Linding the provinces of Madrid and Guadalajara, in a part of the Sierra de Ayllón, a landscape is hidden that seems taken from another planet. It is the gullies of the Pontón de la Oliva, a spectacular place with reddish clay formations that resembles, on a smaller scale, to the Grand Canyon of Colorado, in the United States. The erosion of the wind and the water over thousands of years have shaped this stamp, a huge hole with patches of rocks that stand out in a tip. A natural treasure.
In addition, this area contains one of the most incredible hiking routes of the place, with panoramic views that will not go unnoticed. From more complex and extensive to shorter and more simple routes for the whole family. If what you are looking for is a different getaway, full of adventure and nature, the gullies of the pontón de la olive are a destination you must visit.
The Pontón de la Oliva gullies
These rock formations are the result of thousands of years of erosion of wind and water on clay soils, originating a unique landscape where the reddish earth rises in the form of ravines and sharp ridges. The set of sky, earth and vegetation allows to create an impressive contrast of colors that seem taken from a canvas.
The land is one of the great responsible for the creation of this landscape, a set of clays and marls, sedimentary rocks with easy erosion, which have facilitated the creation of different formations over time. These irregularities of the terrain are known as gullies, tracing or regressive erosions. When it rains, the water is dragging again from the ground, accentuating the holes and transforming new furrows that constantly change the appearance of the landscape. It is a repetitive dynamic where the environment offers a different image on each visit.
Although the area may seem desert, it contains a varied flora and adapted to its extreme conditions: esparto, rosemary, lavender and thyme, among others. It also includes a fauna of the place with raptors such as the real eagle, hawks and vultures, and small mammals such as foxes and rabbits.
How to get and when to visit it
The Pontón de la Oliva gullies are in an easily accessible area, only one hour from Madrid, making them a perfect destination for an expedition of one day. To arrive, we must take the M-134 road from Madrid, in the direction of Patones de Arriba, and then follow the instructions towards the Pontón de la Oliva reservoir. The road is well marked and can be easily arrived.
Although access to the area is free, it is best to leave the car in the enabled parking lots that are close to the reservoir or in the immediate vicinity of the route. For those who prefer to arrive in public transport, there is a bus from Madrid to Patones and can walk to the starting point of the itinerary.
During spring and autumn stations the weather is more pleasant, avoiding extreme temperatures of both cold and heat, being the best time to visit. The landscape also acquires vibrant tones during those months.
Tour and key points
The hiking route through this place is ideal for nature lovers who wish to explore new places. It is a somewhat complex itinerary due to its stony and slippery terrain. It lasts approximately three hours, depending on the rhythm and duration of the stops. It is a circular route of just over twelve kilometers in length and begins in the area of the Pontón de la Oliva reservoir. If what you are looking for is a shorter walk, there is an alternative route of about five kilometers although with more pending.
Along the way we will find various key points where we can enjoy the landscape of the area:
- Pontón de la Oliva reservoir: This is the starting point of the route. It is an old 19th -century reservoir that has been able to enjoy the views of the Sierra that surrounds the place for a long time. It is the exact point that Madrid and Guadalajara separate.
- Viewpoint of the gullies: once we walk the first section, we arrive at a natural viewpoint where we have the best views to appreciate the gullies.
- The gullies: As we continue advancing, we enter the heart of the gullies. It is the most spectacular area of the entire route, being the best time to take photographs merged with the landscape. At this point the road becomes more complex due to slopes and irregular terrain.
- Patones above: At the end of the route the road connects with patones above. A town in the north of the Sierra de Madrid ideal to rest and enjoy its cobbled streets full of charm.
History and curiosities
The Pontón gullies are found in a natural enclave loaded with history and popular legends.
The Pontón reservoir dates from the nineteenth century and was vital to supply the city of Madrid with water. It is an old dam that after three years of its construction had to close due to the slope of the land, allowing the flow of the Lozoya River to filter inside.
In addition to its impressive geological formations, this area is surrounded by local myths and legends. One of the most popular among the inhabitants of the area, is that of the Hermit monks who formerly inhabited the place, taking refuge in the clay formations. The legend also circulated where it was believed that the water of the reservoir had healing properties due to the purity of its origin.
Tips and recommendations
We must take into account the recommendations of the place when making any itinerary. We should not visit the place if it has rained or rains recently, the terrain is clay and becomes much more slippery and dangerous. From a proper footwear to the type of terrain, through good hydration and sun protection, until you wear comfortable clothes to have a better experience.
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