Updated Nov 2025 — clarified route context & internal stage links
Planning a Sierra de Gredos day in the context of my Crossing Eurasia route? This geography-first primer shows how the Circo de Gredos—an ice-carved granite amphitheatre beneath Pico Almanzor—funnels water and weather toward Laguna Grande, and why that matters for hikers. You’ll “read” the land before walking the classic track from the Plataforma de Gredos to the lake, with optional spurs for higher viewpoints; practical map notes, timings, and parking come after the landscape makes sense.
Part of the Long-Distance Routes project.
This guide is also a stage on the Crossing Eurasia overland route.
→ See the full route hub
→ Start the route from Cabo da Roca
Table of Contents
About Sierra de Gredos
Let’s open the physical map of the Iberian Peninsula. You will notice how the northern-northwestern part of the peninsula is high, looking like a plateau. The southern boundary of this plateau is marked by a tall, long mountain range, located in the middle of the peninsula. This mountain range is called Cordillera Central, known also as Sistema Central.
Now, let’s zoom in. You can see the most prominent segment of Cordillera Central, somewhere between the rivers Tagus and Duero. This is Sierra de Gredos, rising magnificently above the surrounding valleys in the middle of the Iberian Peninsula.
Sierra de Gredos is covered by subtropical forests on its lowest parts, pine forests and grasslands (covered by yellow Spanish Broom) on its middle altitude, and alpine grass and rocks on its highest zone. The highest point of Sierra de Gredos is Mt Pico Almanzor (2592 m), and there are several glacial lakes in the area around Almanzor. Here is our focus.
Laguna Grande and Pico Almanzor
This area is located in the middle of the Sierra de Gredos- the most alpine part of the mountain range. Here you can enjoy majestic views of sharp peaks, deep glacial valleys, alpine meadows, lakes, and streams. Pico Almanzor is a part of the main watershed between the basins of Duero and Tagus, and the largest glacial lake in Sierra de Gredos- Laguna Grande is located right in front of it, at its northeastern foot.
Three main streams flow to the north of Pico Almanzor- Garganta de Gredos in the middle, Rio Barbellido in the east, and Garganta del Pinar in the west, with sub-ridges branching north of the main summit between these streams. All of this forms the incredibly beautiful landscape, providing not only an opportunity to get familiar with the high mountains in the middle of the Iberian Peninsula, but also to spend a great time with fantastic views everywhere around.
And the most basic way to do it is to try the classical Laguna Grande trail.
The classical Laguna Grande trail
Some people call it “Senda de la Laguna Grande” (“The Path to the Great Lake”), others call it “Subida a la Laguna Grande” (“The Climb to the Great Lake”), and officially it is marked as PR-AV 17. The trail starts from a big parking lot called Plataforma de Gredos (1770 m), ascends to a point called Los Barrerones (2175 m), and ends at the shores of Laguna Grande (1940 m). Its total length is 6,4 km and usually takes about an hour and a half to two hours to complete in one direction.
The end of the trail is the beginning of the attack of Pico Almanzor- a challenging route with great reward at the top.
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My journey to Sierra de Gredos
It was a part of a long-distance route that I planned and started- a route across the whole physical continent of Eurasia (Europe and Asia). This route started from the westernmost point of the continent- Cabo da Roca in Portugal, crossed the Iberian Peninsula from west to northeast, and proceeded further east, deep into the Eurasian interior.
I carefully planned the route, identifying various points of interest (each with its own unique features, with high geographical, historical, and cultural value), and joined them with a line. I saw Sierra de Gredos in the middle of Spain (Iberian Peninsula) as a typical high mountain area in the Mediterranean zone of Europe. So, I chose it as one of these points. Then, I planned the way to explore it.
I identified the best part of Sierra de Gredos- Pico Almanzor and Laguna Grande, and how to explore it. I didn’t aimed straight at this area but first stopped in a lower point of interest, in the western branches of the mountains- Garganta de los Infiernos (“Hell’s Throat”) for a first impressions of this mountains. I traveled by rental car, so I could easily reach Plataforma de Gredos- the starting point of the classical trail to this area. Also, I found my “base camp” before the hike- El Camping de Gredos. With that, the adventure began.
