Trips to Madrid | Xmas & New Year.

Many are convinced that Chinchón is one of the most beautiful towns in Spain. So much so, that in 1974 its old town was declared a Historic-Artistic Site.

 

This Madrid town is famous for having one of the most authentic and charming medieval squares in Spain. Its beautiful Plaza Mayor is a closed enclosure with four accesses that you can reach by strolling through its cobbled streets.

 

Having passed through one of its arches, you can head towards the Clock Tower, the only remaining remnant of the old 14th-century Church of Our Lady of Grace, destroyed in the War of Independence. Nearby you can visit the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, inside which you can admire the canvas of 'The Assumption of the Virgin', a work by Francisco de Goya.

 

Next to the Clock Tower you will also find the Lope de Vega Theatre, built on the ruins of the Palace of the Counts of Chinchón, which disappeared during the War of the Spanish Succession. Take the opportunity to see some of the purposes that it serves during the course of the year.

On the outskirts, the Castle of the Counts, from the late 15th century, is also worth a visit.

Buitrago de Lozoya is one of the most beautiful towns in the north of the Autonomous Community of Madrid. It is a medieval town surrounded by spectacular nature and the Lozoya River, making this destination the perfect place for hiking or canoeing, eating traditional dishes in its restaurants and discovering its rich heritage. A fulfilling excursion!

 

As you stroll around the town you will come across the Town Hall, which houses the Picasso Museum, with an excellent collection of works and pieces by the artist such as drawings, lithographs, ceramics, posters... And what's more, admission is free! Well worth a visit! 😉

 

In its central Plaza de la Constitución you will come across the Clock Tower, the main access to the walled area, whose original 19th-century mechanism is still preserved today.

 

Just beyond the Arco de las Nieves you can reach the high area of the wall, from where you can see incredible views of the town and the wonderful nature that surrounds it.

 

Finally, don't forget to visit the most important religious temple of Buitrago de Lozoya: the Church of Santa María del Castillo, in neo-Mudejar style and located inside the walled area.

Another recommended excursion in the north of the Autonomous Community of Madrid is that of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, easily accessible by car, train or bus.

 

This town is famous for hosting the Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, declared a Historic-Artistic Monument since 1931 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984. And it's no wonder! In addition to visiting its beautiful exterior, we recommend buying tickets - best to get them in advance - to access the enclosure, the best way to explore the history of Spain and the reign of Philip II.

 

Inside are the Library, the Basilica, the Chapter Rooms - with works by El Greco and Velázquez -, the Pantheons - where the Kings and Queens of Spain are buried - as well as the Hall of Battles.

 

But in this beautiful town you can visit other points of interest such as the Garden of the Friars, the vantage point in Adolfo Suárez Park, the Casita del Príncipe, the Casas de Ocios, the King's Stables, the Royal Colosseum of Carlos III and the Colosseum Museum.

If you are a nature lover, a walk around the Herrería Forest will totally recharge your batteries.