Looking for aquatic refuges in which to refresh oneself is part of Madrid’s summer. Within the natural pools and inland beaches, there are only two officially authorized bathing areas in the entire Community of Madrid, and both are located in the municipality of San Martín de Valdeiglesias: El Muro beach and Virgen de la Nueva beach, located in the San Juan reservoir.
The Virgen de la Nueva beach is the best known and the first in Madrid to receive the Blue Flag distinction, year after year, which guarantees the quality of the water and services. It has lifeguards, beach bars, shaded areas, showers, toilets and parking. Its environment of pine forests and calm waters makes it one of the favorite destinations in the region during the summer.
El Muro beach, also on the San Juan reservoir, is another perfect option for a safe and legal swim. It has surveillance, picnic areas, canoe and paddle surf rentals, and a quieter, greener and generally less crowded environment.
Both beaches are subject to periodic sanitary controls and have cleaning and surveillance services during the bathing season, which runs from May 15 to September 15.
Fines for bathing in unauthorized marshes and rivers in Madrid
While the Alberche and the San Juan fill up every summer, bathing in marshes and rivers in the Community of Madrid outside the authorized areas can result in a fine of between 80 and 3,000 euros. The regulations prohibit bathing in most reservoirs, rivers and lakes, except in four authorized and controlled areas: Las Presillas (Rascafría), Los Villares (Estremera), El Muro and Virgen de la Nueva (San Juan), and the Alberche beach (Aldea del Fresno).
The objective is to protect the environment and safety, since these spaces lack surveillance and can be dangerous. In places such as La Pedriza or El Berrueco alone, hundreds of sanctions are processed every summer. To avoid risks and sanctions, the best option is to go to permitted areas, such as the natural swimming pool of Riosequillo, which is open from June 24 to August 31 and offers full services and family activities.