PR-AV 17 in detail
Actually, it is not in my style- I always prefer wild, raw, unknown, off-the-beaten-path areas. The trail to Laguna Grande is far from that- it is full of tourists (if the weather is good, of course), well-arranged, and very popular. Nevertheless, it is still a great opportunity to taste the pure geography.
So, let’s begin from its starting point.
The road to the start
Your goal is a place called Plataforma de Gredos- the starting point of the trail. Whether you come from the west, east, north, or south, you have to travel on the road AV-941 to the village of Hoyos del Espino. From there, you turn southward on the road AV-931 until you reach its end.
This road is 11,6 km long. It starts from 1465 m, proceeds by El Camping de Gredos through a beautiful pine forest, and gradually ascends to 1770 m (Plataforma de Gredos). On the way, it enters through the gate of Parque Regional de la Sierra de Gredos (1480 m). Here you have to pay:
- For a car: 3 EUR; for a van or camper: 5 EUR; for a bus: 12 EUR.
- Payment time:
* July, August, September- every day, from 7:30 am to 7:30 pm
* June, October- only weekends, from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm - If you arrive at another time, it is free (no payment).
Here, the pine forest gradually ends, giving place to alpine grasslands. A few kilometers further is Plataforma de Gredos.
Plataforma de Gredos
If you come by car, you leave your car here (as I did) and start hiking. The parking lot is large, but in weekends it can be crowded with cars. There is nothing but a small toilet, two pavilions, and a drinking spring there. No café, no restaurant, no shop, so prepare in advance.
Here, the road ends and the trail starts with an Information Board / Panel – featuring a map of the Circo de Gredos, routes, warnings, and park regulations. From here, you start hiking on a well-established stony trail.
On the trail
The trail to Laguna Grande is relatively easy, except for a few sections on the way.
Llano Barbellido
First, the trail gradually ascends, following Rio Barbellido against its current. Soon, it leaves the river’s valley and, after about 25-30 minutes (1 km), reaches a large, relatively flat grassland. This is Llano Barbellido (1890 m)- a nice place with wide panoramic views. A signed spur here leads to Refugio de Reguero Llano (right turn from the main path) — a small shelter close to the PR-AV 17 lower section.
Prado de las Pozas
You proceed on your walk for 15 minutes on the easiest section of the trail. It is almost flat, with very little elevation gain. The trail reaches the next nice point- Prado de las Pozas- a serene place with a calm stream (Arroyo de las Pozas) and a pond. Here, the altitude is 1920 m.
Fuente de los Cavadores
From Prado de las Pozas, the trail gets steeper. It is no longer paved with stones, although still well-shaped. For about 50 minutes, you ascend to a nice mountain fountain with drinking water, called Fuente de los Cavadores. Here, the altitude is 2134 m, and the panoramic views get wider, revealing more mountains and valleys in the distance.
Los Barrerones
This is the highest point of the trail- 2175 m altitude, only about 10 minutes from Fuente de los Cavadores. Los Barrerones is an important milestone. From here, you can see the deep valley of Garganta de Gredos, the alpine peaks above it, and the magnificent massif of Pico Almanzor.
You gradually turn southward above the valley and start descending. Although it sounds like an “easy” part, the trail itself gets wilder and natural- no “stone pavement” anymore. In some places, it also descends steeply with curves. Soon, you can see the waters of Laguna Grande.
Laguna Grande shores
The distance from Los Barrerones to Laguna Grande is about 2,6 km, but due to the raw trail surface, you normally need about 55 minutes to reach it. But the reward is great, tranquil meadows surround the northern shores of the lake, and they are excellent for relaxation and some picnic, surrounded by the alpine landscape above the lake.
What follows is the last 750 m to the end of the trail. Here, the trail tightly follows the eastern shores of Laguna Grande. It is almost flat, but if the lake level is high, the waters can cover about 80-100 m of the trail.
