Secrets of the Sierra

Fabulous walking in undiscovered Spain: mountain vistas, ancient Roman roads, riverside tracks, authentic villages Paradise for bird lovers: woodpeckers, red kites, griffon vultures, buzzards Charming family-run hotels - gastronomic cuisine - excellent value Possible day trips to beautiful Ávila, Toledo and Salamanca; extra nights in Madrid also offered Extensive and totally flexible walking; longer/shorter holidays also possible

Just west of Madrid, the Sierra de Gredos is Spain’s secret heartland; a vibrantly contrasting montage of mountainous peaks, thundering waterfalls, verdant plains, fragrant fruit orchards and glacial lagoons. Although flanked by the world-famous cities of Madrid, Toledo and Salamanca, the Sierra de Gredos is little known, meaning you really do explore an undiscovered side of Spain.

Our independent twin-centre walking holiday is split between the dramatically contrasting northern and southern halves of the Sierra. Your first four nights are spent at Hoyos del Espino, where you explore tranquil mountains, glistening rivers and flower filled valleys, with the jagged peaks of the Gredos forming a breathtaking backdrop. As you journey south along a spectacular ridge towards San Esteban del Valle for your final three nights, the Alpine landscape of the north softens to a warmer Mediterranean backdrop and tiny villages nestle among terraces of olives, figs and vines.

The hotels are a real highlight too: in Hoyos del Espino you’re the guest of Teresa and Paco at their perfectly situated rural retreat, El Milano Real, whereas in San Esteban del Valle, you stay at the recently restored Posada de Esquiladores, right in the heart of the village. Both hotels boast spa facilities - great for aching muscles - with 10% discount offered to Headwater guests. You’ll eat well on this holidays too, with outstanding gastronomic menus throughout even à la carte picnics on your walking days. In the evenings, expect mouth-watering temptations such as venison with wild berries, monkfish with almonds and garlic sauce or beef carpaccio with foie gras shavings and mustard vinaigrette.

Our on-line holiday shop

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