Stage of the Camino
Manzanares el Real to Cercedilla
From Manzanares el Real To Cercedilla
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Destination
Distance
20.40 km
Duration
6.00 h
Difficulty
Hard
Ascent
270 m
Stage of the Camino
Stage Description
This is one of the most beautiful and alpine stages of the Madrid Way. The journey enters the heart of the Guadarrama Mountains, in a high mountain environment. The profile is an ongoing and demanding ascent that takes the pilgrim through pine forest. The route passes by the village of Mataelpino. The destination is Cercedilla, a mountain village with great charm and an important mountaineering center. Its mountainous atmosphere and privileged natural surroundings make it an ideal final stage for nature lovers.
The stage between Manzanares el Real and Cercedilla is a mountain day that immerses the pilgrim in the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park. The profile is demanding, with considerable ascent requiring good physical preparation. The trail leaves Manzanares and heads towards the summits, passing through the village of Mataelpino. The route follows mountain trails that traverse dense pine forests, offering an alpine landscape of great beauty. As altitude is gained, views of the valley and rock formations in La Pedriza are spectacular. It's a stage to enjoy fresh air, forest silence, and mountain challenge. Arrival at Cercedilla marks the end of the day. This historic mountain village, with its summer homes from the early 20th century and mountaineering atmosphere, is a place with special charm. It offers all necessary services and is the perfect base for exploring the hiking trails in the area.
Last updated: 12/08/2025
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