It was my case when I was there at the end of May. The mountain was partly covered by old, wet, melting snow, and the trail disappeared under the water. At the same time, the waters reach a cliff, so I had two options- to climb on the cliff or to put off my shoes and walk barefoot on the covered trail (it was only about 20-30 cm deep). The first option was too risky, so I chose the second option- actually a fun addition to the hiking adventure.
Refugio Laguna Grande (Refugio Elola)
Finally, the trail crosses a wooden bridge over a stream (Garganta de Gredos over the lake), at the southern shores of Laguna Grande, and reaches a mountain hut (or chalet with relatively basic conditions) called Refugio Laguna Grande, or Refugio Elola- one of the most famous mountain huts among Spanish hikers.
Refugio Laguna Grande (Elola) is managed by Federación de Montaña de Castilla y León (FDMESCYL). It offers 65 beds in dorms, with a kitchen, a dining room, and a terrace with a view to the lake. There are no washrooms, but just basic toilets. There is only a limited phone charging opportunity (depends on solar panels), and the managers serve some meals and drinks (but don’t expect a restaurant).
Refugio Laguna Grande (Elola) is fully open from June to October, with serving personnel. The rest of the year, it is only partially open, without personnel, to serve only as a shelter. It is the endpoint of the PR-AV 17 trail, and the starting point (a “basecamp”) for attacking Pico Almanzor.
Pico Almanzor
This is an iconic spot- the highest point in the middle of the Iberian Peninsula, popular for every hiker in Spain. It is an alpine peak, located on a ridge with lower peaks on both sides, and steep slopes. Several trails lead to the peak, and they are quite challenging.
From Refugio Elola, the ascent to Pico Almanzor is the classic alpine route of Sierra de Gredos.
The trail begins behind the hut and climbs steeply through rocky boulders toward the Portilla del Crampón (2,470 m). This is the key mountain pass — in summer it’s a steep but non-technical scramble, while in spring or winter crampons and an ice axe are essential.
From the pass, a short but demanding section of granite slabs leads to the summit of Almanzor, the highest peak of the Central System.
Expect about 2 h–2 h 30 min ascent from Refugio Elola, with 650 m elevation gain.
In clear weather, the views span across Castile, the Tiétar valley, and the distant Sierra de Guadarrama.
⚠️Technical note: although it’s a popular route, the upper part involves some light scrambling (grade I–II). In icy or snowy conditions, equipment and experience are mandatory.
The wild southern route to Pico Almanzor
This is a much wilder, more challenging, and off-the-beaten-path option to reach Pico Almanzor.
🧭 Alternative Route: R14 from Candeleda (South Approach)
The R14 trail approaches Pico Almanzor from the southern slopes of Sierra de Gredos, starting near
Candeleda (province of Ávila). It ascends through the Garganta de Tejea valley, passing the historic
Refugio del Rey and the Puerto de Candeleda (2,000 m). From there, the path joins the final section to Almanzor’s summit.
This route is longer and steeper than the northern PR-AV-17, requiring about 6–7 hours and solid navigation skills.
But it offers magnificent solitude and views of the southern valleys and Mediterranean foothills.
Other hiking routes in the Gredos Cirque area
1️⃣ Laguna Grande Circular
A scenic 3 h loop circling the lake from Refugio Elola, ideal for photography and bird-watching. Easy-moderate, minimal ascent (~150 m).
2️⃣ Pico Morezón (2 389 m)
Accessible from Plataforma de Gredos via the trail PR-AV-16. Around 3 h one way; gentler than Almanzor but with equally panoramic views over the Circo de Gredos.
3️⃣ Lagunas del Gutiérrez & Laguna Grande del Venero
Less-frequented glacial lakes east of the main cirque, reached from Navacepeda de Tormes. Offers solitude and pristine scenery (5–6 h total).
4️⃣ Laguna del Cura and Cabeza Nevada
A demanding full-day route from Plataforma via Los Barrerones to the wild northern basins of Gredos — suitable for experienced hikers.
