Top 5 Lakes around Pelayos De La Presa
Best lakes around Pelayos De La Presa are centered around the San Juan Reservoir, a significant aquatic feature in the Community of Madrid. This area is known for its pine forests and proximity to the Gredos Mountain Range, offering a natural landscape for outdoor activities. The reservoir collects water from the Alberche and Cofio rivers, providing a diverse environment for exploration. Pelayos De La Presa serves as a gateway to these natural features, which are accessible via the M-501.
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Last updated: July 3, 2026
Picadas Reservoir
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Picadas Reservoir
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San Juan Reservoir Marina
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Labores Stream Pool
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What water activities are permitted at the lakes near Pelayos de la Presa?
The San Juan Reservoir Marina is unique in the Community of Madrid as it's the only reservoir where swimming and motorized water activities are allowed. You can enjoy boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, wakeboarding, and flyboarding. Fishing is also popular, especially outside the busy summer months.
Are there family-friendly beaches or areas around the lakes?
Yes, the San Juan Reservoir offers 14 km of beaches. Virgen de la Nueva Beach is particularly famous and was the first in the Madrid region to receive a Blue Flag. El Muro Beach is another major recreational area with restaurants and a sailboat jetty. The Labores Stream Pool, nestled in an oak forest, is also a beautiful spot for families to take a break.
What kind of natural scenery can I expect around the lakes?
The lakes are set amidst picturesque pine forests at the foothills of the Gredos Mountain Range, offering beautiful views. The San Juan Reservoir collects water from the Alberche and Cófio rivers, creating a diverse environment. You'll find areas like the Alberche oak forest near Labores Stream Pool, providing lush natural surroundings.
Are there hiking trails near the lakes?
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. You can find trails like the 'View of the Lake and Mountains – The Route of the Coves loop' or 'The Route of the Coves loop from Pelayos de la Presa', which offer easy to moderate difficulty. For more options, explore the hiking guide for Pelayos De La Presa.
Can I go cycling around the lakes?
Absolutely. The area is great for cycling, especially around the Picadas Reservoir, where you can enjoy a delightful ride along the route of the old Alberche train through pine forests. There are also gravel biking and general cycling routes available. Check out the cycling guide for Pelayos De La Presa for detailed routes.
What amenities are available at the San Juan Reservoir?
The San Juan Reservoir, particularly around El Muro Beach and Virgen de la Nueva, offers numerous amenities. You'll find restaurants, picnic areas, beach bars, and parking facilities. There's also a sailboat jetty and a campsite near El Muro.
How can I access the lakes, especially the San Juan Reservoir?
The San Juan Reservoir is easily accessible by car via the M-501, often called the 'road of the lakes'. There are ample parking areas, especially near the main beaches. Public transport is also an option, with bus services available from Príncipe Pío in Madrid.
What is the best time to visit the lakes near Pelayos de la Presa?
The lakes are popular year-round, but summer is ideal for water activities and enjoying the beaches. For quieter visits and activities like fishing or hiking, spring and autumn offer pleasant weather. The Labores Stream Pool is noted as a great spot for a refreshing swim in summer.
Are there any secluded spots or 'hidden gems' around the lakes?
For those seeking peace and quiet, the San Juan Reservoir has more secluded areas like Lancha del Yelmo Cove and a nudist cove. These are accessible via a forest track and offer a rugged, rocky profile. The area around Lancha del Yelmo also features equipped climbing routes.
What other outdoor activities are available besides water sports and hiking?
Beyond water sports and hiking, the area around San Juan Reservoir also offers land-based activities such as climbing and archery through local activity clubs. The pine forests and mountainous backdrop provide a great setting for various outdoor pursuits.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes?
While specific dog-friendly regulations can vary by exact location, many natural areas and trails around the lakes are suitable for walks with dogs, provided they are kept under control. Always check local signage for any restrictions, especially on designated beaches or protected areas.
What makes Picadas Reservoir a notable destination?
The Picadas Reservoir is particularly known for its delightful cycling route along the old Alberche train path. This path winds through beautiful pine forests and along the reservoir's shore to the dam wall, offering a scenic ride.
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