Best lakes around Loeches offer diverse natural and recreational opportunities within the wider Community of Madrid. The region features several notable lakes and reservoirs, many of which are artificial lagoons resulting from past mining operations now reclaimed by nature. These water bodies provide settings for various outdoor activities, including bird watching and hiking. The area is characterized by a mix of natural landscapes and rewilded former industrial sites.
Last updated: July 4, 2026
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This lagoon is artificial, created from the extraction of aggregates in the Jarama River basin during the 1960s and 1970s. It is an ideal place to enjoy nature, hike, or cycle. The lagoon's perimeter measures approximately 5.5 km, and its average depth is 6 meters, although in some areas it can reach 20 meters. It also has a natural resources interpretation center that organizes workshops and educational activities.
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The Campillo Lagoon is located in Rivas Vaciamadrid, within the Southeast Regional Park, about 20 km from Madrid. It is a protected natural area, ideal for peaceful walks and outdoor activities. Origin: Artificial, formed in the 1960s and 70s after the extraction of aggregates in the Jarama River basin. Water from the aquifer filled the excavations and over time became a wetland with great biodiversity.
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Without a doubt, one of those places in Madrid where you can find tranquility
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Short but tough ramp to climb to this viewpoint
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I don't have photos but I love this area of those lagoons, there are several shelters for cyclists or bikepacking
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Important wetland near Velilla where animal and plant species of all types accumulate and develop. It is a focus of life!
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Wetland full of animal and plant life where many species of all kinds develop!
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The lakes around Loeches are primarily artificial lagoons, many of which are former mining sites that have been rewilded and reclaimed by nature. These include places like Campillo Lagoon and Miralrío Lagoon, which now offer diverse habitats for wildlife and recreational spaces.
Yes, several spots are great for families. Campillo Lagoon has viewpoints, benches, and a track around its perimeter, ideal for walks with children. Europa Park in Torrejón de Ardoz, though not a natural lake, features a lake where you can sail by boat or cross on a zip line, alongside replicas of European monuments and other attractions.
The rewilded lagoons are excellent for bird watching. Campillo Lagoon has dedicated viewpoints for observing riverside flora and numerous birds, including migratory species. Miralrío Lagoon is another beautiful spot where you can easily see native birds and raptors.
For spectacular views, visit the View of Laguna del Campillo from the Cortados de Rivas. This viewpoint offers a striking contrast between the lagoon's vegetation, the winding Jarama River, and the gypsum cliffs. You can often spot waterfowl from here, and on clear days, even the silhouette of Madrid.
Yes, there are various hiking opportunities. You can find routes like the 'Parque Europa Loop' (easy, 3.5 km) or the 'Cerro de Monte Alto Loop' (easy, 8.2 km) which offer pleasant walks. For more options, explore the Hiking around Loeches guide.
Absolutely. The area offers several routes suitable for mountain biking. For example, the 'Campillo Lagoon – Miralrío Lagoon loop from Loeches' is a moderate 40 km route. You can discover more trails in the MTB Trails around Loeches guide.
The Ruins and Lagoons of Parque Regional del Sureste offer a beautiful river landscape combined with ancient ruins. Additionally, Europa Park, while modern, features replicas of significant European monuments, providing a cultural experience.
Visitors appreciate the transformation of former industrial sites into natural havens. They particularly enjoy the tranquility, the opportunities for bird watching, and the scenic views, especially from spots like the Cortados de Rivas overlooking Campillo Lagoon. The family-friendly aspects of places like Campillo Lagoon are also highly valued.
While the immediate lakes around Loeches are more for nature observation, the wider Community of Madrid offers larger reservoirs for water sports. The San Juan Reservoir, often called 'Madrid Beach,' is the only one where swimming and motorized water sports are permitted, offering activities like boating, kayaking, and jet skiing. El Atazar Reservoir also allows paddleboarding and boat rentals.
Yes, within Madrid city, you can visit the Casa de Campo Lake, an artificial lake in Madrid's largest urban park, offering boating and canoeing. The Great Pond of Buen Retiro in Retiro Park is another iconic artificial lake where you can rent rowboats and enjoy historical surroundings.
The rewilded lagoons are beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for walking and bird watching, with migratory birds often present. Summer can be warm, but the natural settings provide a refreshing escape. Winter walks can also be peaceful, especially for observing resident bird species.
Many of the trails around the lagoons are relatively easy and suitable for beginners. For instance, the track around Campillo Lagoon is flat and well-maintained. You can find easy hiking routes like the 'Parque Europa Loop' in the Hiking around Loeches guide.


Still not found your perfect lake around Loeches? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.