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Riosequillo reopens this summer with the largest natural pool in Spain
When temperatures in Madrid start to climb above 35 degrees, finding shade and water stops being just a plan and becomes almost a necessity. This summer, one of the most anticipated getaways is back on the map: the Riosequillo recreation area in Buitrago de Lozoya reopens on 30 June with its huge natural pool next to the reservoir.
The site is just over an hour from the capital, in the heart of the Sierra Norte, at kilometre 74 of the A-1. Its main attraction remains a 4,500-square-metre body of water, considered the largest natural pool in Spain. There’s space for more than 2,300 people a day, though entry is controlled by capacity, so it’s best to arrive early on the hottest days.
The season will run from Tuesday to Sunday during the peak summer months. On weekdays, opening hours are 11:00 to 20:00. On Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays, hours are slightly extended, from 10:30 to 20:30, to make the most of the long July and August days.
Tickets are only sold at the box office and on a first-come, first-served basis. There’s no online sales, so on hot weekends the rule is clear: if you arrive late, you might miss out if capacity is reached. Indicative prices are 9 euros from Tuesday to Friday and 14 euros on weekends and public holidays, with discounts for children, seniors, people with disabilities, large families and groups. Children under three enter free.
Riosequillo isn’t just a big pool. The complex has grassy lawns, shaded areas, a separate children’s pool, sports spaces, showers, changing rooms, a bar and free parking. It’s the kind of place designed for a full day out, not just a quick swim.
Many visitors also take advantage of the proximity to Buitrago de Lozoya to combine a swim with a stroll around its walled enclosure. Your ticket allows you to leave and return during the day, which is handy if you want to eat out, explore the town or take a break before heading back to the water.
Driving is the easiest way to get there: just take the A-1 towards Burgos and exit near Buitrago. By public transport, the usual option is intercity buses from Plaza de Castilla to Buitrago de Lozoya, though from the town it’s still a 20 to 25 minute walk to the recreation area.
Riosequillo has been part of Madrid’s summer since 1993. For many families, groups of friends and residents of the north of the region, it’s not just an alternative to municipal pools: it’s a simple way to swap tarmac for mountains, cold water and a whole day away from the city’s harshest heat.
UPD: The official information for the season adds an important detail for planning your visit: although the site opens on weekdays from 11:00 to 20:00, the main pool will operate from 11:20 to 19:35 and the children’s pool from 12:00 to 19:00; on weekends and public holidays, the main pool will open from 10:45 to 20:00. Also, on the busiest days, 2,305 tickets will be sold in person at the box office, one for each person physically in the queue, and once capacity is reached, no further entry to the recreation area will be allowed for the rest of the day.