We all know that Madrid is a fantastic city to visit and, of course, to live in too. Madrid offers us incredible food, outdoor activities in its beautiful gardens and parks, museums and art galleries where we can new things and get to know the city’s history, and a welcoming atmosphere to top it off, perfect for making friends and having a good time.
However, a city so full of life can, at times, be stressful. So, we want to introduce you to 5 sites, inside the Community of Madrid, that will help you relax and interact with nature.
1. BUITRAGO DEL LOZOYA
You can find Buitrago in the Medio Valley of the river Lozoya within the northern highlands, about 47 miles (75 km) from Madrid’s city centre. It’s one of the prettiest municipalities of Madrid, where you will find alluring places such as the Picasso Museum, the Santa María del Castillo Church and the Citadel of Buitrago. What’s more, in the summer you’ll be able to enjoy the Kayaking routes down the river Lozoya and treks to close-by spots like the Riosequillo Reservoir.
How do I get there?
- By public transport: the 191 bus from the Plaza Castillla bus station.
- By car: from Plaza Castilla, take the A1 motorway up until junction 74.
2. ALBERCHE’S GREEN ROUTE
This route, which crosses over the old railway line in the Northwest of Madrid and a mere 40 miles (65 km) from the city, is perfect for getting away from the bustle and spending a day in the mountains. It´s a linear route, about 7.5 miles (12 km) long that starts at the San Juan Reservoir to Picadas Reservoir, following the course of the river Alberche. It´s a route that’s very easy to do with children, walking or cycling. Also, you can enjoy an outdoor picnic along the river bank.
How do I get there?
- By public transport: the 551 bus from the Príncipe Pío bus station.
- By car: from Príncipe Pío, take the M-40 and then the M-501 until the Palayos de la Presa town.
3. SAN LORENZO DEL ESCORIAL
Situated 30 miles (47 km) to the East of Madrid, this historical town offers a perfect experience: visits to the Royal Monastery of Saint Lorenzo de el Escorial, the Blacksmith’s Forest and the House of the Prince; their precious trekking routes like the High Machota or the Pinar de Abantos; and their incredible overlooks like the Chair of Felipe II or the Lookout of the Rubens’ Cross
How do I get there?
- By public transport: the 661 and 664 buses from Moncloa bus station.
- By car: from Moncloa, take the A6 until junction 18 and then take the M-505.
4. RASCAFRÍA Y EL BOSQUE FINLANDÉS
Rascafría is in the northern highlands, 47 miles (75 km) from Madrid. In this municipality, you will find marvellous sites like the natural springs of las Presillas, where only the bravest dare to take a dip since the water is sooooo cold; the Royal Monastery of Santa María del Paular, constructed in 1390; the Pardon Bridge over the river Lozoya; and you can also routes on foot to the so-called Waterfall of Purgatory or the Finnish Forest, a magical place hidden in the mountains of Madrid.
How do I get there?
- By public transport: the 194 bus from the Plaza de Castilla bus station.
- By car: from Plaza de Castilla, take the M-40 until the A1, and then continue to the M-604, which will take you directly to Rascafría.
5. CHINCHÓN Y SU GASTRONOMÍA
Situated only 32 miles (50km) from Madrid, Chinchón is a town with a lot of history, wherein you will find many intriguing monuments: the Plaza Mayor; the Nuestra Señora de la Asunción Church; the Chinchón Castle, a fortress from the Renaissance; or the Posada Museum of Ethnology, a lodge with a courtyard dating back to the 19th Century. But you cannot go to Chinchón without trying their famous food like anise liqueur, shepherd’s crumbs, and sweets like novice’s teats and friar’s balls.
How do I get there?
- By public transport: the 337 bus from the Conde de Casal station.
- By car: from Conde de Casal, take the A3 to the M-832, and then towards the M-311.
We hope that you enjoy your excursions wherever you go!
