Senda Real and Way of St. James: Colmenar Viejo Loop

The loop starts and ends in Colmenar Viejo. You can find parking within the town itself, which offers convenient access to the trailhead. Look for public parking areas near the town center or residential streets, keeping in mind local parking regulations.

Yes, this route is generally dog-friendly. However, since parts of it pass through the Parque Regional de la Cuenca Alta del Manzanares, it's important to keep your dog on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife, and to always clean up after your pet. Be mindful of other trail users.

Spring is an ideal time to experience this loop. The fields are blooming, rivers are flowing, and the scenery is at its most vibrant. Autumn also offers pleasant temperatures and beautiful colors. Summers can be very hot, so if you go then, start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat. Winters are generally mild but can be chilly.

No, you do not need any specific permits or have to pay an entrance fee to jog this loop. It uses public rights of way, including sections of the Senda Real and Camino de Santiago. However, always respect private property and follow general trail etiquette.

The terrain is varied, combining gravel tracks, asphalt, and natural path stretches. While some sections are relatively flat, others involve slight elevation changes. You'll encounter meadows, pastures, and scrubland. Some parts, like the Arroyo Tejada trail, can be singletrack and might get muddy after rain. Overall, it requires good fitness due to its length and varied surfaces.

You'll experience diverse scenery, including views of the Sierra de Guadarrama. Key points of interest include the Hermitage of Santa Ana, the Manzanares River, and the impressive Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady in Colmenar Viejo. The route also passes through the Colada de los Gallegos.

Yes, this loop incorporates sections of several official trails. You'll be jogging along parts of the Madrid Way of Saint James (40% of the route), the GR 124 MTB (Senda Real) (32%), and the main Senda Real (32%). It also crosses smaller paths like the Colada de las Huelgas del Río Manzanares and various sections of the Colada de los Gallegos.

Yes, as parts of the route fall within the Parque Regional de la Cuenca Alta del Manzanares, it's important to respect its regulations. This includes staying on marked paths, not disturbing wildlife, not littering, and keeping dogs on a leash. These rules help preserve the natural environment and ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

Given its distance of nearly 19 km and a 'difficult' rating, this loop is generally more suitable for joggers with good fitness and some experience. While sections of the Senda Real are not technically difficult, the overall length and varied terrain might be challenging for absolute beginners. Consider shorter, easier routes if you're just starting out.

For this nearly 19 km loop, bring sufficient water, especially on warmer days, and some energy snacks. Wear appropriate jogging shoes suitable for varied terrain. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is advisable, as are layers of clothing depending on the season. A charged phone and a map or GPS device are also recommended.

Since the loop starts and ends in Colmenar Viejo, you'll find various amenities in town, including cafes, restaurants, and shops where you can purchase food and drinks before or after your jog. There are no guaranteed water sources directly on the trail itself, so carry enough water for the entire duration.