Attractions and Places To See around Pelayos De La Presa - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Pelayos De La Presa include a blend of historical landmarks, significant natural features, and cultural sites located in the Sierra Oeste of Madrid. The region is characterized by its reservoirs, rivers, and remnants of historical infrastructure, offering diverse points of interest. Visitors can explore ancient monasteries, unique scientific facilities, and extensive greenways. This area provides opportunities for outdoor activities and historical exploration within a natural landscape.
Best attractions and places to see around Pelayos De La Presa
- The most popular attractions is Madrid Deep Space Communications Complex, a man_made_monument that features large antennas and radio telescopes used for tracking space vehicles and probes. Built in 1964, this NASA-owned center is one of only three such facilities worldwide.
- Another must-see spot is Alberche Greenway, a cycle_way built on the route of an old railway line that was never completed. This path offers cycling through a canyon where the Alberche River is dammed by the Picadas dam, providing a route through pine forests.
- Visitors also love Picadas Reservoir, a lake that is ideal for cycling along its shores. The route between San Martín de Valdeiglesias and Aldea del Fresno offers a pleasant ride through pine forests to the dam wall.
- Pelayos De La Presa is known for its historical sites, natural features, and recreational areas. These include ancient ruins, modern scientific facilities, and extensive greenways for cycling and walking.
- The attractions around Pelayos De La Presa are appreciated by the komoot community. With more than 16 upvotes and 5 photos, these spots offer diverse experiences for visitors.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Picadas Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
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Alberche Greenway
Highlight • Cycleway
The railway was planned in 1930 as a secondary branch of the main Madrid-Almorox line. The plan was to create a railway communication route between Aldea del Fresno and Arenas de San Pedro, passing through Pelayos de la Presa, San Martín de Valdeiglesias and the Tiétar valley. The works began very lively, bridges were built and remains of the track bed remain in several sections, but the arrival of the Civil War cut off the works and they were never resumed. Now, the sections built almost a century ago are a wonderful greenway in the Sierra Oeste.
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Picadas Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
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Madrid Deep Space Communications Complex
Highlight • Monument
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San Juan Reservoir Marina
Highlight • Lake
It collects the waters of the Alberche and Cofio rivers.
It is accessed through the M-501, the "road of the marshes".
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Beautiful and easy path along the Alberche river.
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La Presa de Picadas is a hydraulic infrastructure located on the Alberche River, which gives rise to the reservoir of the same name. Surrounded by a natural environment of great beauty, it stands out for its rugged landscapes, pine forests, and calm waters, making it an ideal point of interest to enjoy nature in the Sierra Oeste of Madrid.
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The Embalse de Picadas is a natural enclave located on the course of the Alberche river, surrounded by pine forests and steep slopes that create a landscape of great beauty. Its calm waters and uncrowded environment make it an ideal place to enjoy nature in the Sierra Oeste of Madrid.
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Impressive antenna installation. Beautiful road with little traffic.
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The section between San Martín de Valdeiglesias and Aldea del Fresno is very comforting due to the route of the old Alberche train. The path is favorable and you simply have to maintain your inertia through the pine forests of Pelayos de la Presa and the shore of the Picadas reservoir to the dam wall, a delightful cycling ride. At the dam you have to cross a small slope and go down to the Alberche River bridge in Aldea del Fresno, which due to recent floods was under repair the day we passed. The route continues along the entertaining and sandy Camino de Navayuncosa, passing by the Palace of the Count of Caralt and following a section of the old railway to Villamanta, where we once again find damage to the road due to flooding. In the municipality of Navalcarnero we follow the milestones of CiclaMadrid along the rural roads marked with carved and sculpted granite posts with the names of the paths and roads of the municipality, on the map it says Camino de Madrid and on the stone post Camino from Valdeyeso. Navalcarnero has a stop in the square, it is monumental and a good place to have the last snack before the final push. In the Dehesa de Marimartín we reconnect with the route of the old Alberche railway, we pass over the iron bridge of the Guadarrama River and along the greenway we immediately arrive at the lonely streets of Mostoles Tecnológico. In this section, the CiclaMadrid milestones follow a rather uncomfortable livestock route through industrial estates and urban areas, until they cross the peripheral urbanizations of Villaviciosa de Odón and through the old military camps of Venta de la Rubia and the Meaques stream, they enter the Cottage.
