Cabeza Mediana
A valley classic with wide views over El Paular: a long, moderate-to-demanding day for fit hikers.
Laguna de los Pájaros from Cotos
Demanding circular route past glacial lakes and along the Peñalara ridges: high mountain walking for experienced hikers.
Finnish Forest Walk
Easy walk among birch trees along the River Lozoya: El Paular’s most unusual and photogenic spot, perfect in autumn.
Puente de la Angostura and Presa del Pradillo
Easy riverside walk past natural pools, a historic bridge and the Pradillo Dam: the lower Lozoya valley at its summery, family-friendly best.
Cotos – Arroyo de la Angostura via Las Vueltas
Official circular route through the pine forests at the head of El Paular: less crowded than Peñalara summit, with a true high-sierra feel.
Peñalara Peak
Climb to the roof of the Community of Madrid (2,428 m): a demanding official route from Cotos for well-prepared hikers.
Zabala Area (Laguna Grande de Peñalara)
Official route from Cotos to the glacial cirque and the Laguna Grande de Peñalara: accessible high mountain walking with spectacular views.
Rascafría – Puente del Perdón
A short, easy walk from Rascafría to the Puente del Perdón, the valley’s iconic bridge next to the Monastery of El Paular.
El Paular and Los Batanes
Official family walk past the Monastery of El Paular, the Puente del Perdón, the poplar grove and the Finnish Forest.
Purgatorio Waterfalls
Woodland, the Aguilón stream and the most iconic waterfall in the El Paular Valley: a must-do walk if you are visiting Rascafría.