Mount Abantos

Mount Abantos is a 1,753 meter (5,751 foot) peak in the Sierra de Guadarrama within Spain's central mountain range. Pine forests cover its slopes, creating a densely wooded landscape up to the summit.

In the 16th century under King Philip II, the peak was called Buen Monte del Oso due to its rich wildlife population. The name referred to the bears and other animals that inhabited the mountains at that time.

The mountain takes its name from the black and griffon vultures that still circle regularly above its peak today. Visitors can watch these birds rising in the thermal currents when conditions are clear.

The peak is easily reached from San Lorenzo de El Escorial, which offers multiple hiking trails to the summit. Early morning visits provide the clearest conditions for the climb and the best views.

A weather station with a yellow electromagnetic reflector panel stands at the summit for meteorological monitoring. This scientific equipment is visible from a distance and reflects the peak's long-standing importance for climate research.