In Ávila, the Crests Are Scaled

In the heart of the Circo de Gredos, where ridges scar the granite and the horizon is cut by sharp edges, lies one of the most complete routes for those seeking a blend of climbing, ridgewalking, and adventure: the Cerro de los Huertos ridge with the final ascent to Punta Esperanza. This route, while not the most difficult in the massif, embodies the essence of the "art" of ridgewalking, that transition between climbing and alpinism that transforms each step into a dialogue with the mountain.

Access is direct from the Refugio de la Laguna Grande de Gredos. Heading west, one advances towards the mass of Cerro de los Huertos and Risco Moreno, progressively veering north to avoid the cerro's shoulder. The ascent is somewhat challenging but leads to the base of the wall, where ropes are set for the initial pitches. Once overcome, the ridge is quickly reached, and with it, the main summit, at 2,460 meters.

From that point, the arête extends southwest in a sequence of scrambles, short descents, and exposed traverses that alternate effort and contemplation. The collado and canal de los Reyes Magos mark a change of pace before traversing the long arête that abruptly ends above the collado del Risco Moreno. There, two rappels, one very vertical with a slightly overhanging section, lead to the end of the ridgewalk.

The highlight of the day is Punta Esperanza, a cucumber-shaped spire separated from the southwest slope of Cerro de los Huertos. Its ascent requires a couple of pitches, and the descent, another rappel of about 20 meters. From its summit, the views reward the effort; to the south, the gaze reaches even the Montes de Toledo; to the north, the abrupt profile of the Circo reminds one that the return still awaits. The return to the refuge involves about an hour across challenging terrain.

In total, the activity requires between six and seven hours, always in a spectacular setting. In summer, it is feasible for mountaineers with some climbing experience, especially when accompanied by a guide. In winter, snow and ice transform the route into a mixed itinerary of greater technical commitment. In any season, the reward is spectacular.