Best hiking destinations near Madrid

Madrid is surrounded by lovely green spaces and natural parks to go for a hike. The two sierras: Guadarrama and Navacerrada provide mountain and ski enthusiast with the best sites and sights. Quaint towns like Manzanares el Real and Cercedilla are surrounded by nature. So despite the restrictions we are facing nowadays, the region offers endless possibilities when it comes to embracing the outdoors.

It seems like yesterday we were saying Happy New Year and spring has already started. Now that days are longer and the weather is nice, we all start thinking about outdoor activities, right? Hiking is one of the best spring activities specially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Open spaces make it easier to keep a safe distance and connecting with nature is a great way to help our mental health right now. Let's take a look at the best hiking trails and natural destinations near Madrid.

Sierra Norte is a biosphere reserve and the most natural and rural destination of the region of Madrid. The north of Madrid is full of wonderful spots to visit and get lost in nature. Villages like Paredes de Buitrago, Berzosa de Lozoya or Serrada de la Fuente should be on your list. The wide range of activities, great gastronomy and lovely rural houses to stay in are some of its strong points. Need more reasons to visit? Check out this guide to plan your trip.

Patones de Arriba is a charming village full of stone and black-slate houses north of Madrid. Surrounded by Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range, it is a haven 45 minutes away from the capital of Spain. Patones is very popular and it is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Madrid. Be sure to wander the beautiful narrow streets and explore every single corner of Patones de Arriba. Alluring stone houses, many of which are covered in ivy, will make you want to move here and leave the stress of big cities behind. This lovely place is surrounded by hiking trails that give you great views of the area.

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Manzanares El Real is a place where you can enjoy nature, history and outdoor sports, all in one place. Visit the magnificent castle while you are in town. The imposing castle is one of the best conserved in the area and is surrounded be the even more imposing mountains of Sierra de Guadarrama National Park. Then, any nature-lover should hike at La Pedriza national park. It is one of Madrid's most popular hiking trails. If you are lucky enough, you may spot amazing fauna like vultures and the Spanish ibex.

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Cercedilla is another wonderful spot for a hike in the north of Madrid. Less than an hour from the capital, nestled in the Sierra de Guadarrama, is located this unique town. What can you find at Cercedilla? Amazing flora and fauna, idyllic landscapes and endless possibilities when it comes to active tourism. When you need to refuel, be sure to enjoy one of the best brunch menus in the region at La Petite Cuisine!

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