Towns and villages
Berzosa del Lozoya
A mountain balcony overlooking the reservoirs, with stone streets, livestock history and paths through the pastureland.
Automatically translated from Spanish. Leer original en español
Berzosa del Lozoya occupies a hillside in the Sierra Norte of Madrid, offering views of the valley and reservoirs. Around the town center, rockrose thickets, Pyrenean oak groves, pine forests, and pastureland alternate. This elevated position explains why the town is known as a balcony overlooking the mountains.
Its historical trajectory was linked to the Lordship of Buitrago and the agricultural and livestock farming of the territory. The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, originally from the 17th century and rebuilt after the damage of the Civil War, is a visible reminder of that history. The horse-shoeing frame and the fountains also serve as reminders of agricultural work.
The old washhouse, built in the 20th century over the pools where people washed before homes had running water, speaks to another aspect of village life. Today, the streets and paths allow visitors to discover this rural heritage alongside panoramic views of El Villar and El Atazar.
What to see and what to do
In the village square stands the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, originally built in the 17th century and reconstructed after the Civil War. Its stonework, side portico, and bell gable are well worth admiring. Afterward, follow the traces of daily life at the old washhouse, the horse-shoeing frame, and the Hontana fountain.
Campillo Square, with its mulberry tree, is a good starting point for the walk. From the viewpoint reached via Balcón Street, you can admire the mountainous terrain and the reservoirs. The El Villar dam is located within the municipality; any route to it should be planned using the designated paths.
Plan for a day or a weekend
To spend a day out, start in the Plaza del Campillo, visit the old washhouse, and walk through the streets to the church, the horse-shoeing frame, and the Hontana fountain. Then, set aside some time for the Dehesa de Berzosa trail, which offers views of several reservoirs, and return to the town center for lunch.
With a weekend, you can dedicate the second day to one of the Berzosa Fault routes: the circular route through the pastureland or the route that ascends towards Picozo, Peña Portillo, and Albirigaño. Choose the route according to the time available and check its updated information before setting out.
Where to eat
The municipal directory lists Bar Centro, at Calle Real 34; KEA: Raíces y Brasa, at Calle Real 30, with grilled cuisine; and Kiosko de la Cerca, at Camino de Casasola 20. Confirm directly whether they are open and if you can eat there or make a reservation for the day of your visit.
Routes and nature
The Dehesa de Berzosa trail is a 3.3 km route that starts at the Fuente de la Morera fountain in the Plaza del Campillo. It passes by the old washhouse and enters the communal pastureland, where oaks, holm oaks, ash trees, and meadows are interspersed. Its clearings offer views of the surrounding areas of El Villar and El Atazar.
The Town Hall also describes two routes linked to the Berzosa Fault. The circular route through the pastureland is approximately 4 km long and connects a viewpoint, grazing areas, and local heritage sites. The three-peak option, via Picozo, Peña Portillo, and Albirigaño, covers about 7.5 km and gains altitude. Check the route and conditions of your chosen trail before setting out.
How to get there and park
By car from Madrid, take the A-1 to exit 60 and continue on the M-127 towards Berzosa del Lozoya. By bus, you can reach Buitrago del Lozoya on line 191 from Plaza de Castilla and connect there with the 191D, which passes through Berzosa on its way to Robledillo de la Jara. Check connections and return times before setting out.
For parking, follow local signs and restrictions; space availability may change depending on the day and events.
Upcoming parties and plans
The patron saint festivities honor Our Lady of the Assumption and Saint Roch around August 15th and 16th. During Holy Week, one of the local customs is the celebration of Judas on Easter Sunday. These are traditional highlights of the town's calendar; the specific activities, times, and dates for each event depend on the municipal program announced that year.
Where to sleep
Among the accommodations offered by the Town Hall are Nature Rural, El Mirador de los Embalses, Albergue Calumet, and Atempo Alojamientos. There are options for apartments and rural houses in the town center, in addition to the hostel for groups. Check with each establishment for details and availability before booking.
Practical information
The Town Hall is located at Plaza de la Constitución, 1, and can be reached by phone at 91 868 70 31. When planning an excursion, distinguish between walks through the village and routes that venture into the countryside or climb to the peaks. If you rely on public transport, pay particular attention to the connection between lines 191 and 191D for your return journey.
