A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Discover Cercedilla: A Natural Paradise in the Heart of Madrid

Introduction

Cercedilla is a charming municipality located in the Sierra de Guadarrama, in the Community of Madrid, Spain. This picturesque village is famous for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant local culture. With its impressive mountainous landscape, its ancient cobblestone streets, and its peaceful atmosphere, Cercedilla is a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in nature.

Natural Attractions

The main attraction of Cercedilla is its wonderful natural surroundings. The municipality is surrounded by dense forests of pine, oak, and chestnut trees, and is crisscrossed by numerous mountain trails that offer stunning panoramic views of the Sierra de Guadarrama. Among the most notable places is the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park, a vast protected natural area that is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.

Outdoor Activities

Cercedilla offers a wide range of outdoor activities for all tastes. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the numerous mountain trails that cross the municipality, while cycling fans can enjoy the exciting mountain biking routes. In winter, Cercedilla becomes a popular skiing destination, with several cross-country and alpine ski slopes available at the nearby Navacerrada ski resort.

Historical and Cultural Heritage

In addition to its impressive natural beauty, Cercedilla also boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage. The old town of the municipality is full of charm, with its narrow cobblestone streets, its ancient stone houses, and its picturesque squares. Among the historical sites of interest is the Church of San Sebastian, a beautiful 16th-century building, and the Puente del Descalzo, an ancient Roman bridge.

Local Cuisine

Cuisine is another of the great attractions of Cercedilla. The municipality is famous for its traditional dishes from the Sierra de Guadarrama, such as roast lamb, garlic soup, and migas. In addition, Cercedilla has several restaurants and bars where you can taste these and other delicious local dishes.

How to Get There

Cercedilla is well connected with the rest of the Community of Madrid. It can be reached by car via the M-622 road, or by train from the Atocha station in Madrid. In addition, the municipality has a bus network that connects with the main points of interest in the area.

Gastronomic Products of Cercedilla

• Madrilenian Stew

  Cercedilla, although a mountain village, does not lag behind in the tradition of the Madrilenian stew. This dish, served in three stages, is a combination of chickpeas, vegetables, pork and beef, and sausages. It is a hearty dish and highly appreciated in the winter months.

• Meat from the Sierra de Guadarrama

  The Sierra de Guadarrama, where Cercedilla is located, is famous for its beef and lamb. The animals are raised on mountain pastures, which gives them a unique flavor and texture. The restaurants in Cercedilla offer these products in a variety of dishes, from chops to stews.

• Honey from the Sierra

  The honey from the Sierra de Guadarrama is another standout product of Cercedilla. This honey, produced by bees that pollinate the mountain flowers, has a distinctive taste and is used in both sweet and savory dishes. Additionally, it is believed to have medicinal properties.

• Seasonal Mushrooms

  Cercedilla is a privileged place for mushroom picking in season. The autumn rains bring a wide variety of mushrooms and fungi to the forests of the area, which are used in a wide range of dishes, from scrambled eggs to stews.

Sport Activities in Cercedilla

Hiking and Trekking

Cercedilla offers hiking and trekking routes for all levels. You can explore the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park, with routes like the Schmid Path, which will take you through wild pine and oak forests.

Climbing

The Sierra de Guadarrama is an ideal place for climbing. There are several climbing schools in the area that offer courses for beginners and advanced climbers.

Skiing

In winter, you can enjoy skiing at the Puerto de Navacerrada ski resort, which is located a few kilometers from Cercedilla.

Mountain Biking

The mountains of Cercedilla offer mountain biking routes for all levels. You can rent a bike and explore the trails on your own or join a guided tour.

Water Sports

In summer, you can enjoy water sports such as paddle surfing in the natural pools of Berceas, located in the Las Dehesas recreational area.

Places near Cercedilla

If you are in Cercedilla and wish to explore a bit more, here we present you with some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Navacerrada, a picturesque mountain village in Spain, is famous for its snowy landscapes, alpine skiing and hiking trails. Its local cuisine, with dishes such as roast lamb and Guadarrama beans, attracts food lovers.

Los Molinos, a charming village in Madrid, Spain, is famous for its traditional architecture, historic mills, and exquisite local cuisine, which includes dishes such as roast lamb and homemade desserts. Ideal for food and culture lovers.