Towns and villages
Pinilla del Valle: Neanderthals, trades and landscape by the reservoir
A village in the Upper Lozoya Valley where archaeology shares the spotlight with rural memory and paths between meadows and water.
Automatically translated from Spanish. Leer original en español
Pinilla del Valle occupies a section of the upper Lozoya Valley, near the headwaters of the Pinilla Reservoir. Meadows dotted with ash trees, orchards, and oak groves on the hillsides surround a cluster of houses arranged in small blocks. Water and mountains form the backdrop for a visit that can combine heritage, archaeology, and walks through the valley.
The history of the village is linked to the Lozoya district and the ancient lands of Segovia. Its agricultural economy left behind buildings and tools that still help us understand local life: the Church of San Miguel Arcángel, built at the end of the 15th century, the Navazo mill, and the horse-shoeing frame. The construction of the reservoir between 1965 and 1967 transformed the landscape and added a new function to the valley: supplying water to Madrid.
The municipality also offers a glimpse into a past predating the town's existence. At Calvero de la Higuera, animal remains, tools, and traces of human occupation allow for the study of Neanderthals and their environment. The discovery of Cueva del Camino in 1979 initiated an investigation that gained new momentum in 2002; since 2015, the archaeological park has been sharing this work with the public through guided tours.
What to see and what to do
Valley of the Neanderthals
A visit to the Calvero de la Higuera archaeological park is Pinilla's main cultural activity. The guide explains how the findings at the sites are interpreted: hearths, tools, and animal remains allow visitors to distinguish areas used by humans from those occupied by carnivores. The Navalmaíllo Rock Shelter, the Buena Pinta Cave, and the Des-Cubierta Cave are some of the sites within the complex.
Access is by guide and confirmed reservation only. The meeting point is at the tourist information office, located at Calle del Embalse, 11. The activity includes a walk from the village, approximately four kilometers in total and lasting about two hours.
Heritage of the old town
Visit the Church of San Miguel Arcángel to admire its Gothic portal. Its main chapel features a ribbed vault; interior visits depend on the church's opening hours. The Navazo watermill offers a glimpse into the use of water for grinding grain: contact the Town Hall to inquire about the possibility of a guided tour. The horse-shoeing frame, located next to the entrance roundabout, evokes memories of traditional trades.
Plan for a day or a weekend
For a day trip, first book the archaeological park and adjust the rest of your itinerary to fit your confirmed time slot. After the visit, spend time exploring the town center, the church, and the area around the reservoir. Lunch in the village can be a nice break between the archaeological site and your walk.
If you prefer to focus on rural heritage, start with the horse-shoeing frame and plan your visit to the Navazo mill in advance. Complete the day with a stroll through the streets and enjoy the views of the water.
For a weekend getaway, set aside one day for Pinilla and another to explore the valley from the nearby villages of Alameda del Valle or Lozoya. If you plan to hike between towns, check the condition of your chosen section and arrange your return before setting out; bus connections must adhere to current timetables.
Where to eat
The municipal offer includes El Corralón del Embalse, at Calle de la Presa, 26, and La Nogalera, at Avenida de los Nogales, 38. To check opening times and make reservations, the published telephone numbers are 91 869 34 38 and 91 869 34 15, respectively.
La Cañada is located on the path to the archaeological site and can be included in a day trip focused on the archaeological area. Its activities are seasonal, so it's advisable to confirm whether it's open on the day of your visit.
Arrange the kitchen hours, reservation, and any dietary requirements directly with the establishment. Coordinating your meal with the archaeological park's opening hours will prevent you from having to rush your visit.
Routes and nature
The Lozoya Valley Nature Trail connects Pinilla with Alameda del Valle and Lozoya. It enters the town center via Calle de la Presa and passes by the Town Hall and the church. Towards Lozoya, it alternates between ash groves and sections near the reservoir and Pyrenean oak forests.
Another branch leads to the hermitage of Our Lady of the Conception: it ascends towards the M-604, passes through a grove, and reaches the hermitage below the road. The route described returns to Pinilla along the same path.
The Natural Trails program warns of conservation issues that may impassable in some sections. Confirm the specific condition of your chosen route with local tourist information before setting out. For shorter outings, ask for directions to trails in the immediate vicinity of the town center and the reservoir. Please respect fences, properties, and livestock.
How to get there and park
By car, access from Madrid can be arranged via the A-1 and the M-604, which runs through the Lozoya Valley; then follow the signs towards Pinilla del Valle.
The intercity bus line 194 connects Madrid, from Plaza de Castilla, with Rascafría and passes through Pinilla. Line 194A links Buitrago del Lozoya and Lozoyuela with the valley, also passing through the municipality. Check the departure times and return journeys for your chosen day, especially if you have an archaeological visit booked.
For the archaeological park, the organizers advise leaving your vehicle in the village and continuing on foot. Park where indicated by the signs, without blocking entrances or access roads. The Town Hall has designated a motorhome parking area at Travesía de la Iglesia, 11; please confirm its terms and conditions before booking.
Upcoming parties and plans
Saint Michael, the town's patron saint, is traditionally celebrated on September 29th. In May, the pilgrimage to the Virgin of the Immaculate Conception stands out, taking place on the third Sunday of the month and involving a procession from the church to the hermitage.
The local calendar also includes Saint Paul's Day on January 25th and the May Cross. These dates reflect local traditions. To attend a celebration, consult the Town Hall's annual program: events, times, and specific dates may vary.
Visits to the Neanderthal Valley are another reason to plan a getaway, always within the opening schedule and with a confirmed reservation.
Where to sleep
Casitas Pinilla del Valle brings together the Casita de los Maestros and the Casita de los Arqueólogos, two independent and attached rural houses located on Avenida del Río, 31 and 33. Their location within the town allows you to organize walks through the town center and visits to the reservoir area.
The contact number for information and reservations is 617 401 805. Please check availability for your dates, capacity, rental conditions, and any services you require. If you are traveling with pets or have accessibility needs, please confirm these details before booking.
Practical information
The tourist information point is located at Calle del Embalse, 11; telephone: 610 128 315. The Town Hall is located at Plaza del Gobernador, 1; telephone: 91 869 30 52. Confirm availability before traveling and use these contacts to plan visits to local heritage sites.
For the archaeological park, bring your booking confirmation and arrive at the meeting point fifteen minutes early. The tour takes place outdoors: please bring water, appropriate footwear, and sun protection according to the forecast. The organizers indicate that the site is not wheelchair or stroller accessible and that there are no public restrooms along the route; please inquire about any specific needs when booking.