The Zabala area is the gateway to the Peñalara glacial cirque. From the Puerto de Cotos mountain pass, this official National Park route leads to the Laguna Grande lake with open views of the massif: an “accessible” high-mountain experience for those who already have some experience of walking in the sierra.

Key facts

• Difficulty: moderate (mountain beginner according to the Park; harder in snow)
• Distance: 4.7 km there and back
• Elevation gain: approx. +279 m
• Approximate time: about 1 h 45 min
• Type: linear · official PNSG route

Starting point

Visitor centre / car park at Puerto de Cotos. Usually reached by car or by mountain public transport in season.

The route

The path climbs through the cirque towards the Laguna Grande de Peñalara, passing through the Zabala area. The landscape changes quickly: broom scrub, scree slopes and the glacial amphitheatre. On clear days the views are well worth the effort.

In snow or ice you will need mountain equipment and winter mountain experience. Do not leave the waymarked path.

National Park rules

The Peñalara Massif has a daily visitor quota and rules for groups. Check capacity, bookings and current regulations on the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park website before setting off. Stay on the paths, do not disturb wildlife and leave no litter.

Official route

PNSG-033 Zona del Zabala (in Spanish).

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