Discover Valdemanco

Valdemanco combines its setting in a mountain valley with hiking trails, a seasonal lagoon and local traditions. Art enthusiasts will also find a specific point of interest in visits to the Fundación Berrutti. For travel by intercity bus, route 725 is relevant.

Mountain valley and seasonal lagoon

Valdemanco lies in a small mountain valley enclosed by the Sierra de la Cabrera and the summit of Mondalindo. The peaks reach heights of up to 1,838 metres. In the village, the Arroyo Albalá is the main stream. The landscape can therefore be described through three specific features: the valley, the mountain ranges and the stream.

Another landscape feature is the seasonal Laguna de Valdemanco, also known as El Carrizal. This wetland lies in a semi-endorheic hollow formed by the erosion of weathered granite. The lagoon is also known for the diversity of amphibians that live there. To find the access point, use kilometre 3 of the M-610; from there, a footpath leads to the lagoon. Allow time for this walk when planning your visit.

Hiking trails and the history of transhumance

There are five major hiking trails around Valdemanco. The Cañada Real Segoviana has a particular connection to the region’s history. It crosses the municipality from east to west, along the slopes of Mondalindo to Puerto del Medio Celemín. Sections of the Huellas de la Historia and El Camino de los Pastores routes follow this Cañada. This links specific route segments with the area’s transhumance heritage.

Another named route runs from Valdemanco to Navalafuente and is signposted. Its precise practical details may vary by season, so check the route before setting out. The five major hiking trails provide a general overview of routes around the village, while the route to Navalafuente offers a specific signposted trail.

Art and nature at the Fundación Berrutti

The Fundación Berrutti offers visits to its painting, sculpture, ceramics and engraving workshops. The techniques used in the workshops are also explained. The visit thus brings together several areas of art and offers insight into their working methods. Arrange the details of your visit directly with the Fundación.

The Fundación combines its artistic activities with a natural setting. Visitors can observe the landscape and the native flora and fauna of the Sierra Norte. Art and nature are therefore two distinct aspects of a visit: the work in the studios and the experience of the natural surroundings.

El Mayo and La Vaquilla

El Mayo takes place from the night of 30 April until 1 May. A tall tree, usually a poplar, is chosen, felled and set up in the village square. It remains there throughout May. The custom is therefore tied both to a specific date and to a place in the village.

Valdemanco’s Carnival tradition centres on La Vaquilla. The Quintos of that year organise the custom, which includes a costumed procession through the village. El Mayo and La Vaquilla therefore differ in their timing and form: the May tree in spring is followed by Carnival as a separate cultural occasion.

Getting there by bus

Intercity bus route 725 connects Madrid (Plaza de Castilla) with Miraflores, Bustarviejo and Valdemanco. At Plaza de Castilla interchange station, intercity buses to Valdemanco connect with Madrid’s metro and urban bus network. If you are travelling by bus, check the timetable for route 725 before your journey.

Discover more destinations: Pedrezuela, Pinto, Alameda del Valle, Valdelaguna, Talamanca, Aravaca, Aldea Del Fresno, Pelayos De La Presa.

For the broader travel overview: Madrid.