Aspects of Avila

Location: The Sierra de Gredos, Spain. Holiday type: Independent walking, single centre. Managed locally by hotelier. Activity level: 2 boots Duration: 8 days (7 nights) Hotels: Mid range/good value. Meals: Gourmet breakfast, 5 a la carte picnics and all evening meals. Prices from: Please call. Departs: Selected Sundays from 18 Mar '12 to 7 Jul '13   JFMAMJJASOND

Highlights Few people have heard of the Sierra de Gredos yet it offers some of the finest walking in Spain - from gentle strolls through flower-filled meadows to high level hikes amid mountaineous peaks, waterfalls and lagoons. Excellent hotel serving superb regional cuisine.

Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1 - Arrive in Hoyos del Espino

You arrive at Madrid airport where you pick up your hire car. It's then a 1 hour 50 minute drive to El Milano Real, your luxurious base for the next 7 nights, tucked away in the northern foothills of the Sierra de Gredos. Your host, Teresa, will welcome you with a glass of champagne as she discusses your weeks walking options with you before dinner.

Day 2 - The Seven SpringsWalk 14km/9mi/4hr

A pine carpeted track takes you first to the peaceful River Tormes then, ascending gently past wild strawberries and pink crocus, you enjoy incredible 360o views of the jagged Gredos mountains. Ibex goats cluster in the verdant pastures peppered with springs and fountains. Returning to the village, time for a drink in one of the friendly local bars before a gourmet dinner in the spectacular dining room.

Day 3 - La Laguna Grande 13km/8mi/4.5hr

This magnificent walk takes you up to the impressive Laguna Grande set between the majestic Morezon and Almanzor peaks - the latter being the highest in the Gredos at 2592m. The wild and dramatic glacial bowl is a fantastic picnic spot - look out for sure footed ibex silhouetted against the skyline. Above, red kites and huge griffon vultures soar on the thermals.

Day 4 - Navarredonda 10km/6mi/2.5hr or 16km/10mi/4.5hr

A great day for enjoying the diverse landscapes of the Northern Gredos. Wend your way across the broom-covered hillsides with long distance views to tiny white villages nestled in the vines. There are shady pine woods, and flower-filled meadows where black Avila cattle graze as you pass to reach idyllic picnic spots by the river.

Day 5 - Optional visits to Avila or Salamanca

We've left today free for independent exploring, however we strongly recommend the 50 minute drive to the historic Spanish city of Avila. Set against a backdrop of the Gredos Mountains, this walled city - many sections of the walls are still intact - dates back to C11, and its 88 towers and 9 gates are the most complete in Spain. Alternatively, Salamanca, arguably the country's most graceful city with its dual Gothic and Romanesque cathedrals, is just 90 minutes away.

Day 6 - The Morezon 13km/8mi/3.5hr or 14km/9mi/4hr

If the air is clear today, you'll feel you can see forever! It's not unusual to have 70km views south all the way across the plain to the Toledo Mountains - especially if you climb to the top of the Morezon (2392m). A real 'on top of the world' experience shared only with wild goats!

Day 7 - Waterfalls and Meadows 14km/9mi/3.5hr or 16km/11mi/4hr

If you choose to stay close to home, todays relaxed walks explore the valley of the River Tormes. You'll amble past stunning waterfalls, looking out for dippers, and then through the shady forests and alpine meadows reminiscent of Switzerland. Alternatively we provide a selection of walks in the more Mediterranean southern Gredos, just a 45 minute drive away.

Day 8 - Leave Hoyos del Espino

Drive back to Madrid to drop off your car, perhaps choosing to spend some extra nights in the city.