Seasonal Splendor in the Valleys of Gredos

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 National Parador of Gredos, the first Parador opened in Spain, or at a very nice local hotel.

Circular ride from Navarredonda, an easy introductory day, with lunch in the countryside. Riding in the woods and towards the source of the Tormes River and alpine pastures of the Sierra de Gredos. A chance for riders and horses to get to know one another. In the afternoon ride back to the stables. Dinner and overnight as the previous night. (About 4 ½ hours riding)

In the morning ride along the river to Hoyos del Espino and climb up to Hoyos del Collado. Riding along an ancient cattle path you will reach Navacepeda de Tormes. Descent towards the Tormes River and the gorge of Barbellido. Lunch at the beautiful Pozo de las Paredes with a 14th century bridge, an ideal spot for a swim. Short afternoon ride with magnificent views to the village of Navalperal de Tormes. Dinner and overnight at a charming hotel in the village. (About 4 ½ hours riding)

From Navalperal follow the cattle path to Navacepeda de Tormes, then ride along the Tormes river. Picnic lunch will be at a fisherman’s hut at Hoyos del Collado, another wonderful spot for a swim. In the afternoon, follow along the river and through pinewoods to get back to the stables in Navarredonda. Dinner and overnight at a comfortable village hotel.

In the morning climb to the heights of Canada del Horno, through open fields and dense broom areas and enjoy the wonderful views of the Alberche river valley. Lunch at a bar in the village or a picnic near the river. The afternoon will bring great views of the Sierra de Gredos. Descent back towards Barajas de Gredos and the stables in Navarredonda. Dinner and overnight as previous night. (About 5 hours riding)

Ride towards the heights of the Sierra de Gredos with magnificent views. Ascend to the Covacha gorge and descent towards the gorge of Barbellido. Enjoy the picnic lunch by the river which has another ideal spot for a refreshing swim. Afternoon ride to the heights of Siete Fuentes and descent to the pinewoods of Hoyos del Espino before arriving back at the stables. Dinner and overnight as the night before.

After breakfast transfer (1 hour) to the National Parador of Avila, which is a 16th century palace located in the historical center of Avila, backing onto the majestic city walls. Dinner, overnight and Sunday breakfast will be taken at your accommodations. Lunch is not included today.

You will have the day to visit this historical walled town from the 11th century. Your ride organizers will be happy to make suggestions for tours and restaurants in Avila.

After breakfast transfer to Madrid airport, arriving there about 12 noon. All riders will be transferred at the same time. If any rider needs to arrive in Madrid prior to noon, all riders will have to depart earlier, or alternative transportation can be arranged at an additional cost.