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The Picadas reservoir is located between the municipalities of Pelayos de la Presa and Aldea del Fresno, about 60 km from Madrid, in the Sierra de Gredos. This reservoir collects the waters of the Alberche River and has a recreational area that the whole family will enjoy.
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Nice place I made the route from Toledo to the San Juan reservoir
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Pelayos De La Presa?
Pelayos De La Presa offers a rich history. You can visit the significant ruins of the 12th-century Cistercian Monasterio de Santa María La Real de Valdeiglesias, which showcases Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque elements. The Madrid Deep Space Communications Complex, built in 1964, is also a unique historical and scientific landmark. Additionally, remnants of the Spanish Civil War fortifications, such as machine gun nests and bunkers, are scattered around the municipal area.
Where can I enjoy nature and scenic views in the area?
The region is rich in natural beauty. The Picadas Reservoir offers pleasant views, especially when cycling along its shores through pine forests. The San Juan Reservoir Marina is another popular spot with expansive water views. For panoramic vistas, consider visiting the Mirador de Casa Quemada, which provides spectacular views of the reservoir and its surroundings.
Are there opportunities for water sports or swimming in Pelayos De La Presa?
Yes, the Embalse de San Juan (San Juan Reservoir) is a major draw, being the only reservoir in the Community of Madrid where swimming is permitted. It's very popular for water sports and outdoor activities, especially during warmer months. You can also find the San Juan Reservoir Marina there.
What cycling routes are available near Pelayos De La Presa?
The area is excellent for cycling. The Alberche Greenway, built on an old railway line, offers a delightful path through a canyon where the Alberche River is dammed. You can also cycle along the shores of the Picadas Reservoir. For more options, explore the various routes in the Cycling around Pelayos De La Presa guide, which includes routes like the 'Alberche Greenway – Picadas Reservoir loop'.
Are there hiking trails suitable for different skill levels?
While the area is particularly known for cycling, you can find paths and trails for walking. The Alberche Greenway is suitable for easy walks. For more challenging options, consider the routes listed in the MTB Trails around Pelayos De La Presa guide, which can often be adapted for hiking, such as the 'San Martín de Valdeiglesias – Labores Stream Pool loop'.
What activities are suitable for families with children?
Families can enjoy several attractions. The San Juan Reservoir Marina is great for water activities and relaxing by the lake. The Madrid Deep Space Communications Complex offers an educational experience with its impressive antennas. The Alberche Greenway provides an easy and scenic path for family bike rides or walks.
What is the best time of year to visit Pelayos De La Presa?
The warmer months are particularly popular, especially for activities around the Embalse de San Juan where swimming is permitted. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for cycling and exploring historical sites without the intense summer heat, making them ideal for outdoor activities like those along the Alberche Greenway.
Can I go birdwatching in the area?
Yes, the Mirador de Casa Quemada is an excellent spot for birdwatching. From this viewpoint, you have opportunities to see various species, including griffon vultures and imperial eagles, soaring over the reservoir and its surroundings.
Are there any greenways or easy paths for walking or cycling?
Absolutely. The Alberche Greenway is a prime example, built on an old railway line, offering a delightful and relatively flat path for both cycling and walking through pine forests and along the river. The Embalse de Picadas Recreational Area also provides ideal conditions for cycling along the reservoir's shore.
Are there any hidden gems or less-known spots worth visiting?
Beyond the main attractions, consider visiting the Labores Stream Pool, a beautiful place ideal for a break and enjoying the wonderful landscape in the heart of the Alberche oak forest. It's a tranquil spot perfect for connecting with nature.
What are the main natural features of the Pelayos De La Presa area?
The area is defined by its water bodies and forests. Key natural features include the Embalse de San Juan and Picadas Reservoir, which are fed by the Alberche and Cofio rivers. The region also features extensive pine forests, particularly along the greenways and reservoir shores, and the scenic canyon formed by the Alberche River.
What kind of wildlife can I spot in Pelayos De La Presa?
The natural areas around Pelayos De La Presa, especially viewpoints like Mirador de Casa Quemada, are known for birdwatching. You might spot impressive raptors such as griffon vultures and imperial eagles. The forested areas and riverbanks also support various smaller birds and mammals typical of the Sierra Oeste region.
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