Towns and villages
Lozoya: mountain heritage on the shores of the Pinilla reservoir
A town center with medieval history, walks along the water and paths that climb towards the pine forests of Navafría and the peaks of the Carpetanos Mountains.
Automatically translated from Spanish. Leer original en español
Lozoya lies at the foot of the Carpetanos Mountains, next to the Pinilla Reservoir. From the village, the view shifts from the water and meadows to the oak and pine forests on the slopes. Its location in the Upper Lozoya Valley allows visitors to alternate between strolling through the village center and exploring the riverbanks or venturing towards the Navafría mountain pass.
Its past is linked to the medieval organization of the land in Segovia and the use of pastures, livestock, and crops. In the 14th century, the Book of Hunting of Alfonso XI already mentioned the Congosto bridge. The purchase of the estate by Sebastián Suárez de la Concha in 1629 opened a new chapter, followed by that of the Marquises of Lozoya; the municipality was incorporated into the province of Madrid in 1833.
The 16th-century Church of El Salvador and the Town Hall, dating from 1698, add historical depth to the visit. The 20th century brought another decisive change: the Pinilla Reservoir, in operation since 1967, incorporated this part of the valley into Madrid's water supply system and shaped the landscape that surrounds the town today.
What to see and what to do
Lozoya's helmet
The tour begins in the Plaza Mayor, dominated by the Town Hall. Nearby is the Church of El Salvador, originally built in the 16th century with later renovations: its tower and Plateresque façade are two highlights of the visit. The ribbed vault is located inside, and it's best to confirm whether it's open.
The former convent originated as a building belonging to the Suárez de la Concha family and was later taken over by the Franciscan Conceptionist nuns at the end of the 18th century. The walk can continue along Juan Martín Street to see the pillory and approach the horse-shoeing frame next to the M-604 highway, a testament to the use of animals in the past. These sites can be admired during the walk from the outside, even without entering the buildings.
Water and bridges
The area around the Pinilla reservoir offers views of the town with the mountains in the background. Downstream from the dam, the Congosto Bridge, also called the Canto Bridge, crosses a narrow gorge of the Lozoya River. The appeal of this stop lies in its combination of historical architecture and riverside scenery.
Plan for a day or a weekend
For a day trip, dedicate the morning to the old town: Plaza Mayor, the Church of El Salvador, the pillory, and the horse-shoeing frame. Afterward, head to the reservoir to walk along a section of the Lozoya Valley Nature Trail. Choose your return point based on the time available and head back to town for lunch (reservations required).
If the route is the focus of your getaway, replace the short walk with the itinerary to the Congosto Bridge. The municipal route adds up to 10 kilometers round trip, so it's best to dedicate a significant portion of your day to it and leave the town center for later.
On a weekend, combine that first day with the pine forests on the ascent to Navafría or with another section of the Natural Trail towards Pinilla del Valle. The climb to Nevero requires its own planning due to its length and elevation gain; don't just add it as a simple stroll at the end of the day.
Where to eat
At number 13 on Lozoya Avenue, Mesón El Valle de Lozoya is among the options for home-style cooking, including traditional white beans and roasts available by order. El Pajar de Fuente Hernando, located at number 27 on Eras Chicas Street, offers wood-fired oven dishes and seasonal cuisine.
Casa Varillas, at Avenida de Lozoya, 27, offers a restaurant and tapas bar with a menu focused on meat from its own livestock. For a break in the city center, the municipal directory includes Taberna Barra Brava, at Plaza de Antonio Blanco, 3, and Bar Restaurante Serna, at number 10 on that same plaza.
Check the menu, opening hours, and reservation information for the day of your visit. If you're looking for a roast or a dish prepared to order, please confirm its availability with the restaurant beforehand.
Routes and nature
Lozoya Valley Nature Trail
Its main route connects the area around El Paular with El Cuadrón and passes through Lozoya by the reservoir. You can choose a section towards Pinilla del Valle or continue towards the Congosto bridge. The branch to the Fuensanta hermitage leaves the town center and climbs the hillside: it's not a completely flat walk. Plan your return from any of the linear sections.
Congosto Bridge
The municipal route description suggests a 10-kilometer round trip with a 160-meter elevation gain. The destination is the gorge located downstream from the reservoir. Follow the route and observe the riverbed from the path and the bridge.
The Nevero and the pine forests of Navafría
The complete ascent from Lozoya is 16 kilometers long with 1,109 meters of elevation gain, classified by the City Council as difficult. Check the specific route and mountain conditions before setting out. For a shorter alternative, the areas of Peña Alta, El Mirador, and Las Lagunillas allow for walks through the pine forest; however, access and restrictions should be checked beforehand.
The juniper forest adds another facet to the local landscape, different from the oak and pine forests that dominate much of the area.
How to get there and park
From Madrid, the usual route follows the A-1 to exit 69, near Lozoyuela, and continues on the M-604 towards Lozoya and Rascafría. From Segovia, you can reach it via the Navafría mountain pass; the M-637 descends to Lozoya. Check the condition of the mountain road when there is snow or adverse weather.
Line 194 connects Plaza de Castilla with Rascafría and passes through Lozoya. Line 194A connects the valley with Lozoyuela and Buitrago del Lozoya, depending on the route. Before traveling, check the timetable for your chosen date, the stop, and the return service; not all routes have the same conditions.
The City Council operates regulated municipal parking areas and publishes ordinances regarding their use and public prices. Check the signage and current conditions before parking. If you are traveling in a caravan, motorhome, or campervan, consult the specific regulations for those vehicles.
Upcoming parties and plans
San Sebastián, on January 20, preserves the tradition of the "vaquilla": an adorned frame travels through the town to ask for contributions and participate in the neighborhood celebration.
The pilgrimage to the Virgin of Fuensanta is traditionally linked to the last Sunday of May, with the procession of the image up to the hermitage. The feast of El Salvador, the town's patron saint, is celebrated on August 6th. The main festivities in honor of the Virgin of Fuensanta take place around the first weekend of October, with religious celebrations and popular activities.
These references are based on local traditions. For visits coinciding with the festivities, please confirm the annual program and any possible changes with the Town Hall; these do not constitute guaranteed dates or future activities.
Where to sleep
The municipal directory lists CicloLodge, located at Cuatro Calles, 4, as a hotel. Their information and reservation numbers are 91 856 36 74 and 690 882 179. Please contact the establishment to inquire about the services included in your chosen stay.
NaturaExplora Sierra de Madrid offers accommodation in Lozoya, at Travesía San Vicente, 8. The telephone number published by the Town Hall is 646 256 127. This could be an option for those looking to organize a getaway from a house in the village.
Please confirm availability directly for your dates, capacity, rental type, cancellation policy, and any pet or accessibility requirements. The existence of these accommodations does not guarantee availability or services on a specific date.
Practical information
The Town Hall is located at Plaza Mayor, 1. Telephone: 91 869 30 29. Email:[email protected] tourist information point identified in the library is located at Plaza Mayor, 13; telephone: 91 869 34 78. Please confirm their opening hours before traveling there.
Distinguish Lozoya from Lozoyuela-Navas-Sieteiglesias when preparing your GPS, bookings, or transportation. The coordinates on this page correspond to the point in the municipal capital published by AEMET (Spanish State Meteorological Agency).
For hiking, bring a map of the route, water, and appropriate clothing for the weather forecast, and respect livestock and fences. Check separately for the opening hours of temples, services, and activities. If you want to go canoeing on the reservoir, consult a reputable company and check the required permits before organizing your trip.