Challenging Trekking on the Cuerda Larga in Sierra de Guadarrama

Stands out for

  • • Summit nine peaks exceeding 2,100 meters in a single day
  • • 20-kilometer linear route with over 1,000 meters of cumulative elevation gain
  • • Panoramic views of the Lozoya Valley and the Pedriza del Manzanares
  • • Rugged, exposed terrain demanding experience and strong balance
  • • Start at Puerto de Navacerrada, finish at Puerto de la Morcuera—requires advance logistics planning

Description

Context

The Cuerda Larga is a mountain ridge located in the Sierra de Guadarrama, stretching from the Puerto de Navacerrada to the Puerto de la Morcuera within the National Park Sierra de Guadarrama. This high-altitude linear trek covers nearly 20 km and exceeds 2,100 meters in elevation across nine summits, with a total elevation gain of over 1,000 meters. The wind carries scents of thyme and pine, while the rocky terrain challenges hikers’ balance and stability.

The Experience

You’ll begin at the Puerto de Navacerrada, ascending the Bola del Mundo with panoramic views of the Lozoya Valley. The route continues along ridges and rocky zones toward Cabezas de Hierro Mayor and Menor, with wind echoing through the passes. The rough texture of stones beneath your boots and the crisp alpine air set the rhythm of the journey, culminating in a descent to the Puerto de la Morcuera.

For Whom

This route is suitable for experienced hikers with solid physical conditioning and prior experience in technical, high-altitude terrain. It is not recommended for beginners, individuals with vertigo, limited mobility, or those unable to arrange return transportation.

Local Context

The Sierra de Guadarrama has long served as a site for transhumance and traditional mountain practices. Nearby villages maintain strong cultural ties to the mountains, while the national park safeguards the region’s unique biodiversity and landscape.

Key Info

Difficulty

Moderate

Setting

Outdoors

Best season

All year round

Recommended Age Range

All ages

Booking required

Practical Guide

Everything you need to know about Challenging Trekking on the Cuerda Larga in Sierra de Guadarrama

Location
Expert Recommendations

Begin early to maximize daylight and ensure full visibility. Bring appropriate gear for rocky, exposed terrain and potential weather shifts. Carry at least 1.5 liters of water and sufficient food. The route demands strong fitness and prior mountain experience. Plan return transport from Puerto de la Morcuera in advance, as no public transport is available there.

Physical Requirements

Good physical fitness, experience on long routes and rocky terrain, ability to hike 20 km in mountainous conditions during a full day.

About the Area

The route runs through the Sierra de Guadarrama, within the eponymous National Park, a high-altitude region with elevations ranging from 1,760 to 2,383 meters. The starting point at Puerto de Navacerrada is accessible by car and public transport, while the endpoint at Puerto de la Morcuera requires private transportation. Nearby towns such as Miraflores de la Sierra and Soto del Real offer local access, and additional hiking trails and natural sites like the Pedriza del Manzanares are located in the surrounding area.

Offers

Best available offers for Challenging Trekking on the Cuerda Larga in Sierra de Guadarrama

Ruta de senderismo de Cuerda Larga en Navacerrada

From
€30

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