Fall Nature Walk / Easy Hike with ACM
9:30AM Saturday
October 14, 2023
Bosque de la Herrería
San Lorenzo del Escorial
Join ACM friends and guide extraordinaire Lauren for an easy hike through the Bosque de la Herrería, an old forest of oak trees, with a walk along a nature path that has great views of the surrounding valley and the monastery of El Escorial. We'll also pass by the Silla de Felipe II, a carved granite platform with great views. Dog and kid (~7+) friendly.
Estimated duration once in El Escorial approximately is 4-5 hours including breaks for lunch and photos. We'll be walking at an easy pace. Estimated time back in Madrid by 6pm or earlier.
Trail details
- The trail is predominantly on flat dirt (and sometimes paved) paths, starting with a short uphill segment of about 500m that is slightly more challenging.
- Length is about 8km (5mi) round trip including a short walk to/from the train station through a park and past the monastery.
- Approximately 500ft (150m) of ascent/descent.
If we have time after the hike, we may stop for a drink on a terrace in El Escorial before heading back. The monastery is also open and is well worth the visit if you have not been.
Deadline to register is 10am October 13, 2023. Final arrangements and details will be coordinated with those who register through a Whatsapp group.
All are welcome! Looking forward to seeing you!
What to bring
- 1.5 L water
- Sandwich for lunch and any additional snacks or drinks you might like
- Comfortable clothes and sneakers or (light) hiking boots
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
- Insurance is not included. It's possible to arrange individually or we are happy to direct you to a provider of "seguro de aventuras" for the day.
How to get there:
By Train (Cercanías)
We will leave as a group from Chamartín metro station at 9:30 am. The Cercanías train is dog friendly with no need to buy a ticket for your dog, but muzzle is required. Round trip ticket price should be €6-9 depending on which station you board from (free with abono joven). Full details on the train route provided to participants.
By Car
If you prefer to drive, you can meet us in El Escorial (train station) at around 10:45am. If you have an extra spot in your car and are willing to carpool, please let us know when you sign up, and we will connect you with someone who'd like a ride. If you'd like a ride, let us know when you sign up. We suggest sharing fuel costs or other expenses with your driver.
You can also meet us at the Bosque de la Herrería parking lot if you are driving and prefer a shorter walk (about 5km (3 mi) R/T from this point).
By Bus
There is also bus service hourly from Moncloa to El Escorial (Bus 661), but the bus is not reliably dog friendly. If you take the bus, plan to be in El Escorial by 10:45am, and coordinate the meeting location.
