The 5 Most Amazing Peaks around Villanueva De La Vera

The Refugio de la laguna Grande or Refugio Elola is situated in a strategic area, from here hikers have access to the highest peaks of Gredos such as Almanzor or La Galana.

At this point on the GR-111, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the beautiful peaks of the Gredos mountain range.

Great high mountain refuge with all services

La Galana is a peak located in the Gredos mountain range, which in turn is part of the Central System mountain range. It is the second highest peak in the Central System at 2563 m above sea level. n. m.​—only surpassed by the neighboring summit of Almanzor— and has a prominence of 85 meters. No less attractive is the ascent to the second highest peak in these parts. Sitting next to the king of the Central System, "La Dama de Gredos" boasts its 2,564 meters high and has in its favor the fact that there is less traffic than in Almanzor. We are facing a highly demanding route for which not everyone is prepared and which requires the use of special material if done in winter or spring. Therefore, when planning this experience you must take the conditions in Gredos into account. And, above all, be very aware of your abilities and limitations. It's about enjoying, not taking unnecessary risks. The final access must be through the Canal de la Notch, a stone wall in which you will have to climb and climb with high percentages before reaching the geodesic point. ASPECTS TO CONSIDER: - If you are not perfectly equipped and with the appropriate footwear, don't even get out of the car. - Carry enough water and food. - Don't forget the emergency material. You have to be prepared for everything. - Starting from Laguna Grande, pay attention to the milestones so as not to lose your way. - Always keep the weather forecast in mind. The mountains can bring you unpleasant surprises. - Calculate your time well and organize an overnight stay if you must. spend the night in the mountains - Use mountaineering equipment and if you go up in the cold months, crampons and ice axes are mandatory due to the accumulated snow.

views of Gredos

La Galana, located in the large cirque of Gredos, has an altitude of 2,564 meters, being the second highest in this magnificent mountain range. With an ascent with difficult sections, it rewards the effort with the impressive views at the top. The Cirque of the Five Lagoons, the Lagunillas del Gargantón and the rest of the peaks of the cirque delight the eye with a unique alpine landscape in the central Iberian System.

This refuge, located at the foot of Almanzor at an altitude of 1,950 meters, is a guarded refuge located in the southern part of the Laguna Grande de Gredos. Opened in 1982, the shelter currently has 65 beds, as well as a dining room for breakfast and dinner, lockers, electricity and running water. It is the perfect place to spend the night if you want to do long routes in the vicinity of the circus. For conditions, reservations and rates, consult the page of the refuge: https://www.refugiolagunagrandegredos.es/

It is in this area of the mountainside that you can see large ridges that descend to the bottom of the valley where the river passes. Further on, there is the Refugio del Barquillo.