Villamanrique de Tajo: River Landscape, Nature and Culture

Anyone considering a holiday apartment in Villamanrique de Tajo can incorporate the town into their travel plans through its river landscape, trails, nature observation opportunities and historic sites. A notable starting point is the Parque Fluvial: this 40,000 m² natural area is surrounded by the Tajo like an island and can only be reached via a wooden and stone bridge.

River and Nature

The Parque Fluvial is a protected natural area with trails among native pines, tamarisks and elms, as well as birds and aquatic species. At the entrance there is a picnic area with numerous tables and benches; there is also a car park there. In the Parque Fluvial, a landing stage extends over the riverbed, offering views of the sunset.

Various facilities are available there for physical activity, including exercise equipment, a calisthenics area and children's playgrounds. Designated areas are provided for futsal, basketball and tennis. The different aspects of the area can be arranged as separate focuses for your daily planning, such as nature observation, exercise or a break by the river.

Trails

A historic trail initially runs parallel to the Tajo, crosses a wooden bridge and then the M-325. It then follows a path intended exclusively for hikers, passing the Peñas de González, agricultural land and areas of former quarries. In the direction of Valdegrana, the route rises and leads through the first pine forests; the Tajo lies to the south of the trail.

Along this route are natural kilns that were used in the area to exploit gypsum-bearing soils. A viewpoint offers a wide elevated view of Villamanrique de Tajo and the fields of the Vega.

At the end of the trail is the “Las Cuevas” recreational area. From there, the church of Villamanrique de Tajo and its bell tower can be seen; there is also a large information board about stages 17 and 18 of the Camino Natural del Tajo. The trail also has a birdwatching hut and an open area where rabbits may be seen.

Culture and History

The Iglesia de Santa María de Albuher is a single-nave church with a three-part bell tower whose upper section is octagonal. On the Finca de Buenamesón are the Palacio de Buenamesón, a 17th-century building, and a 16th-century church.

The historic Salinas de Carcaballana date back to the 18th century. Preserved there are a mine from which salt was extracted and wooden pipes through which the water flowed to the former spa.

The patron-saint festivities of Villamanrique de Tajo take place in mid-September. The programme includes children's games, sporting competitions, fireworks, bull-related events, folk dancing, a procession and a Romería.

Anyone choosing a holiday apartment in Villamanrique de Tajo can compare travel dates, room category and cancellation conditions side by side. The focuses on river landscapes, cultural sites, exercise and nature observation can be incorporated independently into their personal travel plans.

Other places in the same higher-level area: Brea De Tajo, Gargantilla Del Lozoya, El Gasco, Talamanca, Los Molinos, Buitrago Del Lozoya, Pinto and Horcajo De La Sierra.

Getting There

Bus route 353 departs from Ronda de Atocha in Madrid.

To the higher-level travel overview: Madrid.