Image | Telemadrid
The San Juan reservoir is known to many as the Madrid beach. This place located 52 kilometers from the capital is where many Madrilenians come in summer in search of a refreshing bath that allows them to forget about the high temperatures. The water and vegetation of the Sierra Oeste make up this oasis that also supplies water to the southwestern part of the Community of Madrid and is used to generate electricity.
The San Juan reservoir is located between the municipalities of San Martín de Valdeiglesias and Pelayos de la Presa. Here are two very crowded beaches. San Martín de Valdeiglesias, known as the Virgen de la Nueva beach, is the first beach in Madrid to achieve the appreciated blue flag that indicates that its waters are suitable for bathing and for motor activities. El Muro beach belongs to Pelayos de la Presa.
Both beaches are adapted for bathers to enjoy the environment without worries. The Virgen de la Nueva beach area is divided into two parts: one equipped for bathing and the other for boats and aid stations. The rescue service is active until September, with morning and afternoon hours.
Image | The Independent
Activities in the San Juan Reservoir
The San Juan reservoir has almost 14 km of beaches surrounded by nature. There are many activities that can be done in the swamp. In the water coming from the Alberche river (tributary of the Tagus and the Cofio) it is possible to practice water skiing, canoeing, kayaks, wakeboarding, boat trips, motorboats with skipper or aquatic bananas while on land you can carry out bicycle rides and horseback riding, hiking, archery, climbing and guided tours of the surroundings.
Many people go to the swamp to enjoy a picnic. There are both picnic areas and a recreational area that has restaurants to try more elaborate menus or order some sandwiches if you do not bring any food.
Image | Madridfree
Location
To get to the San Juan reservoir by private vehicle you have to go by the N501, instead to do it by public transport, you can get there with the 551 bus line from Príncipe Pío. Given the large number of people who come in summer, it is best to get up early to get a good place.