5️⃣ Puerto de Candeleda & Refugio del Rey
Historic path used by shepherds and mountaineers; moderate, 4 h from Plataforma. The ruined “King’s Refuge” offers a glimpse into the early 20th-century mountain history.
6️⃣ Circular de las Cinco Lagunas (from Navalperal de Tormes)
A multi-day trek (2 days, ~22 km) through remote alpine basins north of Almanzor — the most impressive long route in the Gredos massif.
Useful tips
This is what the central part of Sierra de Gredos looks like. Take a look at some additional information to help you arrange your trip to this amazing place.
Transportation
If you don’t have your own transport, reaching Plataforma de Gredos, the starting point of the trail, is a bit challenging. Here is what you need to know:
🚌 How to get to Sierra de Gredos by Bus
Primary Destination: Hoyos del Espino
The most practical bus destination for accessing the Cirque of Gredos and the
Plataforma de Gredos road is Hoyos del Espino
(from Madrid: Estación Sur de Autobuses).
Operators & Lines
- CEVESA – Line VAC-151 (Madrid ⇄ Hoyos del Espino).Reference sources confirm this line serves Hoyos del Espino.
- Grupo SAMAR – regional services around Ávila with connections toward Gredos.
Sample Duration & Prices
- Madrid → Hoyos del Espino: ~3h–3h15m; prices from ~€15 (check current fare before travel).
- Ávila → Gredos area: regional services; timings vary (verify close to travel date).
Note: Schedules can change seasonally. Always verify the latest times and fares on the operator’s website or sales platforms.
Getting from Hoyos del Espino to Plataforma de Gredos
- No regular direct public bus is reliably published online to the Plataforma car park.Most travelers continue by taxi/transfer from Hoyos del Espino (≈12 km uphill).
- Seasonal shuttles (lanzadera): not consistently documented; availability varies by season.Check locally (tourist office / park center) shortly before your hike.
Taxi / Local Transfer
- Local taxi services operate transfers Hoyos del Espino ⇄ Plataforma de Gredos (ask your hotel/campsite to call one).
Useful Contacts & Booking
- CEVESA (VAC-151):cevesa.es · Tel: +34 915 39 31 32
- Tickets & schedules (aggregators):Omio,Busbud
- Tourist Info (Hoyos del Espino):local town website / tourist office for latest seasonal notes.
Practical Tips
- Buy tickets online in advance on busy weekends/holidays.
- Plan extra time for the taxi/transfer up to the Plataforma car park.
- If a shuttle is mentioned locally, confirm the last return time is the same day.
If you choose the wild option- skipping Laguna Grande but attacking Pico Almanzor from the south (on the trail R14)- here is what you have to know about the transport options:
🚐 How to reach the R14 Southern Route (Candeleda – Pico Almanzor)
The R14 trail starts on the southern slopes of Sierra de Gredos,
near the towns of Candeleda and El Raso (province of Ávila).
Public transport is available up to Candeleda, from where the trailhead can be reached by taxi or local transfer.
🚌 Bus Connections to Candeleda
- From Madrid (Estación Sur de Autobuses) – operated by Grupo SAMAR.Duration: ~3 h 30 min · Price: from €14–€17 (depending on the schedule).gruposamar.es
- From Ávila – regional buses by Grupo SAMAR or Auto Res, usually via Arenas de San Pedro (check seasonal frequency).
- From Talavera de la Reina – several daily buses to Candeleda (~1 h 20 min, €6–€8), convenient if arriving from Toledo or the south.
🚕 Local Access to the R14 Trailhead
- The trailhead lies near El Raso village, about 10 km northwest of Candeleda.From Candeleda, take a local taxi (≈ 10–12 min) or hike part of the scenic road upward.
- Local taxi service: Taxi Candeleda · Tel: +34 639 342 823(taxicandeleda.com)
🗺️ Tips for Hikers
- Public transport is reliable only up to Candeleda — plan a taxi for the final ascent to El Raso / Puerto de Candeleda.
