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Colmenar Del Arroyo

Top 7 Lakes around Colmenar Del Arroyo

Lakes around Colmenar Del Arroyo are primarily significant reservoirs located in the Community of Madrid, offering various recreational activities. While the town itself does not feature natural lakes, its proximity to these water bodies makes it a point of access for outdoor enthusiasts. The region is characterized by a mix of natural landscapes, including pine forests and rocky areas, providing opportunities for both water and land-based activities. These reservoirs are important for water supply and serve as popular destinations for…

Last updated: July 4, 2026

Picadas Reservoir

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The Picadas reservoir is located between the municipalities of Pelayos de la Presa and Aldea del Fresno, about 60 km from Madrid, in the Sierra de Gredos. This reservoir collects …

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Picadas Reservoir

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The section between San Martín de Valdeiglesias and Aldea del Fresno is very comforting due to the route of the old Alberche train. The path is favorable and you simply …

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San Juan Reservoir Marina

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The San Juan reservoir is located in the municipalities of San Martín de Valdeiglesias, El Tiemblo, Cebreros and Pelayos de la Presa, in the southwestern end of the Community of …

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Labores Stream Pool

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A beautiful place, ideal for taking a break on your route and enjoying the wonderful landscape that surrounds this small pond that is located in the heart of the Alberche …

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Cerro Alarcón Reservoir

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Along this beautiful stretch you can tour the entire west side of the Cerro Alarcón reservoir, located right between the municipalities of Valdemorillo and Navalagamella.
On the other side, easy …

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Tips from the Community

Turicleta
March 26, 2026, Embalse de Picadas

La Presa de Picadas is a hydraulic infrastructure located on the Alberche River, which gives rise to the reservoir of the same name. Surrounded by a natural environment of great beauty, it stands out for its rugged landscapes, pine forests, and calm waters, making it an ideal point of interest to enjoy nature in the Sierra Oeste of Madrid.

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The Embalse de Picadas is a natural enclave located on the course of the Alberche river, surrounded by pine forests and steep slopes that create a landscape of great beauty. Its calm waters and uncrowded environment make it an ideal place to enjoy nature in the Sierra Oeste of Madrid.

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Angel
October 27, 2024, Embalse de Picadas

Easy to find and very nice views.

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The section between San Martín de Valdeiglesias and Aldea del Fresno is very comforting due to the route of the old Alberche train. The path is favorable and you simply have to maintain your inertia through the pine forests of Pelayos de la Presa and the shore of the Picadas reservoir to the dam wall, a delightful cycling ride. At the dam you have to cross a small slope and go down to the Alberche River bridge in Aldea del Fresno, which due to recent floods was under repair the day we passed. The route continues along the entertaining and sandy Camino de Navayuncosa, passing by the Palace of the Count of Caralt and following a section of the old railway to Villamanta, where we once again find damage to the road due to flooding. In the municipality of Navalcarnero we follow the milestones of CiclaMadrid along the rural roads marked with carved and sculpted granite posts with the names of the paths and roads of the municipality, on the map it says Camino de Madrid and on the stone post Camino from Valdeyeso. Navalcarnero has a stop in the square, it is monumental and a good place to have the last snack before the final push. In the Dehesa de Marimartín we reconnect with the route of the old Alberche railway, we pass over the iron bridge of the Guadarrama River and along the greenway we immediately arrive at the lonely streets of Mostoles Tecnológico. In this section, the CiclaMadrid milestones follow a rather uncomfortable livestock route through industrial estates and urban areas, until they cross the peripheral urbanizations of Villaviciosa de Odón and through the old military camps of Venta de la Rubia and the Meaques stream, they enter the Cottage.

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Along this beautiful stretch you can tour the entire west side of the Cerro Alarcón reservoir, located right between the municipalities of Valdemorillo and Navalagamella. On the other side, easy to see due to the narrowness of the reservoir, you can already see houses from the urbanization.

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The Picadas reservoir is located between the municipalities of Pelayos de la Presa and Aldea del Fresno, about 60 km from Madrid, in the Sierra de Gredos. This reservoir collects the waters of the Alberche River and has a recreational area that the whole family will enjoy.

