La Hoya Encavera, located in the municipality of Lozoya, is one of the most attractive enclaves of the Sierra Norte de Madrid to escape the asphalt and enjoy the summer in a natural and fresh environment. Located a short distance from the Pinilla dam, this area is characterized by its biodiversity, shady meadows and rocks, which make the landscape a special place to stroll and relax by the water on a hot summer day.
It should be noted that the river beach is not within the four bathing areas allowed within the Community of Madrid, although it is close to the Presillas, with which it shares the water of the Lozoya River.
Access is via the M-604 road, taking the detour signposted to the dam until you reach the recreational area, where there is a small paid parking area (usually 5 € in summer season).
As soon as you park, you can cross the iconic red pedestrian bridge and choose between two directions: to the right, you reach in a few minutes the Pinilla dam itself, where the roar of the falling water and the mountain landscape create a very special postcard; to the left, parallel to the course of the river, the path that leads to the historic Puente Congosto, an impressive work of stonework of still disputed origin – Roman or medieval hypotheses are considered for its construction – and that served centuries ago for the collection of fees and the passage of livestock.
Hiking routes through Hoya Encavera
The most common route runs from the Hoya Encavera recreational area to the Congosto Bridge, always following the banks of the Lozoya River. It is an easy trail, well marked and suitable for the whole family, including children and pets, according to information provided by hikers on Wikiloc.
In total, there are approximately 4.5 kilometers one way (9 km round trip), which can be done in just over an hour and a half at a leisurely pace, with the possibility of extending the excursion to the reservoir or making circular variants connecting with paths of the Lozoya Valley Natural Trail.
The route is very attractive, as it has meadows ideal for picnics, spontaneous bathing areas (although not included in the official list of authorized areas, visitors can get wet and cool off with caution), rapids and spectacular rock forms known as “marmitas de gigante”, the result of millennia of fluvial erosion.
The area is especially frequented by hikers and those seeking less crowded environments. Civility is key in this area: the tradition of nudism is rooted here, which is assumed naturally in the most remote sections, and it is common to find groups of friends, families or hikers sharing space without interference. The environment also welcomes herds of cows grazing freely, adding a rural and bucolic touch to the landscape.
For those who wish to continue discovering the environment of the valley, there are options for longer routes: for example, linking with the path that leads to the Matafrailes Bridge, or taking sections of the Lozoya Valley Nature Trail, which connects El Paular with Buitrago and allows tracing linear and circular routes through forests, historic mills and other medieval bridges in the area of Canencia that are even indicated on Google.