- In summer weekends, some local lodges arrange private transfers to the trailhead — ask when booking accommodation.
- Nearest accommodation: rural houses in El Raso and hotels in Candeleda.
Summary: For the southern approach (R14), travel via Candeleda by SAMAR bus from Madrid or Ávila,
Then continue by local taxi to El Raso, the starting point of the hike to Pico Almanzor.
Another option is to join an organized tour. I am not a fan of organized tours- I always prefer the freedom to organize my own itinerary as I like. But everybody is different, so if you want to check it as an option, look below:
🗺️ Organized & Guided Tours — Sierra de Gredos (incl. Plataforma)
Hand-picked guided options around Plataforma de Gredos, Circo de Gredos and the southern valleys (Candeleda/La Vera). Replace YOUR_ID with your affiliate ID.
Guided Hike in Sierra de Gredos (Vettón Forest)
Interpretive hike exploring flora, fauna, and Vetton culture with panoramic viewpoints over Jerte/Ambroz — great soft-adventure add-on to a Plataforma day.
3-Day Trek: Almanzor & La Galana Circuit
Classic hut-to-hut trekking near Refugio Elola with certified guides — perfect if you want a structured ascent of Almanzor + nearby summits.
Family-Friendly Gredos Trek (2 Days + Hut)
Gentle two-day itinerary with an AEGM guide; ideal for first-timers who still want the hut experience by Laguna Grande.
7-Day Summer Hiking — High Valleys of Gredos
Self-guided package with logistics, maps and support; easy summit add-ons and river-pool swims. Good pairing with a Plataforma day.
Gredos & La Vera Experience (Group Program)
Guided ridge hikes incl. Morezón panoramas, Trocha Real and classic views into the Cirque.
2-Day Guided Hiking & Camping — Gredos
Compact backpacking loop through gorges, lagoons and granite cirques — great for adventurous travelers coming from Madrid.
Trek: Galayos & Circo de Gredos (3–4 days)
Granite needles of Galayos + Circo de Gredos in one compact program — classic Spanish guiding outfit.
Affiliate & Booking Notes
- Replace
?affid=YOUR_IDwith your platform-specific parameter (e.g., GetYourGuide usespartner_idon some accounts). - Always re-check seasons, inclusions and difficulty; some tours include Refugio Elola overnight, others are day hikes.
- For strictly Plataforma-based hikes, contact providers to ensure the start point matches your route plan.
So, after all, the best option to reach Laguna Grande and Pico Almanzor is to travel with your own transport- a car (campervan), a motorcycle, or a bicycle. The road to Plataforma de Gredos is clear, in good condition, and the parking lot is convenient.
Accommodation
You can come by car to Plataforma de Gredos, hike to Laguna Grande, and back to your car within one day. But if you want to taste more of Sierra de Gredos, or just your time should include at least one night before (or after) the hike, you need an accommodation. It can be a hotel (guesthouse), a campsite, or a mountain hut (refugio).
Hotels, hostels, or guesthouses
You can’t find such properties in the high mountain but only at the foot of Sierra de Gredos- mostly in the village of Hoyos del Espino. Take a look below for more information:
🏨 Best Hotels near Plataforma de Gredos (Hoyos del Espino / Navarredonda)
All properties are within a short drive of the Plataforma de Gredos car park via the AV-941 road. Check seasonal availability (festival weekends fill up fast).
Parador de Gredos ★★★★
Navarredonda de Gredos (on AV-941, ~10 km before the Plataforma turn-off)
- Historic stone hotel (opened 1928), lounges, restaurant; classic base for hikes.
- Free parking, Wi-Fi; pet-friendly (check conditions).
Official site ·
Tel: +34 920 348 048 ·
Email: gredos@parador.es
Hotel El Milano Real
Hoyos del Espino (views to Circo de Gredos)
- Boutique feel with library, garden and a well-reviewed restaurant/bar.
- Some rooms feature mountain views; cozy lounge with fireplace.
