SECRETS OF THE SIERRA (FURTHER DETAILS)

General information:
The walking on this holiday is pretty standard for 2-boot level with no major difficulties, except for the ascent to San Esteban del Valle on day 5. This is because the route follows a stone Roman road so may be tiring for people with weak knees.

Aside from this the walking follows earthen paths, limestone tracks and small sections of asphalt.

Location:
The holiday is based in the Sierra de Gredos, a mountain range to the north west of Madrid in the central region of Castille-Leon. The Sierra de Gredos is a high reaching mountain chain with peaks up to 2500m so the backdrop of mountains to the walks is spectacular.

We spend the first 4 nights of the holiday in the northern half of the Gredos at Hoyos del Espino and the last three nights in the south at San Esteban del Valle. There is an abrupt difference between the two halves with the area around Hoyos del Espino being characterised by sub-Alpine flora with pines, verdant valleys and limpid rivers. The southern slope has a sub-tropical flora with holm oaks, olives and citrus trees.

Who would this holiday appeal to?
People who want to see a different, undiscovered side of Spain. Hardly any tourists come here, especially not British ones.

Bird lovers - the Sierra de Gredos is a bird lovers paradise. Many different species of birds of prey, vultures and smaller birds.

Gastronomes - both hotels have excellent restaurants. Wine lovers will also be happy with the amazing variety of Spanish and international wines available at both hotels.

Similar to which other holidays?
The walking is similar to that on the 'Secrets of Andalucia' holiday, however this holiday is independent.

Possibility of non-standard departures?
We are able to look into the possibility of non standard departures on this holiday- please call for details.

Other details:
All meals are included; gourmet breakfast, a la carte picnics and evening meals.

Coffee is included with evening meals but all other drinks must be purchased locally. (A drink is included with the picnic, however it is probably not enough if people are going to be out walking all day)