Breathing history in the mountains of Sierra Norte
Just an hour and a half drive from the bustling metropolis, and you find yourself in a completely different dimension, amid the oak and birch groves of Sierra Norte de Madrid. This is one of the region’s most picturesque yet still undiscovered tourist destinations. In autumn, the landscapes look as if they came straight from a postcard: golden leaves, winding paths along streams, and crisp, cool air that invites a leisurely walk. This area, designated a biosphere reserve, has become a true refuge for those seeking solitude and a chance to lose themselves in the serenity of woodland scenery. Centuries of isolation allowed the region to retain its pristine rural authenticity, which still defines its character today. Stone houses cluster along narrow streets that lead out to vegetable gardens, meadows, and orchards, where every stone breathes history. The first villages appeared here after the Reconquista, and, thanks to independence from other municipalities, the area eventually gained its own set of laws and even a royal livestock trail. This deep respect for the past is felt in the ethnological museum and the old flour mill—testimonies of a life closely tied to the land and traditional crafts. Only at the very end of the journey does the traveler learn the name of this treasure hidden in the mountains of Sierra del Rincón—La Hiruela.
Trails for contemplation and a fairytale forest
For those who enjoy hiking without extreme challenges, La Hiruela offers several accessible and incredibly beautiful routes. One of the most popular is the path “From the Barnyards to the Irrigation Post,” which guides you along ancient agricultural trails and treats you to panoramic views of the valley from various viewpoints in just a couple of hours. Equally notable is the “From Mill to Mill” route, which follows the banks of the Jarama River. This trail gives visitors the chance to explore traditional watermills hidden among willows, poplars, and ash trees. If you prefer shorter distances, there’s the “To the Village Spring” path—a true natural tunnel formed by birches, cherry trees, and wild apple trees, offering travelers an unforgettable display of vibrant colors each autumn. Just a twenty-minute drive away lies another regional gem that attracts many tourists: the Montejo beech forest, one of the southernmost in Europe. Its centuries-old trees, turning gold and copper each autumn, create a truly magical atmosphere where it’s easy to lose track of time. The unique microclimate of this area has allowed species typical for northern Spain to thrive in the very heart of the Madrid region, making this forest a natural enclave of immense value.
The taste of autumn and the magic of the moment
A trip to La Hiruela would be incomplete without sampling the local cuisine. Culinary traditions are carefully preserved here: artisan honey, wild game stews, seasonal mushrooms, and vegetables straight from the garden. Casa Aldaba restaurant, set in an old stone mansion with a fireplace, offers the same warm hospitality found throughout the village. Its menu is based on seasonal ingredients with a creative touch, including hearty soups and homemade desserts — perfect for recharging after a long walk. With the arrival of autumn, La Hiruela becomes one of the best destinations in the Comunidad de Madrid for those seeking a refuge in nature. The paths are carpeted with leaves, the air smells of damp earth, and the mountains are painted in warm tones. It’s the perfect time of year when the very landscape invites you to pause, take a deep breath, and enjoy the silence. This is a secluded corner where every step, every bite, and every sunset feels like a true gift for the senses.
