Towns and villages
La Cabrera: granite, paths and history at the foot of the mountains
A getaway between the Church of the Immaculate Conception, the Convent of San Antonio, ancient archaeological remains and pastures of holm oaks and ash trees.
Automatically translated from Spanish. Leer original en español
La Cabrera stretches out at the foot of a mountain range with ridges and large granite boulders. Very close to the village center, the meadows of holm oaks, oaks, and ash trees soften the landscape and open paths from which the unique shape of its crags can be seen. The contrast between the inhabited plain and the mountains is an essential part of its character.
The territory preserves vestiges of ancient occupation at Cerro de la Cabeza and in a nearby necropolis, studied through archaeological excavations. Later, the former monastery of San Antonio and San Julián became a religious landmark of the region: its medieval origins are linked to the Benedictine community and, from the beginning of the 15th century, to the Franciscans. La Cabrera was part of the Lordship of Buitrago before being incorporated into the province of Madrid in 1833.
In the village, the Church of the Immaculate Conception and the horse-shoeing frame are reminders of other stages in local life. Between the heritage sites, the cattle trails, and the routes that climb towards the granite outcrops, La Cabrera offers a visit where history and landscape intertwine.
What to see and what to do
The route begins in Plaza de la Concordia, where the Church of the Immaculate Conception stands, built of granite and enlarged at different times. On Calle Carlos Jiménez Díaz, a horse-shoeing frame, a relic of the area's former livestock farming, is preserved. The complex of San Antonio and San Julián, located on the slopes of Cancho Gordo, combines medieval architecture and terraced gardens; please check the conditions for guided tours beforehand. The historical route also allows visitors to explore, within their natural surroundings, the necropolis known as Tumba del Moro (Moor's Tomb) and Cerro de la Cabeza (Head Hill). These are archaeological sites that must be visited without disturbing the remains.
Plan for a day or a weekend
Dedicate the first part of the day to the town center, the church, and the horse-shoeing frame. Afterward, choose a walk through the Roblellano pastureland or follow the historical route, which connects the Moor's Tomb, the Cerro de la Cabeza hill, and the San Antonio convent. Complete the day with lunch in the village. If you have a second day, you can explore the Roblehorno pastureland along the traditional uses trail or dedicate it to the granite mountain range using the municipal description of your chosen route. The cultural program at the Regional Humanities Center may offer another option to round out your stay.
Where to eat
The municipal list of establishments includes Cachivache, El Asador de Teodomiro, Machaco, and the Mavi Hotel restaurant. Also listed are the CCH Bailandera café-restaurant, El Cancho del Águila, and takeaway options. The selection is varied, but service may differ from place to place; check directly with the establishment before visiting or making a reservation.
Routes and nature
The Town Hall offers itineraries with different focuses. Living Ecosystems explores the Roblellano pastureland; Traditional Uses delves into the Roblehorno pastureland; and A Walk Through History links landscapes with archaeological remains and the convent. There are also routes through the Sierra de La Cabrera mountain range itself and a walking path to Valdemanco. The mountain routes involve ascents and rocky terrain: consult the official route, the weather forecast, and current conditions before choosing. For a more leisurely stroll, the pasturelands allow you to observe how the vegetation and granite formations change as you move away from the town center.
How to get there and park
La Cabrera is accessible from Madrid via the A-1 motorway, following the signposted access roads to the town. The intercity bus line 191 connects Plaza de Castilla with La Cabrera on its route to Buitrago. The Regional Transport Consortium also operates other lines that pass through the municipality, including 194, 195, 196, and 197B. Check the Consortium's timetable to find the most convenient stop and route. For parking, follow the signs and avoid blocking driveways, paths, or narrow streets; parking spaces are not guaranteed at the start of each route.
Upcoming parties and plans
La Cabrera traditionally celebrates Saint Anthony of Padua in June and Saint Luke, the town's patron saint, in October. The bonfire and community gathering are part of the Saint Luke tradition. Specific dates for activities, routes, and events for each celebration depend on the published municipal programs; please consult the schedule before planning your trip around the festivities.
Where to sleep
The municipal guide lists various types of accommodation in La Cabrera: the Botica Rural and La Buena Mañana apartments, the El Bulín rural house, the El Cancho del Águila and La Posada de Mari hostels, the Mavi and Sara de Ur hotels, and the Pico de la Miel campsite. Check the features, conditions, and availability directly with your chosen accommodation.
Practical information
The Town Hall is located at Plaza de la Concepción 1, 28751 La Cabrera, and its general telephone number is 91 868 80 57. The Villa San Roque Tourist Innovation Center, on Avenida de La Cabrera, offers information for planning a visit to the Sierra Norte region. Check there or with the staff at each site for current conditions regarding cultural visits. For hiking, use the municipal route maps and distinguish between walks through the meadows and routes that venture into the granite mountain range.