Free walking tours in Pinilla de Buitrago and what to see

Must-sees

Pinilla de Buitrago is a small village in the Sierra Norte of Madrid, at just over a thousand metres, between the Lozoya river and the Riosequillo reservoir. It was an independent municipality until the mid-19th century and now shares a council with Gargantilla del Lozoya. Its main monument is the church of the Santísima Trinidad, founded in the 16th century, a simple rubble-stone Gothic church typical of mountain architecture.

The great attraction is the landscape. A path of under three kilometres links Pinilla with Gargantilla near the reservoir, suitable for walking, cycling or riding. Between the Riosequillo and Pinilla reservoirs stands the Lozoya viaduct, an early 20th-century railway bridge now out of use. The municipality also has the chapel of Santiago, from the late 14th century. A few kilometres away, Buitrago del Lozoya offers its walled town.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no free tours in Pinilla de Buitrago. What you can book is kayak hire on the Riosequillo reservoir, a very popular plan in summer. The valley also offers guided routes along the Lozoya and photography hides for watching wildlife. If you want to learn about local history, Buitrago del Lozoya is the nearest place for a fuller visit.

How long to spend

The village takes less than an hour to see. With the path to Gargantilla and a walk round the reservoir, allow half a day. Add the kayak and a visit to Buitrago del Lozoya and you have a full day. To explore the upper Lozoya valley as far as Rascafría, a weekend is better.

Where to stay

Accommodation in Pinilla is very limited: a few rural houses and ecotourism stays in the village itself or nearby. Gargantilla del Lozoya, next door, adds a little more. If you cannot find a room, Buitrago del Lozoya is the best alternative, with more services and a few minutes' drive away. Lozoya and Rascafría are options if you want to carry on up the valley.