Official site ·
Tel: +34 608 204 504 / +34 920 349 108
Hospedium Hostal Almanzor
Navarredonda de Gredos (near AV-941)
- Charming, family-run; terrace rooms with mountain views.
- On-site restaurant; strong value for money per recent reviews.
Hotel Garabatos
Navarredonda de Gredos (AV-941 km 12)
- Simple, rustic rooms; on-site restaurant with traditional cuisine.
- Free parking and Wi-Fi; good base for early starts to the Plataforma.
Official site ·
Tel: +34 920 348 415 / +34 920 348 298
Hotel Rural Cuarto de Milla
Hoyos del Espino (near Fuente del Venero)
- Small rural hotel; modern, comfy rooms; popular with riders (horse-trek options).
- Nice option inside Hoyos del Espino for quick access to AV-941.
Hotel page ·
Tel: +34 920 349 085 / +34 615 946 026
Booking tips
- Weekends with the “Músicos en la Naturaleza” festival sell out; book well in advance.
- Ask about early breakfasts for hikers heading to Plataforma de Gredos.
- Parking is useful if you plan a dawn start for PR-AV-17 or Almanzor.
If you want to find a “basecamp” closer to Plataforma de Gredos, an exciting option is to choose one of the two campsites at the foot of Sierra de Gredos- El Camping de Gredos (the closer one) or Camping Navarredonda de Gredos. Take a look for more information below:
🏕️ Recommended Campsites near Plataforma de Gredos
El Camping de Gredos
Carretera de la Plataforma de Gredos km 1,5 · 05634 Hoyos del Espino (Ávila)
- Large pine-forest site beside the Río Tormes; full facilities incl. bungalows, parcels, café and rental services. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
- Example rates: Adults ~€4.40, children ~€3.30, electricity ~€4.50. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Visit website · Tel: +34 920 207 585 / +34 615 660 897
Camping Navagredos (Navarredonda de Gredos)
Carretera Navatormes, Km 2.5 · 05635 Navarredonda de Gredos (Ávila)
- Forest-valley site near the river, with pitches, bungalows and full amenities including bar/restaurant. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- Reception tel: +34 622 716 852 · Email: info@campingnavagredos.com :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Camping Tips
- High-season (July–Aug & festival weekends) fill quickly — book early.
- Bring warm layers — nights in Sierra de Gredos get cold even in summer.
- Check whether bungalows include bedding or require rental of sleeping bags.
Finally, you can get even closer if you choose a mountain hut in the area. I already mentioned Refugio Laguna Grande (Elola), but there are a few more. The other huts (refugio) are not exactly located on the main trail PR-AV 17 but you can use them if you want to go to other, less popular routes:
🏠 Mountain Refuges around the Cirque of Gredos (and their relation to PR-AV-17)
Quick reference to the main refuges near the Plataforma de Gredos road. Notes indicate whether each one sits on, branches from, or lies away from the classic PR-AV-17 trail to Laguna Grande.
-
Refugio Laguna Grande (Elola)
Where: On the shore of Laguna Grande, at the heart of the Cirque of Gredos.
Relation to PR-AV-17: Endpoint of PR-AV-17 from Plataforma → Los Barrerones → Laguna Grande. Many hikers overnight here before summiting Almanzor.
Refs: mountain hut info and approach notes.
-
Refugio de Reguero Llano
Where: Prado de las Pozas, near the early section of the stone-paved path from the Plataforma car park.
Relation to PR-AV-17: Signed side-branch on the lower PR-AV-17 (right turn) before the climb to Los Barrerones.
Refs: local description and note about the signed junction on the PR-AV-17.
-
Refugio del Rey (ruins)
Where: Historic (ruined) shelter on the spur toward Pico Morezón above the Plataforma area.
Relation to PR-AV-17: Not on the main trail; reached via a left spur toward Morezón shortly after the PR-AV-17 begins.
Ref: route note indicating the spur toward the ruins and Morezón.
-
Refugio del Humbrazo
Where: On the ridge route toward La Mira / Galayos area (south-eastern sector of Gredos).
