A quaint stone-clad town in the Sierra de Guadarrama foothills, Alpedrete offers a peaceful respite from downtown Madrid in just 30 minutes.

Alpedrete, a charming stone-clad town nestled in the Sierra de Guadarrama foothills, provides a tranquil escape just 30 minutes away from bustling Madrid. Ideal for travelers seeking a glimpse of the Spanish countryside, Alpedrete boasts a rich quarrying history, with its stone even used in the construction of the renowned Palacio Real de Madrid. Visitors can explore the remnants of a 19th-century abandoned “castle” amidst the stone ruins, offering a unique glimpse into the town’s past.

The leisurely 3-mile (4.8 km) walk through Alpedrete allows ample time to visit various sites and enjoy local restaurants, including the coach bus ride to and from the town. Plan for approximately four hours to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Upon booking, detailed maps and step-by-step instructions will be provided for a seamless journey.

Highlights of the excursion include delving into Alpedrete’s stony heritage by wandering its historic buildings, plazas, and picturesque stone-lined streets. Discover a forgotten quarry and explore the ruins of the abandoned “castle,” once visited by a Spanish king. Treat your taste buds to a hearty serving of cocido montañés (mountain stew) and indulge in sweet delights from a local bakery.

Before embarking on this adventure, keep in mind that the duration is around 4 hours and is recommended for individuals aged 10 years and above. The experience is self-guided, allowing visitors the freedom to explore at their own pace.

Upon arrival, kickstart your day with a traditional Spanish breakfast at a local café before setting off to explore Alpedrete. Wander through the town’s charming streets, visit significant landmarks like the Monumento a la Piedra, and learn about the town’s stonemasonry legacy at a small museum. Ascend to the northwest of town to discover a forgotten quarry and the captivating ruins of the abandoned manor, known as the “castle.” Conclude your journey with a delicious meal at a cozy restaurant, savoring a bowl of cocido montañés before indulging in sweet treats from a local bakery for the return trip to Madrid.

Please note that this is a self-guided experience, and tickets and transportation are not included. Prepare for a day of exploration, history, and culinary delights in the quaint town of Alpedrete.

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