Natural monuments around Garganta De Los Montes serve as a gateway to the landscapes of the Alto Lozoya Valley and the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park. This region, nestled in the Sierra Norte of Madrid, features diverse natural attractions. The area is characterized by its mountainous terrain, dense forests, and significant water bodies. These natural features provide opportunities for outdoor exploration and offer expansive views of the surrounding environment.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Highlight • Forest
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Gorge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more natural monuments around Garganta De Los Montes.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
This large pine forest is located within the municipality of Canencia and is easily accessible via forest tracks from the Canencia Pass, coming from the south (Miraflores de la Sierra and Madrid) or from the north (Canencia in the Lozoya Valley). It can also be reached via a longer approach from the M-611 road through the Collado del Hontanar pass (1,731 m).
1
0
In the Middle Ages, the inhabitants of Bustarviejo had to pay a “toll” of half a bushel to use this pass to carry grain to be ground at the water mills in the Lozoya Valley. Hence the name of this pass. From the pass we can see the Carpetanos Mountains of Somosierra, part of the Lozoya Valley and the entire Sierra Norte of Madrid.
1
0
A hill that separates the Sierra de la Cabrera from the Sierra de Canencia
0
0
At the end of the Medio Celemín pass we find this rock formation, with views of all the Cabrera cliffs. ideal to rest and take some photos
0
0
Built in 1972 and belonging to the Isabel II canal, the El Atazar reservoir is the largest in Madrid, housing 46% of the community's impounded water. Located in a rugged enclave full of slate, the landscape that surrounds the reservoir and that is born from its waters is spectacular, giving way to monumental natural routes and walks through its surrounding historic towns.
1
0
Built in 1972 and belonging to the Isabel II canal, the El Atazar reservoir is the largest in Madrid, representing 46% of the community's embalmed water. Located in a rugged enclave full of slate, the landscape that surrounds the reservoir and that is born from its waters is spectacular, giving way to monumental natural routes and walks through its surrounding historical towns.
1
0
Mountain pass located north of Valdemanco in the Cañada Real Segoviana that runs between the Sierra de la Cabrera and the Sierra de Canencia. Large place to enjoy the landscape and rest briefly before beginning the descent.
1
0
This forest of birch, yew, pine and holly, located near the port of Canencia, is home to the source of the Sestil del Maíllo stream. Without a doubt, the perfect place for a walk at any time of the year, with easy access from Bustarviejo or the port itself.
1
0
The region boasts a variety of natural features, including significant reservoirs, dense forests, and scenic mountain passes. Highlights include the impressive El Villar Reservoir and Gorge, known for its spectacular views and as one of the oldest working dams. The Mojonavalle Forest offers panoramic views of the Canencia valley, while Puerto del Medio Celemín provides expansive vistas of the Carpetanos Mountains and the Sierra Norte of Madrid. Additionally, the El Atazar Reservoir is the largest in Madrid, set in a rugged, scenic landscape.
Yes, several natural monuments are suitable for families. The El Villar Reservoir and Gorge is considered family-friendly, offering easy walks and picnic spots. The Mojonavalle Forest is also a great option for walks throughout the year, with tranquil settings. The El Atazar Reservoir also offers family-friendly routes and walks.
The area around Garganta De Los Montes is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, cycling, and gravel biking. For hiking, consider routes like the 'Embalse de El Villar via the Río Lozoya' or the 'Gorge of the Mountains – Mondalindo Summit loop'. Cycling enthusiasts can explore the 'Pinilla Reservoir Viewpoint' loop or the 'Puentes Viejas Dam – El Villar Reservoir and Gorge' loop. Gravel biking options include the 'Plaza de España, Rascafría – La Morcuera Pass loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the hiking, cycling, and gravel biking guides for the region.
Absolutely. The region offers a diverse range of hiking trails. For example, you can hike around the El Villar Reservoir and Gorge, which is ideal for excursions. The Mojonavalle Forest also provides a perfect setting for walks. For more challenging options, consider the 'Gorge of the Mountains – Mondalindo Summit loop' or the 'PR-M 29: Garganta de los Montes to Canencia Loop'. Detailed hiking routes can be found in the Hiking around Garganta De Los Montes guide.
Yes, the area is popular for cycling, including road cycling and gravel biking. The El Villar Reservoir and Gorge is a recommended spot for road bike excursions. The Canencia Pass, while not a highlight in this guide, is also renowned for its pleasant ascent and stunning scenery for cyclists. You can explore various routes in the Cycling around Garganta De Los Montes and Gravel biking around Garganta De Los Montes guides.
For some natural monuments, parking is available. For instance, next to the El Villar Reservoir and Gorge, there is a small parking lot that can accommodate about 10 cars. For other locations, it's advisable to check specific access points or nearby towns for parking facilities.
The Mojonavalle Forest is described as a perfect place for a walk at any time of the year. However, for mountain passes like Puerto del Medio Celemín, it is noted that the climb is 'not suitable for summer,' suggesting spring, autumn, or even winter (with appropriate gear) might be more comfortable. Generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes for exploring the region's natural beauty.
The Mojonavalle Forest is an excellent choice for a dense forest walk. It features a uniform Scots pine forest with trees reaching up to thirty meters, along with birch, yew, and holly trees. It's easily accessible via forest tracks from the Canencia Pass or from Bustarviejo, offering a tranquil escape into nature throughout the year.
Yes, the area is home to several significant reservoirs. The El Villar Reservoir and Gorge offers spectacular views and is one of the oldest working dams in the region. The El Atazar Reservoir is the largest in Madrid, providing monumental natural routes and walks. The Pinilla Reservoir, located in the upper reaches of the Lozoya River, also offers exceptional panoramic views and quiet walks around its perimeter.
The Puerto del Medio Celemín, located north of Valdemanco, offers extensive views of the Carpetanos Mountains of Somosierra, part of the Lozoya Valley, and the entire Sierra Norte of Madrid. The Canencia Pass, while not a highlight in this guide, is also known for its stunning scenery and expansive views of the Madrid plain and mountain peaks.
The terrain around Garganta De Los Montes is characterized by its mountainous nature. You can expect varied landscapes, from the dense forests of Mojonavalle Forest to the gorges and dam structures of El Villar Reservoir and Gorge. Mountain passes like Puerto del Medio Celemín involve climbs, and the region includes peaks like Mondalindo, offering challenging hikes and rewarding vistas.
While specific regulations for each natural monument regarding dogs may vary, many natural areas in the Sierra Norte of Madrid are generally dog-friendly, especially on trails where dogs are kept on a leash. The Mojonavalle Forest, for instance, is a popular spot for walks that many visitors enjoy with their pets. It's always recommended to check local signage or specific park rules before visiting.
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural beauty and the opportunities for outdoor exploration. The komoot community has shown significant appreciation, with over 30 upvotes and 10 photos shared for the natural monuments. People particularly enjoy the spectacular views from places like El Villar Reservoir and Gorge, the tranquil walks through dense forests like Mojonavalle Forest, and the expansive vistas from mountain passes such as Puerto del Medio Celemín.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Garganta De Los Montes: