If you’re in Madrid and craving a day at the beach, you might be wondering just how far it is to the nearest coastline. The answer, unfortunately, is that it’s not exactly a quick trip.
Madrid is located smack in the middle of Spain, far from any oceanfront. However, with some planning and effort, you can still make it to the beach for a refreshing dip or some sunbathing.
How Far Is It?
The distance between Madrid and the nearest beach varies depending on which beach you choose to visit. The closest beaches to Madrid are located on the east coast of Spain, along the Mediterranean Sea. The cities of Valencia and Alicante are both popular destinations for Madrileños looking for a seaside escape.
Valencia
Valencia is approximately 355 kilometers (220 miles) away from Madrid. While this may seem like a long journey, it’s possible to make the trip in around three hours by car or train. Valencia boasts long stretches of sandy beaches and warm turquoise waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Alicante
Alicante is located approximately 430 kilometers (267 miles) south of Madrid. It takes around four hours to get there by car or train.
Like Valencia, Alicante has plenty of beautiful beaches to choose from. One popular option is San Juan Beach, which offers crystal-clear water and white sand.
Other Options
If you’re not up for making a long journey to reach the beach, there are other options available closer to home. While they may not be oceanfront beaches, there are several natural swimming pools located within driving distance of Madrid that offer a refreshing dip on a hot day.
Piscinas Naturales de Rascafría
Located just over an hour’s drive north of Madrid, the Piscinas Naturales de Rascafría are a series of natural swimming pools set in a picturesque mountain setting. The water is cool and clear, making it the perfect spot to escape the heat of the city.
Piscinas de Riosequillo
The Piscinas de Riosequillo are another option located within driving distance of Madrid. Located approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles) north of the city, this complex features several large swimming pools surrounded by lush greenery.
Conclusion
While Madrid may not be located directly on the coast, there are still plenty of options available for those looking to enjoy a day at the beach or a refreshing swim. Whether you’re willing to make the trip to Valencia or Alicante or prefer to stick closer to home with a visit to one of the natural swimming pools in the area, there’s no shortage of ways to cool off and beat the summer heat.