The Sierra of Guadarrama dominates and characterises a landscape whose principal natural elements, the MountAbantos and the Herrería, enjoy an excellent state of conservation, thanks to its being declared a Picturesque Place in 1961.
La Herrería. It alternates areas of Pyrenean oak forest with others with meadows in which ash and oak trees coexist. A path with informative panels, the group of granite fountains and the rest area offer the possibility of enjoying one of the best-conserved natural areas in the Madrid region.
Silla of Felipe II (Chair of Felipe II). In the area of La Herrería we find this place that must be visited. The steps sculpted by picks in an enormous rock lead to the platform from which Felipe II watched the development of the work on the Monastery and the visitor will appreciate a magnificent panoramic view of the Historic Artistic Ensemble of San Lorenzo de El Escorial with Mount Abantos in the background.
Alto de Abantos (Abantos Heights). At 1,752 m., forming part of the GR-10 route, it represents one of the most emblematic places of the Madrid mountain region. The verticality of its slopes and the reforestation carried out in the past create a diversity of environment and contrasts that make it an ideal place for mountain-lovers.
Crossing of the Cumbres Escurialenses (EscorialPeaks). With more than 25 years of tradition, it represents one of the most pleasant sporting events of the region. In a carefree and festive environmentmore than 1,000 participants culminate the climb to the Abantos during the fiestas of San Lorenzo.
Natural Resources Centre. Created from the restoration of a traditional mountain building, it has an Environmental Education Centre from which values of the Sierra of Guadarrama and environmental awareness are promoted.
Woods Luis Ceballos. Located on MountAbantos, it offers the possibility of geeing to know the area’s ecosystems, the traditional forest practices and the interrelationships between the mountain range and its surroundings. A marked itinerary of barely 2.2 km allows access to the interested hikers. You can also consult its web page.
