Driving the M-130 to Puerto de la Puebla: The wildest pass in Madrid
Located in the northern reaches of the Community of Madrid, the Puerto de la Puebla is a high mountain pass that stands at an elevation of 1,636m (5,367ft) above sea level. Situated within the Sierra del Lobosillo mountain range, this pass is one of the most secluded and authentic driving experiences in Central Spain, far from the crowded routes of the Sierra de Guadarrama.
The road to the summit is the M-130, a narrow ribbon of asphalt that winds through a landscape of slate mountains and pine forests. This area is often referred to as part of the "Sierra Pobre" due to its historical isolation, which has preserved a rugged and untouched atmosphere. The drive is highly scenic, offering panoramic views of the Lozoya Valley and the surrounding peaks of the Sierra de Ayllón.
| Road facts: Puerto de la Puebla | |
|---|---|
| Location | Sierra Norte, Madrid (Spain) |
| Elevation | 1,636 m (5,367 ft) |
| Length | 18.2 km (11.3 miles) |
| Max Gradient | 12% |
| Hairpin Turns | 12 |
How challenging is the M-130 road?
The road is 18.2 km (11.3 miles) long, running west to east from the village of Prádena del Rincón to the isolated town of Puebla de la Sierra. While the asphalt is in acceptable condition, the M-130 is notoriously narrow, with many sections lacking a central line. Drivers must be prepared to yield or slow down significantly when encountering oncoming traffic.
The ascent is technically demanding, featuring 12 sharp hairpin turns that require precise steering. The gradients are inconsistent but include several steep ramps hitting 11% and 12%. The lack of heavy traffic makes it a favorite for local cyclists and motorcyclists, so extreme caution is advised on blind corners where you might find riders in the middle of the lane.
Weather and Safety: Winter at the Pass
Due to its altitude and northern orientation, the Puerto de la Puebla is one of the first roads in the Madrid region to be closed due to snowfall. During the winter months, black ice is a common hazard in the shaded forest sections, even if the sun is out. There are virtually no services along the 18 km stretch, so ensuring your vehicle has enough fuel and carrying warm clothing is essential before leaving Prádena.
The descent towards Puebla de la Sierra is particularly spectacular, with the road clinging to the mountainside as it drops into the valley. If you are looking for a drive that combines technical difficulty with the silence of the high mountains, the Puerto de la Puebla is the ultimate "hidden" pass of the Madrid sierra. It is a route that rewards a slow pace, allowing you to appreciate one of the most biodiverse and least populated corners of Central Spain.