Audio Guide of Santillana Reservoir

The reservoir is accessible during daylight hours at all times (recommended from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.). It is reached via the M-608 in Manzanares El Real. Check conditions during the rainy season on the Madrid Tourism website.

Access is completely free, as it is a natural area. A donation is only recommended at the Hermitage of Santillana if you visit this adjacent monument.

From 2 to 4 hours, depending on the activities: viewpoints only (1 hour), a full walk along the dam wall (2 hours), or a combination with hiking to the Hermitage of Santillana (3-4 hours).

Built in 1969, it supplies water to Madrid and is part of the Upper Manzanares Basin Regional Park (the region's first protected natural park in 1985).

Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) for the mild temperatures and more colorful landscapes. Avoid July-August because of the heat and winter because of possible closures due to snow.

Only the access to the main viewpoint (next to the car park) is accessible, but not the rest of the trails or the dam wall because of the uneven ground with steps and stones.

5 minutes away: Mendoza Castle (guided tours) and the town of Manzanares El Real. 15 km away: Sierra de Guadarrama National Park and La Pedriza. More info at Manzanares Tourism.

1) Wear sports shoes for uneven ground 2) Sun protection is essential 3) Check the weather in advance at AEMET (the reservoir closes in bad weather) 4) Bring water and snacks.