Top 6 Lakes around El Atazar

The region around El Atazar is characterized by a rugged landscape of slate, offering spectacular panoramic views. The natural environment, shaped by the Lozoya River and its reservoirs, provides a unique setting perfect for disconnecting from the city. You'll see impressive dam structures and natural river valleys.

Yes, there are several excellent viewpoints. The region features a 'Red de Miradores' (network of viewpoints) strategically placed around the Embalse de El Atazar, offering privileged panoramic views of the reservoir and surrounding geographic landmarks like the Sierra de Guadarrama. Specific highlights include View of El Atazar Reservoir and View of the El Atazar Reservoir, both highly appreciated by visitors for their incredible vistas.

The Embalse de El Atazar is the largest reservoir in the Community of Madrid, constructed between 1962 and 1972. Its construction was a significant civil engineering feat, employing modern techniques and a large workforce. It plays a crucial role in supplying 46% of the impounded water to the Community of Madrid.

The area is a hub for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy picnicking, hiking, and cycling. Water sports without motors, such as sailing and kayaking, are popular, particularly in areas like the port of El Atazar and Cervera de Buitrago. Fishing for species like black bass and barbel is also possible.

Absolutely. The area offers numerous hiking routes, including sections of the 'Senda del Genaro' (also known as the Senda del Embalse del Atazar), which circles the reservoir. For more detailed routes, you can explore options in the Hiking around El Atazar guide, which features trails like the moderate 'Cancho de la Cabeza Summit – View of the Atazar Reservoir loop'.

Yes, cycling is a popular activity. Motorbike and road bike excursions are common along the winding roads of the Sierra Norte. For off-road adventures, the Gravel biking around El Atazar guide provides routes such as the 'Views of the Lozoya River – El Atazar Reservoir loop'.

Water sports without motors are permitted and popular on the Embalse de El Atazar. This includes activities like sailing, canoeing, and kayaking, especially in designated areas such as the port of El Atazar and Cervera de Buitrago.

Yes, the area is considered a suitable family destination. The natural environment offers tranquility, and nearby towns provide parks and sports courts for children. Many highlights, such as El Villar Reservoir and Gorge and El Atazar Reservoir, are categorized as family-friendly, offering accessible views and spaces for enjoyment.

Small parking lots are available, for example, near the dam of the Embalse de El Atazar. For El Villar Reservoir and Gorge, there is also a small parking lot for about 10 cars next to the dam.

Visitors frequently praise the spectacular views and the natural tranquility of the area. The impressive civil engineering of the dams, like Puentes Viejas Dam, and the opportunity for various outdoor activities like hiking and cycling are also highly valued. The komoot community has given the lakes more than 70 upvotes and shared 42 photos, highlighting their appeal.

Yes, there are several running trails available. The Running Trails around El Atazar guide offers options like the challenging 'Presa de la Parra from Pontón de la Oliva — circular trailrunning through the Cañada de la Caleriza' and the 'Cancho de la Cabeza Summit – Patones de Arriba loop'.