Relation to PR-AV-17: Different itinerary from the Plataforma area toward La Mira; not on the PR-AV-17 to Laguna Grande.
Refs: route descriptions listing Humbrazo as a waypoint on the La Mira route.
-
Refugio del Cervunal
Where: Prado del Cervunal (north side of the massif), ~1810–1814 m; restored shepherds’ hut used as a mountain refuge.
Relation to PR-AV-17: Not connected to PR-AV-17; accessed from the northern valleys (e.g., Navalperal de Tormes / Cabeza Nevada area).
Refs: coordinates and descriptive notes placing Cervunal on the north side.
-
Refugio de la Barranca
Where: Free shelter in the Garganta del Pinar / Cinco Lagunas basin, below Laguna Majalascoba (north-eastern cirques).
Relation to PR-AV-17: Not on PR-AV-17; typically used on Cinco Lagunas routes from the north (Navalperal side).
Ref: hut listing indicating location in the Cinco Lagunas/Pinar throat.
Reading this section
- On PR-AV-17 (directly): only Elola (at the lake) qualifies as the natural terminus.
- Branches from PR-AV-17: Reguero Llano (signed junction low on the trail); del Rey (ruins) via a left spur toward Morezón.
- Different itineraries (not PR-AV-17): Humbrazo (La Mira route, SE sector); Cervunal and de la Barranca (north-side approaches such as Cinco Lagunas).
Wild camping?
Wild camping in the Sierra de Gredos — including the PR-AV-17 route and Laguna Grande — is officially prohibited because the area is part of the protected Parque Regional de la Sierra de Gredos. Rangers do patrol on busy weekends and fines are possible.
The legal way to stay in the mountains is to use:
* Refugio Laguna Grande (Elola)
* Official campsites near Hoyos del Espino / Navarredonda
Some hikers discreetly bivouac (tiny tent/no camp setup) at high altitudes, but this is tolerated only when:
* the tent is pitched after dusk and removed at sunrise
* no fire, minimal footprint, leave no trace
* far from trails, lakes, and grazing areas
Still, the safest and recommended option is to book the refugio or a campground — weather is unpredictable and mobile coverage is limited.
Food
You can find restaurants and mini markets only at the foot of Sierra de Gredos- in the nearest villages, and in the two campsites described above. The only other option is some basic food in Refugio Laguna Grande (Elola), only in the summer season. So, keeping this in mind, prepare your food in advance and bring it with you according to your itinerary.
Mobile signal
The mobile signal doesn’t cover the whole area around Laguna Grande and Pico Almanzor. You are in coverage in Plataforma de Gredos and on the trail to Los Barrerones (although partially in some spots). But beyond Los Barrerones, when you approach the circus of Laguna Grande, you are in the wild- no mobile signal.
So, consider this accordingly. The trail to Laguna Grande is very clear, and you would not get lost (therefore, you don’t have a special need for online maps). But just in case, I would suggest downloading an offline map or buying a paper map to bring with you.
Seasons
The Sierra de Gredos is a true high-mountain environment, and conditions around Laguna Grande, the PR-AV 17 trail, and Pico Almanzor can change rapidly. Even though the approach begins at the Plataforma de Gredos (≈1,750 m), the route climbs into rugged cirque terrain, often exposed to strong winds, intense sun, and sudden storms. Pico Almanzor, at 2,592 m, is the highest peak in central Spain, and the weather at the summit is significantly more severe than in the nearby valleys.
Spring (April–June)
Spring brings melting snow, rushing streams, and cool, fresh air.
* Conditions: snow patches often persist into late May, especially near Laguna Grande and along the ascent to Almanzor.
* Temperature: typically cool; nights still cold.
* Notes: microspikes and trekking poles can be very useful early in the season. The route is beautiful but can be slippery and wet.
Summer (July–September)
This is the most popular and reliable hiking season.
* Conditions: mostly snow-free trails, long daylight, stable weather.
