overseas medical treatment
  • Emergency evacuation and repatriation
  • Baggage and personal equipment
  • Travel and tour cancellation costs

Important: Participants must bring proof of their travel insurance. The guides will ask to see it at the beginning of the tour.

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