The Sierra de Gredos passes through one of the most distinctive regions of the Iberian Peninsula. River valleys, surrounded by rugged mountains, are dotted with small villages. Here and there a towering castle perches in austere grandeur on a hill and an ancient monastery lies in a valley. The final day of this ride is spent exploring the medieval town of Avila.
This is a very representative part of the Sierra. Riders will be inspired by this National Park’s diverse display of flora and fauna through the Tormes, Corneja and Alberche river valleys. Ride up slopes of oak, pine and chestnut trees, discover wildlife from rocky overlooks, and gallop across pastures and open fields. The small villages along the trail display their architecture, their traditions, and the way of life of their people.
These ride dates allow you to admire Gredos at its best depending on the time of year: Easter, spring, summer and the fall mushroom ride.
This itinerary is designed to take advantage of the best summer riding in Spain. On one side you have the altitude of the mountains and the alpine valleys, all above 1500 m, and on the other mountain gorges and swimming in the rivers followed by sunbathing siestas – a real summer holiday.
There will be small variations depending on the time of year: Easter Ride, Spring Ride, Cattle Ride, Summer Ride and Autumn Mushroom Ride.
Meet in Madrid and transfer to Navarredonda de Gredos (2 hour drive), a small village in the heart of Castilla with a splendid view of the Sierra de Gredos. This is a region steeped in history, where the Moors and Christians fought, where Romans built roads that have lasted for centuries, and which the Spanish still refer to as “the stone heart of the peninsula”. Enjoy a welcome dinner and overnight at the boutique hotel El Milano Real.
Circle ride from Navarredonda, an easy, fun introductory day. Morning ride in the woods and towards the source of the Tormes River and alpine pastures, with great views of the Sierra de Gredos. After one of the epic aperitivos, ride through the pine forests and grazing fields. Lunch near the river, a delicious paella! Siesta and swim in a beautiful river pool. Afternoon ride back to the stables in Navarredonda, returning for dinner and overnight at the boutique hotel El Milano Real. Dinner and overnight as the previous night. (About 4 ½ hours riding)
Morning ride along the river towards Hoyos del Espino and climb up to Hoyos del Collado. Aperitivo at the height of Collado, with panoramic views of the valleys. Riding along an ancient cattle path you reach Navacepeda de Tormes. Descent towards the Tormes river and the spectacular Pozo de las Paredes, with a 14th century bridge. Ideal for a swim!. Lunch and siesta near the river. Afternoon ride with magnificent views to the village of Navalperal de Tormes. Dinner and night at the country house Cruz del Gallo. (About 4 ½ hours riding)
From Navalperal follow the cattle path to Navacepeda de Tormes. Then join the course of the Tormes river. Picnic lunch at a fisherman’s hut, at Hoyos del Collado and there is an ideal river pool for a swim for anyone wanting to cool off. Spend the afternoon by the river and later on ride through the pinewoods to get back to the stables in Navarredonda. Dinner and overnight at the boutique hotel La Mira de Gredos.
Ride towards the heights of the Sierra de Gredos with magnificent views. Climb to the Covacha gorge and descent towards the gorge of Barbellido. Picnic lunch awaits you by the river which is also an excellent spot for a swim. Afternoon climb to the heights of Siete Fuentes and descent to the pinewoods of Hoyos del Espino. Ride back to the stables in Navarredonda de Gredos. Dinner and overnight at the boutique hotel La Mira de Gredos. (About 5 hours riding)
In the morning climb to the heights of Cañada del Gallo, through open fields and dense broom areas, with great panoramic views of the Alberche river valley and the Sierra de Gredos. Aperitivo and gourmet (a feast!) lunch in the open countryside with amazing views. Descent back towards Hoyos del Espino and the stables in Navarredonda. Special farewell tasting and pairing dinner at the boutique hotel La Mira de Gredos.
Transfer to the Madrid airport (in time for flights after 1pm).
OR
OPTIONAL TRIP EXTENSION: Day 7, Saturday. NAVARREDONDA – AVILA
Transfer to Ávila (1 hour drive). Day in Avila to visit this historic walled town from the 11th century. Avila is one of the World Heritage Cities of Spain, one of the 660 cultural sites in the world that the World Heritage Committee considers as having outstanding universal value. A guided visit with a very knowledgeable guide is included. (Lunch this day is not included/recommendation – booking can be organized). Dinner and overnight at the luxurious National Parador of Ávila (or Palacio de los Velada 4*). The National Parador of Avila (4* Parador). This Parador is a 16th century Palace in the historical centre of monumental Ávila, backing onto the majestic city walls. Dinner, overnight and Sunday breakfast at the Parador are included in the program.
Transfer to the Madrid airport (in time for flights after 1pm).
This itinerary is flexible and changes may be made at the guide's discretion based on weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
Price with Avila extension, 7 night stay, single room supplement of 380 Euro payable locally.
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This was my first horseback riding vacation and won't be the last. The food was excellent and prepared as if we were royalty. I felt completely safe and taken care of.
Barbara Shea
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