4.8
(12)
60
hikers
Las Machotas Loop from Zarzalejo
03:13
7.96km
420m
Hiking
Explore the challenging Las Machotas circular hike from Zarzalejo, featuring unique granite formations and panoramic views over 4.9 miles.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment that may be dangerous
A part of this route comprises technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.
After 4.36 km for 4 m
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
88 m
Church of San Pedro
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
139 m
Zarzalejo
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
3.10 km
The Lower Machota
Highlight • Summit
Translated by Google •
Tip by
4.32 km
Entrecabezas Pass
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Translated by Google •
Tip by
5.24 km
El Fraile Rock Formation
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
7.96 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.38 km
1.30 km
698 m
375 m
195 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
4.33 km
1.67 km
1.07 km
521 m
375 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,440 m)
Lowest point (1,110 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Monday 18 May
22°C
10°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 12.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to hike the Las Machotas — circular desde Zarzalejo trail?
The full circular route typically takes around 3 hours and 13 minutes to complete, covering a distance of approximately 8 kilometers. This duration can vary based on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.
What is the difficulty level of this hike?
Komoot rates this trail as difficult. While some sections are moderate, the route includes significant ascents, particularly to The Lower Machota and Machota Alta, with rocky terrain and bare granite ramps. Some paths can be overgrown or less defined, so a downloaded track is highly recommended.
Where can I park for the Las Machotas — circular desde Zarzalejo trail?
The trail typically starts and ends in Zarzalejo. You can usually find parking within the town, which serves as the main access point for the route. Zarzalejo is well-connected and easily accessible from Madrid.
Is the Las Machotas — circular desde Zarzalejo trail dog-friendly?
Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, given the varied terrain, including rocky sections and potential for overgrown paths, it's advisable to keep your dog on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or near other hikers. Always ensure your dog is comfortable with challenging terrain.
What is the best time of year to hike this route?
The trail is enjoyable for much of the year, but autumn is particularly recommended. During this season, the landscape is adorned with stunning yellow and ochre hues from the changing leaves, offering a picturesque hiking experience. Clear days provide excellent visibility for panoramic views.
Are there any permits or entrance fees required to hike in the Sierra de Guadarrama for this trail?
No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the "Las Machotas — circular desde Zarzalejo" trail. The area is freely accessible for hikers. However, always respect local regulations and environmental guidelines.
What kind of views and landmarks can I expect along the way?
This route offers breathtaking panoramic views of Zarzalejo, El Escorial, San Lorenzo de El Escorial, the Valmayor Reservoir, and even Madrid on clear days. You'll encounter unique granite rock formations like the "Pico del Fraile" near El Fraile Rock Formation, and pass through Entrecabezas Pass. The trail also features ancient chestnut trees, including the centenarian Chestnut of Fuente del Rey, and historical granite quarries.
Does this trail intersect with other well-known paths?
Yes, the route partially overlaps with several other paths. You'll find sections that coincide with the 'De Valencia a Lisboa (Etapa desde San Lorenzo del Escorial a Pelayos de la Presa)' trail, as well as parts of '[CIMA MA01] Cruz Verde - La Paradilla - Robledondo' and 'Camino del Cotanillo'.
Are there water sources available on the trail?
Yes, there are natural springs along the route where you can refill your water bottles. Notable springs include Fuente del Rey and Fuente de Entrecabezas, providing refreshing stops during your hike.
What makes the geology of Las Machotas unique?
The Machotas are geologically distinct, with The Lower Machota composed of granite and Machota Alta (El Fraile) of gneiss. This creates a fascinating transition between rock types, resulting in unique and imaginatively shaped granite formations like the "Pico del Fraile" and the "Tres Ermitaños".
Are there any cafes or restaurants in Zarzalejo after the hike?
Yes, Zarzalejo is a charming town and offers amenities such as cafes and restaurants where you can relax and refuel after completing your hike.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
Las Machotas are two rugged peaks of granite cliffs between the mountain towns of Zarzalejo and San Lorenzo de El Escorial, a passage through ancient transhumant ravines and medieval roads. The itinerary track visits the two berroqueña stone peaks and runs through the ancient chestnut groves of Zarzalejo, with several centenary specimens that are included in the select catalog of Singular Trees of the Community of Madrid. The old chestnut tree of Cotanillo is a forest colossus, experts attribute more than three centuries of life to the ancient specimen of Castanea sativa, it is the largest and longest-lived chestnut tree in the province of Madrid, where few chestnut trees remain with the environmental quality and density of centenary specimens that have the beautiful chestnut groves that populate the slopes of Las Machotas, in the Madrid municipality of Zarzalejo. In the area of Fuente del Rey, another chestnut tree of monumental size and more than three centuries of life grows, also included in the catalog of Singular Trees of the Community of Madrid, which includes 280 specimens of 56 different species. The hiking excursion combines a visit to the chestnut groves with the ascent of the panoramic peaks of Las Machotas and the striking cliff known as El Fraile, in Machota Alta (1,464 m). The summit of Machota Baja (1,404 m) is optional, the route goes up and down the same place before continuing towards Machota Alta, but it is the most beautiful summit of the two twin peaks due to the views and the curious granite blocks where the geodesic vertex is located, which has a “simple” climb to reach the monolith.