A day hike in Manzanares el Real: Exploring nature outside of Madrid

Manzanares el Real is a hidden gem for anyone looking to escape the urban chaos of Madrid and dive into nature for a day. Just an hour-long bus ride from Plaza de Castilla, this small town is the gateway to La Pedriza, a strikingly beautiful area of the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park. It’s the kind of place where jagged rock formations dominate the skyline, wildlife thrives, and the trails seem to invite exploration. My friends and I decided to take advantage of a sunny weekend and head out for a day hike—and it turned out to be one of the most memorable trips of my time in Madrid.

We started early in the morning, taking the bus while the city’s streets were still quiet. The landscape shifted gradually during the ride, from Madrid’s bustling avenues to the rolling countryside and finally to the dramatic peaks surrounding Manzanares el Real. Stepping off the bus felt like entering a different world. After stocking up on groceries for our picnic at the local Dia supermarket and grabbing a trail map from the tourism office, we were ready to set off.

The trail we chose took us into the heart of La Pedriza, where the scenery immediately grabbed our attention. Deciduous trees lined parts of the path, their golden leaves crunching underfoot in a satisfying rhythm. Massive granite formations towered around us, shaped over millennia by the elements into fantastical silhouettes that resembled castles, animals, and abstract art. It wasn’t hard to imagine why climbers from all over Spain come here to test their skills on these rocky giants.

After walking for about an hour, we stumbled upon a picturesque clearing bathed in sunlight. It was the perfect spot for our picnic. We laid out our food on a blanket, enjoying a mix of simple snacks and sandwiches we had made with fresh bread and local cheese. Above us, vultures circled gracefully, riding the thermals in search of their next meal. Their presence reminded me that La Pedriza is home to a wide variety of birds, from eagles to kestrels, and I made a mental note to bring binoculars next time.

As we ate, a curious dog trotted over from a passing group of hikers, wagging its tail and sniffing at our spread. The owner came by to apologize, but we didn’t mind—it was fun to have an unexpected visitor. Encounters like these make hiking feel communal, even among strangers. A little further down the trail, we saw a family stopped to watch a fox dart across the path, its orange coat standing out against the gray rocks. It was a reminder that the area is teeming with wildlife, even if you have to be lucky to catch a glimpse.

The trail was full of surprises. At one point, we crossed a shallow stream where dragonflies hovered, their metallic wings glinting in the sunlight. Nearby, we spotted signs of wild boar activity—upturned soil and hoofprints—though thankfully we didn’t meet any of them. Wild boars are common in the region, but they tend to stay away from busy trails. On our way back, we passed a herd of cows grazing peacefully near the path. They didn’t seem to mind our presence, occasionally lifting their heads to watch us with mild curiosity. It was such a simple but charming moment, the kind that makes you pause and appreciate the slower rhythms of rural life.

Manzanares el Real isn’t just about nature; it has a rich historical backdrop as well. The town is famous for the Castillo de los Mendoza, a 15th-century castle that stands as a symbol of the area’s medieval past. While we didn’t visit the castle on this trip, its silhouette was visible in the distance, and it’s definitely worth exploring if you have the time. The castle, like the rest of the town, feels like a bridge between history and the natural beauty surrounding it. 

By the time we made it back to the bus, the sun was beginning to dip below the horizon, casting the mountains in a warm, golden glow. We were tired but satisfied, our phones full of photos and our minds full of the day’s peaceful moments. The bus ride back to Madrid was quiet, as most of us dozed off, lulled by the gentle hum of the engine and the fading light outside.

If you’re planning a trip to Manzanares el Real, I’d recommend considering a longer stay to fully appreciate everything the area has to offer. Hostel La Pedriza is a great option for an overnight trip, with its proximity to the trails making it an ideal base for exploring La Pedriza further. Whether you’re looking for a challenging climb, a leisurely hike, or just a chance to reconnect with nature, this little corner of the Sierra de Guadarrama has something for everyone.