Best lakes around Villa Del Prado are primarily reservoirs and natural pools located in the broader Community of Madrid. This region offers diverse aquatic environments, from large reservoirs suitable for water sports to serene stream pools nestled within oak forests. The landscape provides opportunities for various outdoor activities, including cycling and hiking along the shores. These bodies of water are often found in areas with significant natural features, such as the Alberche oak forest.
Last updated: July 4, 2026
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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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This is one of the nicest spots on the lake, with a small beach and a free parking lot above.
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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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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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The most popular lakes include Picadas Reservoir, known for its cycling route along the old Alberche train path, and San Juan Reservoir Marina, a family-friendly spot with facilities. Another favorite is Labores Stream Pool, a tranquil pond nestled in the Alberche oak forest.
Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. Picadas Reservoir offers a recreational area and an easy greenway suitable for all ages. San Juan Reservoir Marina is also noted for its family-friendly facilities. Labores Stream Pool provides a beautiful, calm spot for a break during a family route.
The area around Villa Del Prado's lakes offers diverse outdoor activities. You can enjoy road cycling along routes like the one from Villa del Prado to Pelayos de la Presa, or explore hiking trails such as the 'From Pelayos de la Presa to the Embalse de Picadas via the Vía Verde de Alberche'. Running trails are also available, including the 'Río Alberche loop from Cerro del Cubo'. For more details, check the Road Cycling Routes around Villa Del Prado, Hiking around Villa Del Prado, and Running Trails around Villa Del Prado guides.
Absolutely. You'll find several hiking opportunities. A popular option is the 'From Pelayos de la Presa to the Embalse de Picadas via the Vía Verde de Alberche', which is a moderate 13.4 km trail. For an easier walk, consider the 'Picadas Reservoir – Río Alberche loop from Presa de Picadas' at 7 km. These trails allow you to experience the natural beauty surrounding the reservoirs. More hiking options are available in the Hiking around Villa Del Prado guide.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. The Picadas Reservoir features a delightful cycling ride along the old Alberche train path, passing through pine forests. This route is part of the CiclaMadrid network in some sections. You can find more cycling routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Villa Del Prado guide.
The lakes are set within a rich natural environment. You can explore the Alberche oak forest, especially around Labores Stream Pool. The area also features rugged landscapes, pine forests, and offers magnificent views of the reservoirs and surrounding mountains, including the steep cliffs of Cabrera Baja and Cabrera Alta from spots like ZEPA 56. The river basins of Alberche and Cofio are significant natural reserves for large Iberian birds.
While large reservoirs are primarily for water sports and recreation, Labores Stream Pool, a smaller natural pond in the Alberche oak forest, is mentioned as a place where you can take a refreshing swim, especially during summer.
Yes, the walk past Picadas Reservoir is highly recommended as an easy greenway, without unevenness and suitable for all audiences, including children. It skirts the water, offering a pleasant and accessible experience.
Visitors particularly appreciate the scenic beauty and the variety of activities. The easy cycling routes along the old Alberche train path at Picadas Reservoir are a highlight, as are the tranquil breaks offered by places like Labores Stream Pool. The family-friendly facilities and access to water sports at San Juan Reservoir Marina are also highly valued.
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. For refreshing swims and water sports, the summer months are ideal. For hiking and cycling, spring and autumn offer milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. The natural beauty of the pine forests and oak forests can be enjoyed year-round.
Many of the lakes provide excellent viewpoints. Picadas Reservoir and San Juan Reservoir Marina both offer great vistas of the water and surrounding landscapes. Additionally, ZEPA 56 is specifically noted for its magnificent views of the swamp and the mountains of Valle del Oso, topped by the steep cliffs of Cabrera Baja and Cabrera Alta.


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