Towns and villages
Colmenarejo: livestock trails, heritage and landscape of Valmayor
A stroll through the town center, a trip along the Aulencia paths and the views of Valmayor allow you to discover the rural history of this municipality in northwest Madrid.
Automatically translated from Spanish. Leer original en español
Colmenarejo occupies a hilly area in the northwest of the Community of Madrid, between the Valmayor area and the land through which the Aulencia River flows. The landscape changes from the mountain slopes to lower elevations, with streams and paths that lead visitors to a territory marked by water and rural life. Part of the municipality belongs to the Guadarrama River Middle Course Regional Park and its surrounding area.
Documentation places Colmenarejo within the history of the Manzanares territory as early as the 13th century. Livestock migrations help to understand the importance of its drove roads, although accounts of the exact founding date differ. In 1630, it was granted town status and became independent from Galapagar. Agriculture, livestock farming, charcoal production, and granite quarrying sustained the local economy for centuries.
The Church of St. James the Apostle, dating back to the 16th century, is one of the vestiges of that past. The establishment of the Santiago colony in 1929 ushered in an era of second homes that transformed the town. Today, exploring the town center and continuing along the surrounding paths allows you to discover this coexistence of rural history and residential life.
What to see and what to do
Start in Plaza de la Constitución and head towards the Church of Santiago Apóstol. Its altarpiece dates from 1612; to see the interior, please confirm the church's opening hours beforehand. The walk can continue along Calle Madrid and Calle Constitución, where examples of traditional architecture remain.
The chapel of Our Lady of Solitude, built in 1999, is located on the road to Valmayor and features a viewpoint. The Pozuelo fountain, on the street of the same name, offers another opportunity to learn about the village's old water supply.
The old Pilar mine is a reminder of copper extraction. The winch building, which housed the machinery used to move loads in the shaft, is still standing. Check with the municipal tourist information office to see if there are any organized tours to explore this heritage site and what the access requirements are.
Plan for a day or a weekend
For a day trip, dedicate the morning to the plaza and the exterior of Santiago Apóstol. You can add a visit inside if you've confirmed it's open. After lunch, choose a walk from the municipal map towards Valmayor and Peñarrubia, adjusting the route to your time and fitness level.
On a weekend, set aside another day for a nature hike. The R14 trail to Valdemorillo requires a specific outing: it's a 16.2-kilometer linear route and ends in another town. If you hike the entire trail, plan your return trip beforehand. Alternatively, you can choose an out-and-back section and calculate the total distance before setting out.
Where to eat
Yusta, located at 12 Pablo Iglesias Avenue since 1972, offers a menu featuring rice dishes and traditional cuisine, including meats and stews. It's a great option for a lunch break while visiting the town.
To view the current menu and make a reservation, the establishment provides the phone numbers 91 858 91 30 and 609 86 96 85. Please confirm opening days and any dietary requirements directly before visiting.
Routes and nature
The R14 trail connects the Church of Santiago Apóstol in Colmenarejo with the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción in Valdemorillo. The regional information indicates a distance of 16.2 kilometers and approximately five hours on foot. It follows livestock trails and historic paths, and crosses the Aulencia River near the remains of a flour mill.
Although the published difficulty is low, the route includes road crossings and a section along a road. Keep these points in mind when deciding who to walk with and how to organize the hike. As it is a linear route, a planned return is necessary; the estimated time does not include a return walk to the starting point.
The municipal map also offers routes to Valmayor and Peñarrubia, Cabeza Aguda, Cerro del Burro and the mines, and the Milanillo cattle track. Before choosing, check the route and current conditions. The Cañada Real de Merinas and the Cordel de la Espernada are part of the livestock network that shapes this landscape.
How to get there and park
The intercity bus line 631 connects Madrid, from Moncloa, with Colmenarejo via Torrelodones and Galapagar. Line 633 connects the town with the Majadahonda Hospital, also passing through Galapagar and Torrelodones.
Check the schedules for your travel day and the stop that corresponds to your destination. The operator publishes notices about changes in location and route alterations; it's advisable to check them before leaving and before starting your return trip.
If you arrive by car, use only designated parking areas and respect local signage. For a hike in the countryside, check the starting point and where you can park your vehicle without blocking paths or access roads.
Upcoming parties and plans
The patron saint festivities of Saint James the Apostle are traditionally celebrated around July 25th. The participation of local clubs and associations is an integral part of the town's festive life.
The pilgrimage to the Virgin of Solitude is traditionally held on the first Sunday of September, with a procession from the church to the hermitage. Saint Isidore's Day, on May 15th, and Carnival are other important local traditions.
These references describe regular celebrations. Specific dates, activities, and participation requirements should be checked in the program for each edition and the current cultural calendar.
Where to sleep
Hostal Yusta, associated with the restaurant Desde 1972, offers accommodation at Avenida de Pablo Iglesias, 12, in Colmenarejo. To inquire about your stay, you can contact them at 91 858 91 30 or 609 86 96 85.
Before booking, please confirm availability for your dates, the total price, and cancellation policy. Also, inquire about any services you require and room access if you have mobility needs.
Practical information
The Town Hall is located at Plaza de la Constitución, 1. Its telephone number is 91 858 90 72. Municipal information places the tourist office in the Cultural Center, at Calle Inmaculada, 2; please confirm their hours before traveling there.
To prepare for your hike, request a map of the route and check the AEMET weather forecast for Colmenarejo. Pay particular attention to road crossings on the R14 and how to plan your return if you finish in Valdemorillo.
To visit the interior of the church or learn about the mining heritage, please inquire about current access conditions. If you require accessibility information, please consult each site and itinerary separately.