Hornillo Waterfall and Monte Abantos Loop

The terrain on this route is quite varied, offering a diverse hiking experience. You'll encounter natural earth paths, paved tracks, asphalt, and unpaved tracks. There are also short sections of alpine track. Be prepared for some steep and rocky parts, particularly near the Risco del Galdano, which require good sure-footedness.

The route offers several notable features. You'll pass by the famous Chair of Philip II, a granite viewpoint with platforms carved into the rock. The trail also leads to Puerto de Malagón, offering magnificent panoramic views. Other highlights include the Río Aceña Viewpoint, the Hornillo Waterfall, the Cervunal Spring, and sections near the remains of an original dam built by Philip II.

The trail begins in San Lorenzo de El Escorial. While specific parking areas are not designated for the trailhead, the town offers various public parking options. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on busy days, to find convenient parking near your starting point.

Yes, the route is generally dog-friendly. However, as parts of the trail are within the Paraje Pintoresco del Pinar de Abantos, it is important to keep dogs on a leash to protect local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers.

The trail can be enjoyed during most seasons. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, with mild temperatures and vibrant natural colors. Summer can be hot, so an early start is recommended. Winter hiking is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially icy or snowy conditions at higher elevations.

No, you do not need any special permits or have to pay an entrance fee to hike the Ascent to Puerto Malagón circular route. The trail is freely accessible to the public, even though it passes through the Paraje Pintoresco del Pinar de Abantos.

Yes, this route incorporates sections of several other paths. You will find yourself on parts of the GR-10 Long Distance Path, as well as segments of the [CIMA MA08] Abantos * El Tomillar, [CIMA MA08] Abantos * San Lorenzo del Escorial, Senda del Hornillo, Camino de la Cancha, and the Cañada Real Leonesa «Larios».

The trail offers spectacular panoramic views. You'll get incredible vistas of the Monastery of El Escorial and its surroundings, including the La Herrería forest. From Puerto de Malagón, you can see the El Tobar reservoir and the mountains of the Sierra de la Paramera, with the Sierra del Guadarrama and even the distant Sierra de Gredos visible on clear days. The Risco del Galdano provides views of the Aceña River and the Espinosillo slopes.

Yes, the Cervunal Spring (Fuente del Cervunal) is an important landmark along the route and provides fresh water year-round. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient water for your hike, but this spring can be a reliable refill point.

The trail winds through diverse forests, including Scots pine, maritime pine, black pine, oak, maple, and cedar woods. You'll also see areas of scattered shrubs and meadows. While specific wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, the rich natural environment means you might spot various bird species, small mammals, and insects typical of the Sierra de Guadarrama region.

While rated as 'moderate,' hikers with good fitness and sure-footedness will find it enjoyable. The route is approximately 12.5 kilometers with about 540 meters of elevation gain. Some sections, particularly near the Risco del Galdano, are steep and rocky, adding to the challenge. It's a rewarding hike for those accustomed to regular physical activity.