Hiking is an ideal year-round sport, though proper equipment is essential to avoid setbacks, whether in cold or warm seasons. This excursion aims to climb the highest peak in Segovia province - Peñalara, standing at 2,436m, near the Cotos Pass on the border with Madrid province.
Cotos was formerly a ski resort now closed as the area's been designated a natural park - well worth a visit. First, we reach Cotos car park (arrive early to avoid crowds as people come for skiing or snow activities). Beginner snow tip: avoid sliding down slopes on plastic sheets - it's more dangerous than it looks. With caution, snow days can be tremendous fun.
After parking, breakfast? There's a bar-terrace by the car park - lovely on good days. Preparation: multiple routes lead to the summit. The easiest follows the marked trail (hard to miss) - difficulty depends solely on your fitness to reach Peñalara. The path begins behind the terrace bar along the old ski slope, with signposts guiding you unmistakably to Peñalara Peak (though bypassing the lagoon).
Taking the Peñalara lagoon route means potentially icy initial sections where slipping's easy. You'll meet fellow hikers until the lagoon - a stunning vista overlooking Valdesquí ski slopes.
Follow the marked path - a perfect rest spot. The lagoon's beautiful year-round, but especially magical when frozen with valley and mountain backdrops. Continuing uphill within marked routes, we divert towards Dos Hermanas peak (visible right of Peñalara) for the challenging ascent - a spectacular rocky outcrop.
The climb involves scrambling over rocks then virgin snow. The gradient steepens where ice axes and crampons prove invaluable. As Peñalara lagoon shrinks below, the summit nears amidst breathtaking views.
Reaching the plateau reveals Segovia city. Here, choose: proceed to Peñalara's peak or descend via an alternative route - the easier marked trail we initially bypassed.
The ascent can also begin from the old ski slope - following signage ensures no difficulties. This well-trodden path suits all abilities.
Lunch calls! Discover picturesque Segovian villages like Valsaín (excellent cuisine). Descend Navacerrada Pass to find it (among others - La Granja de San Ildefonso, Torrecaballeros...). Segovian gastronomy shines here: suckling pig, lamb, and "field seafood" (chorizo, black pudding, minced meats...).
Regarding gear: take mountain conditions seriously. While not extreme altitude, winter demands basic precautions.
Essentials: proper cold-weather clothing, waterproofs, spare layers, waterproof mountain boots, quality sunglasses, and sun/lip protection. Carry nuts (emergency rations), water, and ideally a mobile. For seasoned mountaineers, ice axes and crampons. This might seem excessive but ensures comfort and safety.
Summer requires less, but boots, waterproofs and nuts remain advisable - mountain weather shifts rapidly.
We end tired but rewarded by snowy landscapes and an extraordinary Sunday. You could experience this too...
