Spring continues to transform Madrid, and this time it’s not about cherry blossoms or tulips reminiscent of Holland. Throughout April and May, the flowering of the common rockrose covers the Guadarrama Mountains in a blanket of yellow, thanks to the color of its butterfly-shaped flowers.
The best place to enjoy this scenery is Los Molinos, a town located about 45 minutes from Madrid that has created its own festival to celebrate the local landscape. From April 18 to May 17, “Los Molinos en amarillo”combines nature, culture, sports, and cuisine with a packed schedule.
Guided tours, night tours, and horseback rides
To immerse yourself in the natural surroundings of Los Molinos, there are plenty of hiking trails . Both the town hall and theSierra del Guadarrama Reservation Center organize several popular outings, both during the day and at night.
All of these are guided tours, and the undisputed star is the cambroño, a shrub that was once used to start fires, as a broom, and even as an emetic in medicine. In fact, the French botanist Lamarck called it the “Spanish broom” due to its similarity to these yellow flowers.
The routes can be explored on foot, by bicycle, and even on horseback. Additionally, other outdoor activities are organized, such as ceramic painting workshops, light aircraft flights, volleyball tournaments, and concerts.
From the 80s to Coldplay
Of course, music will also be a highlight of this festival, kicking off next Saturday, April 18, with a Coldplay tribute by the Dalí quartet in Los Molinos’ Plaza de España at 6:30 p.m.
The highlight of the cambroño season will be Saturday, April 25, which will begin with Nordic walking, promoting outdoor physical activity, and will continue with music from the ’80s and ’90s and a night full of performances and DJ sets at various venues in Los Molinos.
Throughout the month of May, the cambroño will retain its yellow color, and more events will be held, such as a craft beer fair, a motorcycle rally, and a chito-throwing contest.
How to get to Los Molinos
By car, the most direct route is via the A-6, connecting to the M-614, whichleads directly to Los Molinos in about 45 minutes.
When using public transportation, the journey is a bit longer and can be made via the C-8 commuter train line to Los Molinos-Guadarrama or by taking bus 684, which departs from the Moncloa transit hub.
