Towns and villages
Villanueva del Pardillo: memory of the town and paths of the Guadarrama
The Casona, the reconstructed town center and the paths towards the Guadarrama allow you to discover a municipality where local history accompanies walks through the surroundings.
Automatically translated from Spanish. Leer original en español
Villanueva del Pardillo is located west of Madrid, near Las Rozas and Villanueva de la Cañada. Its landscape combines residential areas, parks, and paths that lead visitors to the Guadarrama River. It's an ideal starting point for combining a stroll through the town with an outing to the surrounding regional park.
The former town of El Pardillo was once part of Galapagar and belonged to the Real del Manzanares estate. On November 4, 1702, it was granted the title of town, a change reflected in its current name. Its agricultural and livestock-raising past remains present in the town's traditions and its connection to its roads.
The Battle of Brunete, during the Civil War, caused destruction that transformed the town center. The subsequent reconstruction explains much of its appearance, while La Casona retains its connection to the town before the conflict. This building, erected around 1900 and also damaged during the war, later housed residents who had lost their homes; today it houses the Luis Parra Municipal Library.
What to see and what to do
The route begins in the Plaza Mayor and winds through the old town, taking in the buildings and houses rebuilt after the war. The old church of San Lucas Evangelista is a key landmark for understanding this period and the continuity of local celebrations.
Visit La Casona, at 3 Recaudación Street. The building houses the Luis Parra Municipal Library. Its facade and history offer a glimpse into the town that survived the war. To visit the interior, please confirm when it is open and respect its use as a library.
The Hermitage of Our Lady of Soto is located in the Fuente del Manchego area. Built by local residents in 1995, it is the destination of the May pilgrimage. Plan your route and check if it will be open or if there will be a celebration before you go.
Plan for a day or a weekend
For a day trip, dedicate the morning to the Plaza Mayor, the streets of the old town, and La Casona. Stop for lunch in the town and reserve the afternoon for its parks or a pre-selected section of the trail, returning to your starting point.
If you'd like a longer hike, the trail to Puente del Retamar can take up a good part of the day. Factor in the return trip as well as the outward journey, and plan your lunch accordingly.
For a weekend getaway, combine a visit to the city with a day in nature. Another option is to combine Villanueva del Pardillo with Villanueva de la Cañada: you can travel between the two towns or plan to hike the R18 trail. If you choose to hike, study the complete route and confirm how you will return.
Where to eat
Bocanegra is located at Avenida de San Pablo, 2. They offer Mediterranean cuisine and also advertise live music. Their contact number is 919 39 56 71.
Confirm the menu and prices for your visit and inquire about reservations. If you'd like to coincide your visit with live music, please check the specific event and its conditions, as this service is not guaranteed for all meals.
The traditional stew, cocido, is a staple at the town's gastronomic celebrations, such as the Gran Cocido Pardillano. These events have their own programs; check the participants and dates of each edition before making plans.
Routes and nature
The R15 trail starts in the town of Villanueva del Pardillo and ends at the Retamar Bridge, next to the Guadarrama River, in the municipality of Las Rozas. It's a linear route of approximately five to six kilometers one way, according to published information. Allow extra time and distance for the return trip if you plan to walk back.
The route offers a close look at the riverside vegetation and the historic bridge. The official information sheet warns of road crossings: check the map and the current condition of the route before setting out.
Route R18 connects the Plaza Mayor of Villanueva del Pardillo with the Plaza de España in Villanueva de la Cañada. Its route passes through the Aulencia area and the La Vilanosa botanical trail, offering views of Villafranca Castle. This castle is located in Villanueva de la Cañada; viewing it from the route does not grant access to its grounds.
For any of these outings, calculate the complete route using the updated map and plan your return independently. Check the weather, warnings, and permitted access points within the regional park.
How to get there and park
The M-509 is an access road to the town from the Majadahonda area. Prepare for your arrival in the town center or at the starting point of your chosen route.
The intercity bus line 643 connects the Moncloa transport hub with Villanueva del Pardillo, passing through Las Rozas. Within the municipality, it stops on Avenida de Madrid, Avenida de Guadarrama, and near Camino Real. Check the route and timetable for both directions on the day of your visit.
The 626A bus connects to Majadahonda train station. Check the bus and train timetables separately if you are planning a combination.
Park only where signage allows. During the festivities, there may be restrictions in the town center; for rural outings, avoid blocking roads and entrances to properties.
Upcoming parties and plans
The patron saint festivities of Saint Luke the Evangelist traditionally take place on October 18th. The opening proclamation, the traditional stew, and the participation of local social clubs are all part of the local celebration.
The City Council announced the program for the 2026 edition on October 2nd. The presentation confirms concerts, children's activities, cultural and sporting events, fireworks displays, bull runs, and religious ceremonies. Consult the detailed program to choose an activity and check its schedule, location, and access requirements.
The pilgrimage to the Virgin of Soto is traditionally celebrated on the third Sunday of May. The image returns from the town center to the hermitage of Fuente del Manchego, accompanied by locals and folk music. This description outlines the tradition; the schedule and events for each year should be confirmed with the official announcement.
Where to sleep
Practical information
The Town Hall is located at Plaza Mayor, 1. Its telephone number is 91 815 00 01. You can request information about activities, municipal services and the access points you need for your tour.
The Luis Parra Municipal Library, in La Casona, is located at Calle Recaudación, 3, and can be reached at 91 810 00 49. Please confirm if it is open for your date if you would like to see the building inside.
Before setting out on your hike, check the AEMET weather forecast for Villanueva del Pardillo and any relevant environmental warnings. If you're relying on public transport, check your return route before you begin. For accessibility needs, inquire about the specific location and route, including directions from the bus stop or parking area.