The Community of Madrid has only four areas where bathing is allowed within its marshes and rivers. Some of these beaches are as well known as the Virgen de la Nueva in the reservoir of San Juan, which revalidates its blue flag every year, but one of the least crowded is the beach of Estremera.
The Tagus borders the south of Madrid, passing through such important cities as Aranjuez, but it only has one beach for the enjoyment of bathers: Los Villares in Estremera. This is a bathing area rather than a beach as such, because it does not exactly match the image of a coastal beach. It is more rugged and you also have to reckon with the current of the river.
There are trees where you can lie down in the shade, but in the summer season there are usually more people and it is advisable to bring an umbrella. Dogs are allowed, although they must be leashed. To complete the beach atmosphere, there is a kiosk that is usually open during the bathing season.
Although there is no special surveillance, this inland beach also has dates when bathing is allowed. The official bathing season starts on May 15 and lasts until September 15.
What to see in Estremera
This village in the southeast of the Community, 80 km from the center, is crossed by the river, creating a plain surrounded by green that contrasts with the golden colors of the territory. During the 50’s a dam was built that formed the reservoir and changed the landscape with irrigated crops.
In addition to a swim in Los Villares, Estremera has several points of interest perfect for a summer weekend getaway. Its Town Hall, which is now the seat of the Town Hall, dates from the 16th century, although in 1980 it was rebuilt and only the most important part remains intact: the arcade of Renaissance columns that hold the hallway open to the Plaza Mayor.
There are also surviving manor houses from different moments of splendor of the town. As with the Camacho house with a Renaissance façade and wrought iron balconies that belonged to the Dukes of Infantado and other manor houses of the nineteenth century.