Faced with the feeling that Madrid has only one side to it, along with the routine of nightlife and constant screen time, Richie and Marta have launched The Altara, a community designed to help people meet one another through outdoor activities. The project was born in response to a social environment they consider increasingly individualistic, with the goal of restoring personal connection and creating a safe space where participants can be themselves.
Alternatives to traditional leisure activities
The founders point out in an interview with Madrid Secreto that, despite the capital’s wide range of options, residents often end up resorting to the same party-related activities. The Altara proposes changing this approach to seek the calm and peace that are sometimes lacking in the urban environment. Taking advantage of the region’s natural surroundings, the group organizes hiking trails and climbing excursions in the Sierra de Guadarrama.
In addition to mountain outings, the initiative also includes accessible activities within the city itself for those who cannot travel far. One example is yoga classes held on the grass in green spaces like Madrid Río, making it easier for those seeking to unwind without leaving the city center to participate.
From Activity to Community
Although the organizers acknowledge that the first few minutes of each gathering can be nerve-wracking when bringing together people who don’t know each other at all, the natural setting facilitates integration and quickly breaks the ice. To streamline logistics and stay in touch, messaging groups are created for each event.
The dynamic has shown that, once the activity is over, participants continue to interact within the groups, sharing photos and organizing new get-togethers on their own. To participate in upcoming outings, those interested can check the published plans and register using the form available on the project’s social media profiles.