Towns and villages
Alameda del Valle: rural life and paths along the Lozoya River
Between the Carpetanos Mountains and the Cuerda Larga mountain range, discover a village of meadows, mountain architecture and walks towards the Santa Ana hermitage.
Automatically translated from Spanish. Leer original en español
Alameda del Valle occupies a corner of the Upper Lozoya Valley where houses and old barns coexist with meadows, orchards, and livestock trails. The Lozoya River and the Saúca stream accompany a landscape framed by the Carpetanos Mountains and the Cuerda Larga mountain range, with the Peñalara massif as a landmark for views of the valley.
Its documented history is linked to the organization of the Valdelozoya estates at the beginning of the 14th century, within the Sexmo of Lozoya and the Community of City and Land of Segovia. In the 19th century, it became part of the province of Madrid. Agriculture and livestock farming left a visible mark on the stone buildings, storage areas, and old irrigation systems.
The Church of Santa Marina, Virgin and Martyr, began construction in the 16th century and was expanded in the 18th. Alongside it, the Hermitage of Santa Ana and the Town Hall building offer glimpses into other stages of local history. Today, a stroll through its streets can be complemented by exploring the valley paths and participating in cultural activities that introduce visitors to the village's traditional trades and natural environment.
What to see and what to do
Start at Santa Marina Square and the Town Hall, built between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Its facade with portico, balcony and clock presides over a space from which to explore Grande, Romero, del Río and Iglesia streets, looking for houses and barns of traditional mountain architecture.
On the southwestern edge of the old town stands the Church of Santa Marina, Virgin and Martyr. Its construction began in the 16th century under the direction of Juan de la Piedra, and it was expanded in the 18th century. Admire the stone entrances, the wooden portico, and the enclosure surrounding the church; to visit the interior, please confirm its opening hours beforehand.
The Old Schools house an exhibition hall with a permanent collection, live birdwatching cameras, and a scale model of the town. It's a great place to connect your walk with the life and landscape of Alameda, subject to the center's opening hours.
The mural "Sowing Together," by the Alegría del Prado collective, is located at Calle de la Fragua, 41. A stork and a child share the action of planting a seed: an urban art proposal that invites reflection on caring for nature.
Outside the town center, the hermitage of Santa Ana is located about 3 km south, next to the stream of the same name. The current building dates from the 18th century, and its surroundings are a popular walking destination in the municipality. The distance indicated is its approximate location from the town and not a complete circuit.
Plan for a day or a weekend
For a day trip, dedicate the morning to the old town: Plaza de Santa Marina, the Town Hall, the church, and the streets with their rural architecture. Add the mural "Sowing Together" and, if you've confirmed it's open, the exhibition at the Old Schools. After lunch, choose a section of the Lozoya Valley Nature Trail and return with enough time to enjoy the town.
If you have a weekend, set aside another day for the Santa Ana hermitage. You can plan the direct route from Alameda or explore the alternative that passes through Oteruelo del Valle. Before deciding, check the map, the total distance, and the elevation gain of your chosen route.
If you extend your trip to include El Paular and the Puente del Perdón (Bridge of Forgiveness), remember that both are located in the municipality of Rascafría. Plan your visits and return separately, especially if you're relying on the bus.
Where to eat
El Colorao, located at Calle Grande, 29, is a traditional restaurant in the heart of Alameda. The establishment has a family history dating back to a tavern opened in 1939 and was taken over by the family after renovations in 2024.
The Posada de Alameda, located at Calle Grande, 34, combines lodging and a restaurant. Both options allow you to incorporate a meal into a day of exploring the village. Please confirm opening hours, kitchen service, and reservation availability for your dates directly; menus and prices may vary.
Routes and nature
The Lozoya Valley Nature Trail passes through the area around Alameda and offers routes towards Pinilla del Valle or towards Oteruelo and Rascafría. Between villages, it alternates between pastureland, paths, and ash groves. Select a specific section to calculate the outward and return distance, instead of using the entire trail as your guide for your walk.
One of its branches leads to the Santa Ana hermitage from Oteruelo, crosses the Lozoya River, and passes through an oak grove before reaching the hermitage. It then connects with Alameda and the main route. This is an alternative route that combines scenery and heritage; its total distance should be checked on the official map.
The Town Hall also suggests routes along the Saúca stream and towards the Majada del Cojo mountain pasture. The route to the pasture ascends into the mountainous terrain: check the elevation gain and weather conditions before choosing this option. In all cases, bring water, stay on designated paths, and respect properties and livestock.
How to get there and park
From Madrid, one option is to take the A-1 to exit 69 and continue on the M-604 towards Lozoya and Rascafría, taking the turnoff to Alameda del Valle. It can also be accessed from Rascafría via the same road. Alternative routes through the Cotos or Morcuera mountain passes require checking road conditions before traveling.
Line 194 connects Madrid, Plaza de Castilla, with Rascafría and stops in Alameda del Valle, on Calle Grande, and next to the Town Hall. Line 194A connects the Buitrago del Lozoya and Lozoyuela corridor with Rascafría, passing through Alameda. Check which route is scheduled for your day and plan your return before starting your trip.
In the town center, use designated parking areas as indicated by signage. Keep access roads to homes, livestock crossings, and entrances to paths clear.
Upcoming parties and plans
Saint Marina, Virgin and Martyr, is the patron saint of Alameda del Valle, and her feast day is July 18th. Saint Anne, on July 26th, has special local roots: the tradition includes the procession carrying her image from the church to the hermitage.
These dates are based on the traditional calendar. Festivals, activities, communal meals, and open-air dances vary depending on the program for each event and should be checked before traveling. For other cultural offerings, consult the municipal calendar and the program at the Old Schools.
Where to sleep
The Posada de Alameda, located at Calle Grande, 34, offers hotel accommodation within the village and features a restaurant. Its project is linked to Diaconía España.
The rural accommodations El Bosque are located at Calle Grande, 3, and are distributed as apartments. This is another option for organizing a stay in the town center and from there exploring the valley trails. Check with each establishment for availability, the capacity of the accommodation you are booking, and the reservation conditions; do not assume services or accommodations without confirming them.
Practical information
The telephone number for the Alameda del Valle Town Hall is 91 869 14 79. For tourist and cultural information at the Old Schools, the municipal contact number is 91 869 11 39 and the email address is [email address missing][email protected].
The exhibition hall is open, and access to the interior of the church and chapel is available. The municipal routes and the Natural Trail map help you plan your outings based on the distance and elevation gain you're willing to undertake.
The landscape still reflects livestock farming and agriculture. Close any gates that need to be closed, keep dogs under control, and avoid entering private properties. Check weather forecasts before venturing into mountainous areas.