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Nice place I made the route from Toledo to the San Juan reservoir

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A beautiful place, ideal for taking a break on your route and enjoying the wonderful landscape that surrounds this small pond that is located in the heart of the Alberche oak forest and on the bed of the Labores stream. If you are here in summer you can take the opportunity to take a refreshing swim.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What types of lakes can I find around Colmenar Del Arroyo?

While Colmenar Del Arroyo itself doesn't have natural lakes, the surrounding area is rich in significant reservoirs and smaller stream pools. These include large bodies of water like the San Juan Reservoir and El Atazar Lake, as well as more intimate spots such as the Labores Stream Pool.

Which lakes are best for swimming and water sports near Colmenar Del Arroyo?

The San Juan Reservoir Marina, part of the larger San Juan Reservoir, is often called 'Madrid's Beach' and is the only reservoir in the Community of Madrid where swimming and motorized water sports are officially permitted. You can enjoy activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, wakeboarding, and water skiing. It features popular beaches such as Virgen de la Nueva and El Muro.

Are there any lakes suitable for non-motorized water activities?

Yes, El Atazar Lake, the largest reservoir in the Community of Madrid, is ideal for non-motorized water sports. Its calm, clear waters are perfect for sailing, canoeing, windsurfing, kayaking, and fishing. There's even a sailing club in Cervera de Buitrago.

What hiking and cycling opportunities are available around the lakes?

Many lakes offer excellent trails. Around El Atazar Lake, you can explore the extensive 37-mile 'Path of Genaro' (GR-300) for hiking and cycling with panoramic views. The Picadas Reservoir offers a delightful cycling ride along its shore following the old Alberche train path. For more options, explore the hiking routes or cycling routes around Colmenar Del Arroyo.

Are there family-friendly lakes in the Colmenar Del Arroyo area?

Absolutely. The San Juan Reservoir Marina is known for being family-friendly, offering swimming and various activities. The Labores Stream Pool is a small pond in the Alberche oak forest, ideal for a relaxing break and a refreshing swim in summer. The Cerro Alarcón Reservoir also offers family-friendly access and views.

Can I find historical sites or unique natural features near these lakes?

Yes, the area combines natural beauty with historical interest. Near the San Juan Reservoir, you can find parts of a medieval bridge and an old hermitage submerged when the reservoir was created. The Fuentelámparas Pastureland, while featuring seasonal lagoons, also holds ruins of an old flour mill and a Civil War fort.

What is the best time to visit the lakes around Colmenar Del Arroyo?

The best time largely depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for swimming and water sports at San Juan Reservoir. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling around El Atazar Lake and other areas, with vibrant natural landscapes. The Labores Stream Pool is particularly refreshing in summer.

Are there any lakes with amenities like restaurants or parking?

The San Juan Reservoir, particularly at beaches like Virgen de la Nueva and El Muro, offers amenities such as the Red Cross, toilets, parking, and restaurants, making it convenient for visitors.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes near Colmenar Del Arroyo?

Visitors appreciate the diverse recreational opportunities, from swimming and motorized water sports at San Juan Reservoir to tranquil sailing and extensive hiking trails around El Atazar Lake. The scenic beauty, especially the pine forests and rocky landscapes, and the chance to take a refreshing break at spots like the Labores Stream Pool, are highly valued.

Are there any specific cycling routes that pass by the reservoirs?

Yes, the Picadas Reservoir is a highlight for cyclists, offering a delightful ride along its shore to the dam wall, following the route of the old Alberche train through pine forests. You can find more detailed cycling routes in the Cycling around Colmenar Del Arroyo guide.

Can I observe wildlife around the lakes?

El Atazar Lake, situated in a rugged and less human-impacted environment, is rich in flora and fauna, making it an excellent spot for nature observation. The surrounding areas of the reservoirs, with their pine forests and natural landscapes, also provide habitats for various wildlife.

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

ColmenarejoValdemorilloFuenlabradaMóstolesHumanes De MadridNavalagamellaParlaSan Martín De ValdeiglesiasMoraleja De EnmedioValdemoroArroyomolinosChapineríaCadalso De Los VidriosAldea Del FresnoVilla Del PradoPelayos De La PresaNavas Del ReyPantano de ValmayorTorrejón De La CalzadaGriñónTorrejón De Velasco

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