Navalagamella, Zarzalejo, and Valdemorillo Loop

This route offers a varied terrain typical of the Madrid Sierra foothills. You'll encounter sections of dirt tracks, some rocky paths, and potentially loose gravel, especially on descents. The route includes named sections like Camino de Cañal Cojo and Colada del Camino de la Crucijada, which are generally well-defined but can have technical spots. Expect some climbs and descents, as indicated by the moderate difficulty.

The route is circular and can be started from several points in Navalagamella, Zarzalejo, or Valdemorillo. For convenient access, look for public parking areas within these towns. Specific parking details are not provided, but starting from Navalagamella often offers good options.

Given its 'moderate' difficulty rating, this route is generally not recommended for absolute beginners. While it doesn't feature extreme technical sections, the distance of over 36 km and the cumulative elevation gain of nearly 550 meters require a good level of physical fitness and some mountain biking experience.

You'll encounter several interesting spots. Keep an eye out for the View of Cerro Alarcón and Madrid, the historical Fresnedillas Civil War Bunker, and the unique Rock Formation with Stairs in the Dehesa de Robledo. The route also passes by the Vado del Río Perales, offering a scenic river crossing.

Spring and autumn are generally the best seasons for mountain biking this route. The temperatures are milder, and the landscape is vibrant. Summer can be very hot, especially midday, so if you ride then, start early. Winters can be chilly, but clear days are often pleasant.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on this route. However, as parts of the trail pass through natural areas and potentially near livestock, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash, especially in the Dehesa sections, to ensure their safety and respect wildlife.

No, you do not need any specific permits or have to pay entrance fees to ride this mountain bike route. It is freely accessible to the public.

Yes, as this route is within the Parque Regional del Curso Medio del río Guadarrama y su entorno, it's important to follow general park regulations. This includes staying on marked trails, respecting wildlife, not littering, and being mindful of other users. Mountain biking is generally permitted on designated paths, but always check for any temporary restrictions.

Yes, this route intersects with several official trails. You'll find sections that overlap with the Cañada R. Leonesa, Cordel del Puente de San Juan, and the Vereda del Camino de Robledo de Chavela. It also briefly touches parts of the GR10 long-distance path.

The route passes through or near the towns of Navalagamella, Zarzalejo, and Valdemorillo. These towns offer opportunities to find cafes, restaurants, or shops where you can refuel and rehydrate. It's always a good idea to carry enough water and snacks for the duration of your ride, especially between towns.

For this moderate mountain bike ride, you should bring a well-maintained mountain bike, a helmet, sufficient water (at least 2-3 liters), energy snacks, a basic repair kit (spare tube, pump, multi-tool), and appropriate clothing for the weather. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also recommended, especially during sunny periods.