If you’re planning a trip to Madrid and wondering if it’s near the water, the answer is yes and no. Madrid is located in the center of Spain, far from the coastlines. However, it’s not completely landlocked as there are several bodies of water nearby worth visiting.
Manzanares River
The Manzanares River is a small river that runs through Madrid. It’s not exactly a beach destination, but it does offer scenic views and recreational activities such as jogging or cycling along its banks. The river also has several parks nearby where you can have a picnic or just relax and enjoy the scenery.
Retiro Park Lake
Retiro Park is one of Madrid’s most popular parks with beautifully manicured gardens and a large lake at its center that offers boat rides. The lake is surrounded by trees and has plenty of benches around where you can sit back, relax, and take in the views.
Albufera de Valencia
If you’re looking for a proper beach day trip from Madrid, Albufera de Valencia is your best bet. This freshwater lagoon is about 350 km from Madrid but worth the drive for its stunning beaches with calm waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing. You can also take a boat ride through the lagoon’s canals to see local wildlife like flamingos.
Cuenca’s Natural Pools
Cuenca’s natural pools are located about 160 km from Madrid, but they are well worth the trip if you want to cool off during the hot summer months. These natural pools are formed by the Júcar River in Cuenca province and offer crystal clear waters surrounded by natural landscapes.
The Mediterranean Sea
While it may not be exactly near Madrid, since it’s located on Spain’s southeastern coast, the Mediterranean Sea is still worth a mention as it’s one of Spain’s most popular tourist destinations. The Mediterranean coastline is home to several beautiful beaches and picturesque towns like Barcelona, Valencia, and Alicante.
Conclusion
While Madrid may not be on the coast, there are still plenty of nearby bodies of water that you can visit to enjoy scenic views and recreational activities. From the Manzanares River to Albufera de Valencia and natural pools in Cuenca, there are options for everyone. And if you’re willing to take a longer drive, the Mediterranean Sea is always an option.