Santa María de la Alameda: Nature, Trails and History

Santa María de la Alameda combines river landscapes, forest trails, high-altitude areas and historic sites. The ZEPA Encinares del río Alberche y río Cofio in Santa María de la Alameda is part of the Natura 2000 network and covers 82,999 hectares. It is an important area for species such as the Spanish imperial eagle, cinereous vulture and black stork. The Aceña and Cofio rivers also shape the terrain, forming gorges and waterfalls.

Nature, Forests and Birdwatching

The Senda del Hornillo follows the Arroyo Hornillo through riverside vegetation and stands of resin pines and Scots pines. Along the route to the Mirador Peña del Águila, you may spot Spanish imperial eagles, black kites, booted eagles and vultures. The mountain parameras are also interesting for birdwatching: this high-altitude sub-ecosystem offers good opportunities to observe woodland and high-mountain birds, including golden eagles.

The Ruta de los Arroyos offers different scenery, including broom and juniper, as well as panoramic views of the Sierra de la Panamera and Gredos. Riverbanks, forest and open high-altitude areas provide a variety of settings for nature outings.

Compare Watering Spots and Hikes

The Charco-Mato route starts in Las Herreras and covers about one kilometre, taking around 30 minutes as an easy walk to the pool. Charco-Mato is a broad pool with a pleasant pebbly area where you can cool off in warm weather. Check local trail and access conditions in advance.

The El Hornillo circular hike starts at the car park by Puente de la Aceña. It first follows the river to the Chorrera del Hornillo waterfall, then climbs between the valleys of the Río Aceña and the Arroyo Hornillo. Terrain and water conditions can change seasonally. The Bocanegra route leads from La Estación to a pool surrounded by vegetation and rocks, where swimming is possible in a rural setting, subject to local conditions.

The Itinerario por las Parameras is a considerably longer hike: this challenging circular route starts at Santa María de la Alameda railway station, is 17 kilometres long and has an elevation difference of 525 metres. It takes about five hours and 30 minutes, and is signposted along part of the route. By comparison, Charco-Mato is a short walk described as easy, covering about one kilometre and taking around 30 minutes. These details help you gauge the time needed for each route.

There are numerous designated and signposted routes for hiking, cycling and horse riding. The Camino de la Cabrera is a linear drovers’ road between La Estación and Las Herreras, which can be travelled on foot, on horseback or by bicycle. The Camino de Navalayegua passes through a forest of Pinus pinaster and takes in the restored forts of El Zorrerón, the upper reaches of the Río Aceña and the Arroyo de El Tobar.

Historic Buildings and Routes

The church of Nuestra Señora de la Alameda was built in the 16th century. Its architecture includes a late Gothic rib vault and three naves separated by Tuscan granite columns. In La Estación, the historic railway station was built in 1863; its station building and platform have been preserved.

Railways and landscape also meet at Puente Recondo: the seven-arch railway bridge crosses the Río Cofio and is part of the line between Madrid and Ávila. It spans a 50-metre elevation difference between the two banks. The Ruta de los Fortines leads to a restored defensive position from the Spanish Civil War on Cerro Manotera. The Camino de los Cuatro follows historic routes between Santa María de la Alameda and Las Navas del Marqués, linking Navalespino with mills on the Río Cofio.

Getting There and Seasonal Highlights

The Madrid–Ávila regional train stops at La Estación ten times a day. Check current train connections before travelling. Bus route C-665 runs via San Lorenzo de El Escorial and stops at Santa María de la Alameda Pueblo and Santa María de la Alameda Estación; here too, it is worth checking the current timetable.

Santa María de la Alameda is known for mushrooms. The Jornadas Micológicas take place in early November; check the dates and programme for your travel year. Workshops on making gluten-free bread and beer are held in Robledondo; confirm their availability before visiting. At a livestock farmers’ celebration dated 15 May, participants are offered meat from the farmers’ own livestock. Check the programme for the relevant year.

Discover more destinations: El Boalo, Meco, Puebla de la Sierra, Braojos, Villa Del Prado, Tielmes, Somosaguas, Paracuellos De Jarama

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