Natural Parks in Madrid

Although Madrid is best known for its vibrant city life, the region also offers protected natural spaces. The Sierra de Guadarrama Natural Park is the most significant, with rugged peaks, glacial lagoons, and pine forests. It’s a haven for hikers and wildlife lovers, with species such as the Iberian ibex and golden eagle. Other protected areas, like Cuenca Alta del Manzanares, combine rich biodiversity with cultural landmarks, including medieval castles and historic towns. These parks provide a natural escape close to Spain’s capital.

Wildlife & Walking Regions of Spain | Natural Parks by Region

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Spain’s diverse regions offer some of Europe’s best wildlife and walking experiences. From the wetlands of Andalucía to the forests of Galicia and the volcanic landscapes of the Canary Islands, each region has its own natural character.

Use this guide to explore Spain by region and find guided tours from trusted partners. Discover national parks, reserves, and the wildlife of Spain.

Andalucía – Wildlife, Mountains and Wetlands

Walking in the Sierra de Grazalema
Explore southern Spain’s most diverse landscapes, from Doñana’s wetlands to the peaks of the Sierra Nevada and Grazalema. This region is perfect for birdwatching, hiking, and year-round nature travel.
Explore Andalucías Natural Parks
View Guided Tours in Andalucía


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Peñalara Natural Park

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Peñalara Natural Park
  • Region: Madrid
  • Declared a Natural Park: 1990
  • Park surface area: 768 hectares
  • Towns and villages: Rascafria

Points of interest

Some history behind the Peñalara Natural Park

During the 1920s there was a plan to create the Guadarrama National Park due to its important ecological value. The plan never started though due to changes in government and the Spanish Civil War. The area was, however, declared a Natural Site of National Interest in 1930, with the aim of preserving the landscape from external attacks. Even with that protection, in 1969 the ski resort of Valcotos was built which occupied much of Peñalara mountain and the construction of ski lifts, small buildings, slopes and various clearings caused serious damage to the flora, fauna and the terrain.

During the 1980s, a project was created to protect the eastern slope of the Peñalara peak including the lagoons and in 1990, the Community of Madrid declared the area as a natural park of the Cumbre, Circo and Lagunas de Peñalara. From 1998 to early 2000 the ski resort of Valcotos that occupied much of the southern part of the protected area was dismantled, the ski lifts were removed and the old tracks were planted with Scots pine.

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