Cerro Alarcón reservoir, embalse en la Comunidad de Madrid
Cerro Alarcón is a water reservoir in Navalagamella built in 1970 on the Perales river. The curved concrete dam measures approximately 132 meters long and 22 meters high, holding back water across an area of about 25 hectares. A walking trail of roughly 9.55 kilometers circles the water, passing through almond tree rows and oak woodlands. Along the route visitors encounter historical structures, including a Civil War-era blockhouse, and can reach several points of interest like old mills and a noted oak tree.
The dam was built in 1970 by engineers A. San Feliz and J. M. Peironcelly to provide recreational water sports facilities for the local area. During the 1970s the site became a center for water sports competitions, hosting a European championship in skiing. A blockhaus structure remaining near the trail dates from the Spanish Civil War period, reflecting an earlier phase of the region's history.
The reservoir's name comes from the nearby Cerro Alarcón hill. Locals and visitors use this place as a gathering spot for outdoor recreation and quiet moments in nature. It serves as a calm retreat where people can observe wildlife and enjoy simple activities by the water.
The walking trail can become muddy when wet, so waterproof shoes are recommended especially after rain. The route takes about two and a half hours at a calm pace and is suitable for most walkers, though some sections along the shore may present challenges.
The blockhaus structure at the start of the route is a leftover from the Spanish Civil War, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the region's complex past. This historical remnant sits just steps away from a modern water sports center, creating an unexpected contrast between two different eras in the same location.
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