Viewpoints in Sierra de Guadarrama
The beauty of the Sierra de Guadarrama is indisputable, there’s no need to prove it, it speaks for itself. But just in case someone doubts it, there are the viewpoints, either natural or man-made. Their main purpose is to contribute to the correct interpretation of the region’s main landscapes, that is, to enhance their beauty even more and show them from a privileged spot.
The Sierra de Guadarrama is rich in viewpoints. Each one has something special, but if we had to select the most relevant ones, we could choose eight, as selected in the book Lectura del Paisaje de la Comarca Alto Guadarrama Alto Manzanares: Un Legado Histórico, published by ADESGAM.
Alto del Hilo Viewpoint
From the Alto del Hilo hill viewpoint in Becerril de la Sierra, you can observe the Sierra in a 360-degree panorama. By simply turning your body or positioning yourself in different ways, you can see La Maliciosa and Bola del Mundo to the north, Cabeza Mediana to the south, Cuerda de los Porrones to the east, and Cerro de las Cabezas to the west.
Pelona Viewpoint
In Cercedilla, you shouldn’t miss the views from the Mirador de la Pelona, where you can observe, in the foreground, the green fields that form the Cercedilla-Los Molinos depression.
Guadarrama Viewpoint
In Guadarrama, there is the homonymous viewpoint, from which many of the most important peaks of the Sierra can be seen, such as La Maliciosa and Cabeza Mediana. It’s easily accessible and offers excellent panoramas of Cercedilla – Los Molinos – Guadarrama.
Navacerrada Reservoir Dam Viewpoint
Likewise, if you stroll around the Navacerrada reservoir, don’t forget to look at the horizon, because you can also see spectacular views of the dam and the Navacerrada depression. It’s an excellent spot for birdwatching, especially for observing the waterfowl that inhabit this body of water.
Monte de ‘El Chaparral’ Viewpoint
The Mirador del Chaparral is also one that impresses. Located in Manzanares El Real, it offers a full view of Cuerda Larga, the La Pedriza group, and the Samburiel and Manzanares valleys. From here, you can also see the town in its entirety, almost like a postcard. In the same town, there is the Quebrantaherraduras Viewpoint, which offers a view of the central sector of Cuerda Larga and the upper section of the Manzanares River.
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Virgen del Rosario Ermita Viewpoint
In the municipal area of Soto del Real, there is the Virgen del Rosario Ermita Viewpoint, offering a wide panoramic view of the region and its surrounding areas.
San Antonio Ermita Viewpoint
In Navacerrada, there is the San Antonio Ermita Viewpoint, from which you can enjoy unmatched views of Cerro de la Golondrina, La Maliciosa, and the Navacerrada Reservoir itself.
Quebrantaherraduras Viewpoint
This viewpoint is located in La Pedriza, Manzanares El Real, and offers excellent views. Among them, you can highlight the impressive granite formations of La Pedriza, Cuerda Larga, a pine forest, and the headwaters of the Manzanares River.
