The lagoons of Velilla De San Antonio combine a landscape shaped by gravel extraction with opportunities for birdwatching and several route options. The cultural scene also has its own highlights, from traditional crafts to festivals with a long local history. This lets you decide how to balance nature, walks and culture according to what matters most to you on your trip.

Lagoons, Landscape and Birdlife

The lagoons formed through gravel extraction that reached the groundwater table; the excavated hollows subsequently filled with water. The lagoon area includes open water, marsh vegetation and riparian woodlands. The Lagunas de Miralrío stand out for their interesting plant and animal communities. The Laguna de El Sotillo y Soto Sur is considered the oldest lagoon. It covers approximately 12 hectares and is 2 to 3.5 metres deep. The Laguna del Picón de los Conejos is larger, at around 27 hectares, and lies in a bend of the Río Jarama.

At the Laguna de El Raso, there is an extensive, deep stretch of water where ducks, various diving ducks and great crested grebes can be spotted. More waterbirds can be found there in winter. If you are particularly interested in cormorants, look to the northern part of the lagoon area near the Laguna del Picón de los Conejos: especially in winter, the birds gather there at roosting sites. Communal roosts of the cattle egret colony, with hundreds of birds, occasionally form along the Miralrío Route; these sightings are seasonal and not guaranteed. Birdwatching and guided routes are activities for all ages.

Routes with Different Layouts

The documented lagoon routes begin at the Laguna de El Raso, the lagoon closest to the town centre, and follow its eastern side. The routes at the Lagunas de Miralrío start beside the wastewater treatment plant and the municipal cemetery. There are two options there: you can walk them independently as out-and-back routes or combine them into a circular route. The main differences are where the routes begin and how the Miralrío options can be combined.

A separate section of the former Tren de la Azucarera route is 1,500 metres long. It runs from the Laguna El Raso towards Mejorada del Campo, as far as the junction with the Camino del Sotillo. The section is open to pedestrians, cyclists and agricultural machinery, but not to other motor vehicles. Check local route conditions before setting out for a walk.

Local History and Cultural Sites

The historic Tren de la Azucarera transported sugar beet from the fields and properties along its route to the Azucarera de Madrid S.A. factory in the neighbouring town of La Poveda. The former Baños de Peralta survive as roadside ruins. The Iglesia de San Sebastián is one of the town’s few notable buildings.

At the Centro de Tapices, you can learn about the history of traditional tapestry weaving and discover traditional production methods. The Sala de Exposiciones Adolfo Suárez in the Antiguas Escuelas is a venue for art exhibitions and artistic creation. The Auditorio Municipal Mariana Pineda focuses on cultural gatherings and artistic activities in dance, music, theatre and film. This offers a distinct cultural focus alongside the landscape.

Festivals and When to Visit

The patron saint festival in honour of the Santísimo Cristo de la Paciencia, the patron saint of Velilla De San Antonio, takes place every year in late September. The celebration includes a procession through the town, with members of the brotherhood carrying the statue of Christ on their shoulders. The Día de la Tortilla is a local tradition held on Jueves Lardero, the Thursday before Lent. The Fiesta Solidaria de la Pitanza is a traditional event that brings together gastronomy and solidarity.

When planning your visit, you can weigh up your interests in nature and culture: more waterbirds are found at the Laguna de El Raso in winter, while the patron saint festival in late September is a recurring cultural event. The Día de la Tortilla takes place on Jueves Lardero. If you are planning a stay, these seasonal events can help you choose between birdwatching and festival traditions.

Discover more destinations: El Molar, El Boalo, Chinchon, Villanueva De La Cañada, Ajalvir, Ciempozuelos, Braojos, Aldea Del Fresno

For the main travel overview: Madrid.