Towns and villages
Pedrezuela: pastures, reservoir and memory of the town charter
A stroll through the church of San Miguel, the tradition of the Vaquilla and the paths around the Guadalix.
Automatically translated from Spanish. Leer original en español
Pedrezuela stretches north of Madrid, between the town center, the pastureland, and the Guadalix River landscape. The reservoir that bears its name marks the horizon of part of the municipality, while rural roads offer glimpses of a landscape of meadows and holm oaks.
Local history preserves the Repopulation Privilege granted in Segovia in 1331, although the council of Pedrezuela is already documented in the 13th century. The church of San Miguel Arcángel, whose current building dates from the 16th century on top of an earlier structure, combines local stone, a later portal, and a coffered ceiling in the Mudéjar tradition.
The town keeps alive traditions like the January bull run, led by the young men turning 20, and the festivals in honor of Saint Michael and Christ of Mercy. This blend of heritage, community life, and scenery invites visitors to alternate a stroll through the streets with an outing into nature.
What to see and what to do
The route begins in the Plaza de la Constitución and winds through the old town to the parish church of San Miguel Arcángel, next to the Plaza del Cristo. The exterior features the tower, the 17th-century southern portico, and a sundial dated 1685; inside, the 16th-century coffered ceiling is particularly noteworthy. Check opening times before planning a visit. The bronze relief dedicated to the Vaquilla festival commemorates the young men of military age, the cowboys, and the costumed revelers of the local festivities.
Plan for a day or a weekend
Spend the morning exploring the Plaza de la Constitución, the surrounding streets, and the Church of San Miguel. Save lunch to sample the local cuisine, and in the afternoon, take a stroll along the paths of the pastureland. If you have a weekend, you can dedicate another day to a municipal walking or cycling route around the reservoir, choosing one based on its route and the conditions that day.
Where to eat
Roast kid goat is one of the specialties associated with Pedrezuela. You can find it at the town's steakhouses and restaurants and check the menu and availability before you go. For a day of hiking, it's also practical to have lunch in the town center before heading out onto the country lanes.
Routes and nature
The Pedrezuela pastureland, the Moncalvillo streams, and the reservoir area offer diverse landscapes within the same municipality. The Town Hall organizes hiking and cycling routes that have included itineraries along the streams, the Taberneros spring, and the reservoir's springs. Choose a route published by the organizers and check its path, terrain conditions, and any access restrictions before setting out; the reservoir is a natural area essential for water supply.
How to get there and park
By car, Pedrezuela is accessible from the A-1 motorway via the signposted access roads to the town. By public transport, the intercity bus line 193 connects the Plaza de Castilla transport hub in Madrid with Pedrezuela and El Vellón. Check the route and current schedules on the Regional Transport Consortium website before traveling. To explore the town center, use Plaza de la Constitución as a reference point; check local signage before parking.
Upcoming parties and plans
The Vaquilla festival is traditionally celebrated on January 20th, coinciding with Saint Sebastian's Day. Young people from the town portray the heifer, cowboys, and masked figures in this festival, which has been declared of Regional Tourist Interest. The patron saint festivities honor Saint Michael the Archangel and the Holy Christ of Mercy, associated with September 29th and 30th respectively. The town's founding charter of 1331 is also commemorated. The events and schedules for each edition depend on the confirmed municipal program.
Where to sleep
Practical information
The Town Hall is located at Plaza de la Constitución, 1. The town center and the residential areas of Montenebro and Atalaya Real are part of the same municipality. To plan excursions, check the municipal information on routes and possible activities, and consult the Regional Transport Consortium for updated bus stops and timetables.