Towns and villages
Paracuellos de Jarama: history, viewpoints and trails
The historic center looks towards Madrid from the heights, while Belvis and the banks of the Jarama complete a visit of heritage and landscape.
Automatically translated from Spanish. Leer original en español
Paracuellos de Jarama offers two perspectives of the same territory: the hills overlooking Madrid and the lower area near the river. The historic center, the Miramadrid expansion, and the Belvis district are all part of a municipality whose charm allows visitors to alternate between exploring urban heritage and enjoying walks through the Jarama landscape.
Its medieval past was linked to the Order of Santiago. In the 16th century, the establishment of the Pardo and de la Cerda estates spurred the construction of a group of buildings that continue to define the historic center. The palace known as the Palace of the Dukes of Medinaceli and the Church of San Vicente Mártir, whose construction began in 1587, are landmarks from that period.
Other places tell the everyday story of the town: the Town Hall, inaugurated in 1928 to house both the Town Hall and the school, and the washhouse, which recalls the work linked to the water supply. The Picón del Cura viewpoint allows you to complete this understanding of the town with a panoramic view of Madrid and, when visibility is good, of the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range.
What to see and what to do
It begins in the Plaza de la Constitución, next to the Town Hall and the Church of San Vicente Mártir. The church's facade still bears a reference to the start of construction in 1587. Check with the parish if you wish to enter.
The Palace of the Dukes of Medinaceli, located at 27 Santa Ana Street, features a two-story Renaissance courtyard and coats of arms associated with its former owners. The complex is used for public and educational purposes; please confirm visiting conditions before attempting to enter.
Continue towards Picón del Cura to admire the Madrid skyline. You can complete your visit with the old washhouse and its basins, which offer a glimpse into the daily life of the former village. The paths leading to the site are steep, so plan your route accordingly.
Plan for a day or a weekend
For a day trip, dedicate the morning to the historic center: Plaza de la Constitución, San Vicente Mártir, and the exterior of the Medinaceli Palace. Reserve the interior of the church for a visit that you have confirmed is open. Afterward, you can have lunch in the town.
In the afternoon, choose between Picón del Cura and a stroll around the old washhouse. If you prefer hiking, plan your PR-M 44 route beforehand and allow plenty of time for its ascents and descents.
For a weekend getaway, dedicate a second trip to Belvis and the lagoon landscape. Arrange transportation between villages and the return journey for any linear routes. If you're looking to watch the sunset from a viewpoint, check the weather and sunset time when planning your day.
Where to eat
El Albero, located at 5 Paquito Muñoz Street, offers traditional roast suckling pig, kid goat, and lamb. They list their phone number, 91 658 09 89, for reservations. Please inquire if your desired dish requires advance notice.
Before organizing a group meal, confirm the days of service, the price of the chosen proposal, and allergen information.
Routes and nature
The PR-M 44 trail, El Lavadero and Las Guindaleras, begins and ends in Plaza de San Pedro. It descends to the old washhouse, explores the area around Las Guindaleras, and returns via higher ground with views. The trail includes some inclines; please consult the information sheet and the updated route before setting out.
The Lagunas and Belvis del Jarama route, described by the Amadablan Group, starts at the Veguilla road and ends in Belvis, near Colonos Park. It combines riverside paths and lagoons and requires planning the return trip as it is a linear route. There are sections with occasional traffic, and the route affects the San Isidro hunting reserve: check the hunting notices and schedules for your chosen day.
Stay on designated trails, respect agricultural land, and observe wildlife from a distance. Also, check the conditions of crossings near the river and carry water.
How to get there and park
The M-111 is one of the main access routes to and from the Barajas and Jarama area. Enter your specific destination address: the historic center, Miramadrid, and Belvis require different access routes and routes.
The intercity bus line 211 connects Madrid, from the Canillejas intermodal station, with Paracuellos de Jarama, passing through the Barajas area. Check the Regional Transport Consortium website for the correct stop and return times for your chosen day. For other towns, consult the specific lines and services that serve them.
Park in designated areas and respect driveways and access points to homes. Do not use farm roads or property entrances as makeshift parking.
Upcoming parties and plans
The patron saint festivities are traditionally linked to Pentecost and honor Christ of Health, Our Lady of the Riverbank, and Saint Nicholas of Bari. Their position on the calendar changes each year; the specific dates and activities should be checked in the program for each edition.
Saint Vincent Martyr is traditionally celebrated on January 22nd. Belvis celebrates Saint James the Apostle on July 25th, within the festive calendar of the same municipality.
The guided tours with local historians and the culinary activities are listed in specific municipal announcements. Check the schedule and registration requirements before attending; a past event does not guarantee a new date.
Where to sleep
Hostal Paracuellos publishes its address at Calle Real, 34, and the telephone number 91 658 07 95. Its location allows you to plan a stay in the town center and organize visits around the municipality from there.
Check availability directly for your dates, room type, and arrival and cancellation policies. If your stay is airport-related, please confirm separately how you will arrange your transfer and the time required for your flight day.
Practical information
The municipal tourism contact is located at Plaza de la Constitución, 1, and its telephone number is 91 658 00 01. You can check the tours, activities and conditions of access to the heritage sites.
Distinguish between the historic center, Miramadrid, and Belvis when planning directions and stops. To visit buildings with religious, educational, or administrative uses, confirm the entry requirements.
Before hiking along the riverbanks or hills, check the AEMET weather forecast for Paracuellos de Jarama and any local advisories. If you require specific accessibility information, inquire about the location and access points you will be using.