Free walking tours in Rascafría and what to see

Must-sees

Rascafría is the main village of the upper Lozoya valley, in the heart of the Sierra de Guadarrama. On its outskirts is the monastery of Santa María de El Paular, founded as a Carthusian monastery in the late 14th century and now home to Benedictine monks. Its alabaster altarpiece and the cloister with Vicente Carducho's series of paintings stand out. Next to the monastery, the Puente del Perdón crosses the river.

The natural setting is the reason for many visits. In summer, Las Presillas are natural pools in the river Lozoya. A classic route climbs to the Purgatorio waterfalls through pines and oaks. There are also the Bosque de Finlandia, with its cabin by a pond, and the Giner de los Ríos arboretum. From the Cotos pass you reach Peñalara and its glacial lakes.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no free walking tours in Rascafría, but there are guided visits to the El Paular monastery, the way to see the cloister and church inside. The usual options in the area are guided hikes, birdwatching outings or interpretive walks in the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park, and trips to Peñalara and the Purgatorio waterfalls.

How long to spend

In one day you can see El Paular in the morning and spend the afternoon at the Puente del Perdón, the Bosque de Finlandia or Las Presillas. To do the Purgatorio waterfalls and Peñalara at leisure, allow two or three days, especially if you like walking or come in autumn for the forest colours.

Where to stay

The best choice is to sleep in Rascafría itself, where the restaurants and services are, or in the El Paular area, by the monastery and the river. Another option is the neighbouring valley villages, such as Oteruelo or Alameda del Valle, smaller and quieter. You will need a car to get around the valley comfortably and drive up to the passes.