Route 4: Siete Picos

Lovers of technical terrain, your time has come. As their name suggests, the Siete Picos are a succession of seven peaks that offer breathtaking views over rocky terrain. Located between two famous passes of the Sierra de Guadarrama, the Puerto de la Fuenfría and the Puerto de Navacerrada, they are popular with Madrid hikers.

The route that I am proposing is, however, more demanding since you have to start from the foot of the massif, as with the other circuits in the Collection. The climb of more than seven kilometers to reach this famous section is arduous. For your pleasure, it is punctuated by a few stops with pretty views, such as at the Mirador de los Poetas.

Just before arriving at the Siete Picos, you reach another famous peak, the Pico de Majalasna. From the Pradera de Majalasna, its ascent is short but very technical. If you like to climb rocks, take this detour while paying attention to where you put your feet.

Otherwise, head towards the marvelous Siete Picos ridge. Despite the slight difference in altitude on this section of more than two kilometers, your progress remains difficult in this mineral setting.

At the Pradera de los Siete Picos, it is time to descend towards Cercedilla on terrain that remains demanding. It is only around the fourteenth kilometer that the environment ceases to be alpine. Your legs appreciate being able to lengthen your stride again on the last slightly downhill section. Use the adrenaline provided by the magnificent landscapes you have crossed to gain speed until the finish!