* Temperature: warm days at lower elevations, but cool nights around the lagoon.
* Storms: afternoon thunderstorms are possible, especially in late summer — start early.
* Notes: the boulder fields near Laguna Grande and the scramble toward Almanzor require good footwear. Sunscreen and plenty of water are essential — there is little shade.
Autumn (October–November)
Autumn offers crisp air and dramatic colors on the plateau.
* Conditions: temperatures fall quickly; frost and early snow are possible by late October.
* Visibility: mornings can bring fog in the cirque.
* Notes: a great time for photography, but be prepared for winter-like conditions at higher elevations.
Winter in Sierra de Gredos (Laguna Grande trail)
The Laguna Grande trail is open year-round, but winter (Nov–Apr) brings snow, ice, and fast-changing weather, especially on Los Barrerones pass (1,800 m). Laguna Grande may freeze and visibility can drop quickly.
Expect:
-
snow & ice above 1,700 m
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icy granite slabs and frozen streams
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short daylight and strong winds
Recommended gear:
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microspikes or crampons (Almanzor requires full winter kit + experience)
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trekking poles
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thermal layers + waterproof shell
Tip: check conditions at the Plataforma ranger hut before starting.
❓ FAQ – PR-AV 17, Laguna Grande & Pico Almanzor
How long is PR-AV 17 and how hard is it?
≈6.4 km one way; allow 1h30–2h down to the lagoon (longer on the return). It’s well-marked and stony with a sustained climb to Los Barrerones, then a descent to the lake. Rated easy–moderate for fit hikers.
What’s the elevation profile?
Plataforma (≈1,770 m) → Los Barrerones (≈2,175 m) → Laguna Grande (≈1,940 m). Net gain on the way in, regain on the way out.
Where do I park, and are there fees?
Park at Plataforma de Gredos (end of AV-931). A gate may charge a small seasonal fee for cars/vans/buses during posted hours. Outside those hours, it’s typically free; always follow the on-site signage.
Is there water on the trail?
Yes, a signed fountain at Fuente de los Cavadores (above Prado de las Pozas). In dry spells treat sources; bring enough water in summer.
Is there a mobile signal at the lagoon?
Often no. Expect patchy to no coverage beyond Los Barrerones and around Laguna Grande. Download offline maps and don’t rely on the phone for emergencies.
Can I camp by the lake?
Wild camping is officially prohibited in the Regional Park. Stay at Refugio Laguna Grande (Elola) or use official campsites in Hoyos del Espino / Navarredonda.
What about the ascent of Pico Almanzor?
From Elola: 2–2.5 h up with ~650 m gain via Portilla del Crampón. Final slabs require care; in spring/winter you’ll need crampons and an ice axe.
Is R14 (southern approach) suitable for me?
R14 from Candeleda/El Raso is longer, wilder, and steeper, with sparse transport. Great for experienced hikers; plan a taxi to the trailhead.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes on leash. Summers are hot and granite is abrasive—carry water and mind the heat.
Can I fly a drone?
Not near wildlife or over crowds; park rules and Spanish regulations apply. Check current restrictions and no-fly layers before you go.
Guided or self-guided?
Self-guided is straightforward to the lagoon in summer. For Almanzor in snow/ice, consider a certified guide.
Sierra de Gredos rewards hikers who read the land first and then follow its lines. On PR-AV 17 you’ll see how the granite cirque funnels weather and water toward Laguna Grande, and why the ascent of Pico Almanzor feels like a natural extension rather than an add-on. Plan around the exposure, carry layers and water, don’t rely on signal, and let the landscape do the guiding.
Read more in our Iberian Peninsula travel guide.
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Hi, we are Krasen and Ying Ying. Krasen is from Bulgaria, and Ying Ying is from China. We are passionate about geography and history, and we believe that the best way to experience it is by exploring the Earth in reality, not in a school, and not virtually.
So, we created this blog Journey Beyond the Horizon, where we share geographical knowledge, travel guides and tips how to experience it when you explore our planet, and a lot of inspiration.
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