4.0
(2)
498
runners
40
runs
Jogging around Valdepeñas de la Sierra offers routes through diverse landscapes within the Sierra Norte de Guadalajara Natural Park. The region features unique geological formations like the Cárcavas, which are extensive gullies formed by water erosion. Runners can explore areas shaped by the Jarama and Lozoya rivers, creating scenic canyons and river views. The terrain includes varied forests, from beeches and oaks to pine, alongside mountainous sections with significant elevation changes.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
11
runners
This difficult 10.3-mile (16.6 km) circular trailrunning route from Pontón de la Oliva offers diverse terrain and historical sights along th
101
runners
21.5km
03:09
950m
950m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

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29
runners
18.4km
02:42
740m
740m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
20
runners
27.0km
03:40
970m
970m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
8
runners
7.86km
00:52
170m
170m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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start from the dam
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Beautiful place where people go for a walk or to climb.
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The Pontón de la Oliva is a Spanish dam located in the Ayllón mountain range, northeast of the Community of Madrid and northwest of the province of Guadalajara. It was built in 1857 and is currently disused. This dam is the sixth and last in the course of the Lozoya River, and is the oldest of the entire system of dams and canalizations of the Canal de Isabel II. This canal supplies drinking water to Madrid and a large part of the community. The height of the Pontón de la Oliva Dam is approximately 30 meters. If you are interested in exploring the area, there are routes that take you to the Cárcavas de Pontón de la Oliva, a curious geological formation in the Community of Madrid. In addition, you can enjoy a route along the Pontón de la Oliva to the Lozoya River, which offers impressive views. I hope you find this information interesting! 😊
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Spectacular views, generally good climb with some demanding sections before crossing the firebreak. the rest, quite bearable
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Cancho de la Cabeza, the highest peak in the municipality of Patones, rises majestically in the Sierra Norte region of Madrid. This beautiful natural viewpoint offers panoramic views of the El Atazar reservoir and, in the background, you can see the Peña de la Cabra, one of the numerous peaks of the Ayllón mountain range.
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Cancho de la Cabeza, the highest peak in the municipality of Patones, rises majestically in the Sierra Norte region of Madrid. This beautiful natural viewpoint offers panoramic views of the El Atazar reservoir and, in the background, you can see the Peña de la Cabra, one of the numerous peaks of the Ayllón mountain range. Remember that Patones de Arriba is a small “kingdom” near Madrid, full of charm and tradition. Enjoy the natural beauty and stunning views that Cancho de la Cabeza offers! 🏞️🌄
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Do not confuse Patones de Arriba, the town of black architecture that lives off tourism, with Patones de Abajo. The latter was founded after the Spanish Civil War, and most of the Patoneros moved there. Although Patones de Arriba is practically uninhabited today, some older people still cling to their roots. Before visiting Patones de Arriba, keep in mind that parking there is complicated, so I recommend leaving your car in the Patones de Abajo parking lot.
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Be careful with parking tickets. I won't go back there again. You are warned.
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There are over 40 dedicated running routes around Valdepeñas de la Sierra, offering a wide range of experiences for all fitness levels. These include 1 easy, 9 moderate, and 32 difficult routes.
Yes, while many routes in the region are challenging, there are options suitable for beginners and families. For example, the Running loop from El Cubillo de Uceda is a moderate 4.9-mile trail that takes about 52 minutes to complete, offering varied rural landscapes without extreme elevation changes.
Jogging in Valdepeñas de la Sierra offers incredibly diverse landscapes. You'll encounter the unique 'Martian landscape' of the Cárcavas, formed by extensive water erosion, as well as scenic river views along the Jarama and Lozoya rivers. The routes also traverse varied forests, including beeches, oaks, and pines, all within the stunning Sierra Norte de Guadalajara Natural Park.
Yes, many of the running trails in Valdepeñas de la Sierra are circular, providing convenient starting and ending points. A notable example is the Presa de la Parra from Pontón de la Oliva — circular trailrunning through the Cañada de la Caleriza, a 10.3-mile route exploring historic dams and river canyons.
Beyond the natural beauty, you can discover several points of interest. The historic Pontón de la Oliva dam is a significant landmark. Some routes, like the Cancho de la Cabeza Summit – Patones de Arriba loop from Patones de Abajo, offer views towards the Cancho de la Cabeza Summit. The nearby picturesque village of Patones de Arriba, known for its 'black architecture,' is also a cultural highlight.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 2 reviews. Runners often praise the distinctive geological formations like the Cárcavas, the challenging yet rewarding elevation gains, and the opportunity to explore diverse natural environments within the Sierra Norte Natural Park.
Absolutely. The mountainous terrain and river valleys provide numerous opportunities for scenic vistas. Routes that ascend to higher points, such as the Cancho de la Cabeza Summit – Patones de Arriba loop from Patones de Abajo, offer expansive views. You can also find viewpoints overlooking the El Atazar Reservoir, such as the View of El Atazar Reservoir.
Yes, the Jarama and Lozoya rivers traverse the area, creating beautiful river views and dramatic canyons. The Presa de la Parra from Pontón de la Oliva route, for instance, explores river canyons, and the Cañada de la Caleriza offers winding paths along the Lozoya River.
The diverse vegetation and varied terrain make Valdepeñas de la Sierra suitable for running across multiple seasons. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant natural colors. Summer mornings or evenings are ideal to avoid the midday heat, while winter can provide a unique experience with cooler temperatures, though some higher elevation trails might be more challenging.
Yes, the region is home to several impressive water bodies. While not directly on every running route, the El Atazar Reservoir and Vado Reservoir are significant features in the broader area, and some trails offer views of these large lakes.
As part of the Sierra Norte de Guadalajara Natural Park, the area is rich in biodiversity. You might spot various bird species, including raptors, as well as mammals like deer, wild boar, and smaller forest creatures. The diverse forests and river ecosystems provide habitats for a wide array of flora and fauna.


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