Aspects of Avila

• 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 hotel - gastronomic cuisine - excellent value
• Possible day trips to beautiful Avila, 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.

This independent single centre walking holiday is based in the northern half of the Sierra at the perfectly situated AAAAA rural retreat, El Milano Real, in the tiny village of Hoyos del Espino. Nestled at the edge of the Gredos Regional Park, and with the jagged peaks forming a breathtaking backdrop, this region offers a wealth of varied walking routes. Choose from gentle meadow strolls through flower filled river valleys, or opt for comfortable higher level hikes (the park is at 1800m) where you're likely to meet wild Ibex goats and spot huge griffon vultures soaring overhead. So you can really get to know the entire region, we have included complimentary car hire as well as route notes for optional day walks in the southern half of the Sierra - a contrasting cluster of tiny Mediterranean villages tucked away among terraces of olives, figs and vines. The beautiful historic cities of Avila and Salamanca are also easy day trips.

You'll eat well on this holiday too, with outstanding gastronomic menus and a la carte picnics on all walking days. In the evenings, expect mouth-watering temptations such as venison with wild berries or beef carpaccio with foie gras shavings and mustard vinaigrette. With an extensive wine cellar of more than 500 Spanish wines your hosts, Teresa and Paco, will introduce you to some of those available - we've included wine on the first evening to give you a taste of what's on offer. The excellent Aguas de Gredos spa centre is just next door - great for aching muscles - with 10% discount offered to Headwater guests.