Patones – Las Calerizas Circular

Jim Arymar

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The walk begins at Patones Abajo, from where we climb steadily up the well-marked path to the lovely village of Patones Arriba, passing many display boards with a great deal of interesting information about the history of water supply from the region, as well as the local flora and fauna.

The village of Patones Arriba is a delight. It has much interest and a cultural centre (CITECO) which contains an excellent display tracing the history of the region. There are many charming cafes and restaurants - Patones Arriba is very busy at weekends.

From the village we climb out into open country and head generally north-east through rolling countryside, following the course of the canal Isabel II, the chain of enormous siphon tubes that are part of the water supply to Madrid. During this phase of the hike and depending on their location, we could pass close to many commercial beehives; care is needed between March and May.

Later we descend to cross the M134 road and continue with the option to visit the now defunct dam Presa del Ponton de la Oliva, passing the caves at Cueva del Reguerillo, which stretch underground through passages and caves for many kilometres; and the ruined Hermitage de la Virgen de la Oliva.

Later we return directly to Patones Abajo along the course of the now unused Lozoya Canal, which used to irrigate the local farmland.

Spain - Central Spain - Madrid - Sierra de Guadarrama

Features

Birds, Flowers, Great Views, Hills or Fells, Lake/Loch, Museum
6/29/2022 - Jim Arymar

I was delighted to have had the opportunity to walk this one again in May 2022. The map, track and way mark locations have been updated and corrected where necessary and the hike remains an interesting, varied and panoramic one - highly recommended. Jim Arymar.