Towns and villages
Valdemorillo: stone, ceramics and the paths of the Aulencia
The Church of the Assumption, the heritage of its old pottery factory and the paths between meadows and riverbanks allow you to discover a municipality with history and cultural life.
Automatically translated from Spanish. Leer original en español
Valdemorillo is located west of the Community of Madrid, south of the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range. The Valmayor reservoir and the Aulencia and Perales rivers are part of the landscape within its boundaries, where the town center coexists with residential developments and open spaces. Its streets retain traces of rural life, while the cultural scene offers reasons to linger beyond a brief stroll.
The town's location on a Royal Road fostered its prosperity during the second half of the 15th century. In the 16th century, the construction of the El Escorial monastery attracted artists and stonemasons to the area. The Church of the Assumption, built and enlarged between the late 15th and 16th centuries, reflects this evolution: it combines late Gothic elements with a façade influenced by the Herrerian style.
Another pivotal chapter began with the earthenware factory founded by Juan Falcó in 1845. Later, glassmaking was added to the ceramic production under Juan Giralt Laporta. The Civil War interrupted this industrial activity. Today, CUMVAL and the Giralt Laporta Cultural Center offer a glimpse into that past through its artifacts and the restored factory spaces.
What to see and what to do
Begin at the parish church of the Assumption of Our Lady, declared a Site of Cultural Interest in the Monument category. Its architecture combines a late Gothic nave, ribbed vaults, and a façade linked to the architectural style of El Escorial. To visit the interior, check with the parish for opening times and respect religious services.
Balconcillos Street, the Fuente del Caño fountain, and the old washhouses enhance the experience of walking through the old town. They offer glimpses into how daily life and services were organized in the old village.
The Cave Museum of Ceramics and Glass (CUMVAL) preserves earthenware, porcelain, and glass from the municipality's industrial past. The Giralt Laporta Cultural Center incorporates remains of the old factory and hosts exhibitions and activities. Both spaces offer insights into the relationship between industrial heritage and contemporary culture. Contact the Tourist Office for information on guided tours.
The Valmayor hermitage completes the religious heritage of the area. Plan your trip and confirm access conditions if you wish to visit its interior.
Plan for a day or a weekend
For a day trip, start with the town center and the exterior of the Church of the Assumption. Continue to Balconcillos and its water-related features, and then set aside time for CUMVAL if you've confirmed your visit. A meal in town and an exhibition at the Cultural Center will round out your day without any extra travel.
For a weekend getaway, dedicate one day to heritage sites and another to hiking. The R19 trail towards Villanueva de la Cañada is a good option for those who want to take a longer hike. It's a one-way route: plan your return before setting out and don't add a visit with a fixed time at the end without allowing extra time.
If you prefer a shorter outing, choose a section with a return trip along the same path and calculate the total distance. The local tourism office can provide information on guided tours and activities planned for your dates.
Where to eat
Manolo Franco's restaurant is located at Calle La Fuente, 6. Manu Franco's restaurant offers tasting menus and a menu inspired by the Sierra de Madrid region. It's a great option for those looking to dedicate time to a gastronomic experience as part of a getaway.
The information and reservations phone number is 626 61 57 39. Before booking, please confirm the current menu, its duration, the total price, and the cancellation policy. If you have allergies or need dietary adjustments, please check directly with the restaurant.
Routes and nature
The R19 trail connects the Church of the Assumption in Valdemorillo with the Plaza de España in Villanueva de la Cañada. The Madrid Regional Government's information sheet indicates a 9.7-kilometer one-way hike, taking approximately three hours, and is of low difficulty. The route crosses meadows, broom thickets, and areas with scattered holm oaks; among its points of interest is a Civil War fort. The estimated time does not include the return walk to the starting point.
Route R14 connects the Church of Santiago Apóstol in Colmenarejo with the Church of the Assumption in Valdemorillo. It is a linear route, 16.2 kilometers long, and takes about five hours to walk, according to the regional information sheet. It follows livestock trails and old paths, crosses the Aulencia River, and passes by the remains of a mill. Although classified as easy, its length requires planning the day. The information sheet warns of dangerous crossings and sections along roads.
Check the map, current warnings, and weather forecast before choosing a route. Arrange your return using pre-confirmed transport or also calculate the return journey on foot. Keep your visits to historical sites to designated paths and access points.
How to get there and park
The intercity bus line 641 connects the Moncloa interchange in Madrid with Valdemorillo. Its urban route varies between weekdays and weekends/holidays: check the stop you need, as well as the departure and return times. Some trips have specific routes, so it's advisable to verify the indicated destination.
By car, the M-600 connects the town with the area around El Escorial. From Madrid, you can take the A-6 and continue on the roads towards El Escorial and Valdemorillo, adjusting the route to your exact destination.
There is a municipal surface parking lot on Las Fraguas Street, open since October 2026. The City Council has set a two-hour maximum stay. Check the signage and opening days and hours; this limit means you'll need to find another authorized parking option for a longer walk or visit. Don't assume you'll find a space.
Upcoming parties and plans
The patron saint festivals of Candelaria and San Blas are traditionally celebrated on February 2nd and 3rd. The bullfighting festival and the running of the bulls are part of the festivities, along with cultural, sporting, and popular activities.
The pilgrimage to the Virgin of Hope, in June, carries the image from the parish church to the Valmayor hermitage. The rural gathering and the rondón dance are part of this tradition. The rondón is also present in other local celebrations.
These references reflect customs and the usual schedule. Consult the program for each edition for confirmed dates, events, and participation requirements. For other plans, check the agenda of the Giralt Laporta Cultural Center and the tours organized by the Tourism Office.
Where to sleep
The municipal directory lists the Hostal Hermanos Sánchez, located at Plaza de la Constitución, 8. The contact telephone number listed is 91 897 74 13. Its location in the town center makes it ideal for organizing a stay focused on the town's heritage.
Check availability for your dates and room features directly. Confirm the total price, included services, cancellation policy, and arrival conditions before booking. If you have accessibility requirements, inquire about access to the building and the specific room.
Practical information
The Municipal Tourist Office is located in the Giralt Laporta Cultural Center on La Paz Street. Their phone number is 91 897 76 15. They offer information about the municipality and organize tours related to CUMVAL and the Stone Route. Please confirm the meeting point, date, and registration details before visiting.
Visits to the interior of the church depend on its opening hours and any services. For the museum and cultural activities, please check in advance which areas are accessible. If you require specific accessibility features, consult each building and the route between them.
The town center, residential areas, and starting points for the routes are not in the same location. Double-check the directions when planning your day. For hiking, consult the AEMET weather forecast for Valdemorillo, calculate the entire route, and confirm how you will return to your starting point.