Stage of the Camino
Tres Cantos to Manzanares el Real
From Tres Cantos To Manzanares el Real
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Destination
Distance
25.30 km
Duration
6.30 h
Difficulty
Moderate
Ascent
150 m
Stage of the Camino
Stage Description
This stage enters the Regional Park of the Upper Manzanares Valley, at the foot of the Sierra de Guadarrama. The profile is a gentle but continuous ascent, preparing the pilgrim for mountain stages. The landscape is of great beauty, with oak and beech groves, and the summits of La Pedriza as a backdrop. The route passes through Colmenar Viejo. The stage ends in the beautiful town of Manzanares el Real, dominated by its spectacular Castle of the Mendoza family, one of the medieval jewels of the Community of Madrid.
The stage that joins Tres Cantos with Manzanares el Real is a beautiful day trip that serves as an approach to the Sierra de Guadarrama. The route leaves urban surroundings and enters the Regional Park of the Upper Cuenca Valley of the Manzanares. The profile is a gentle but constant ascent, gradually gaining height. The landscape is dominated by pastures with their beeches and oaks, and spectacular granite formations of La Pedriza, which are cut off in the distance. It passes through the important village of Colmenar Viejo, which offers all services. The final stretch descends towards the Santillana dam. Arrival at Manzanares el Real is a gift for the view. This villa, located at the foot of La Pedriza and by the dam, is dominated by its magnificent Castle of the Mendoza, a 15th-century fortress-palace that is one of Spain's best preserved castles. A visit to it is indispensable. Manzanares is a perfect final stage for enjoying history and nature.
Last updated: 12/08/2025
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