Madrid Río

Without a doubt, Madrid Río is one of the places where the people of Madrid go every day to do sports: ride a bike, run, skate or walk. The great length of the route (when finished it will be 10 kilometers long) makes it ideal for the number of paths: you can go on a different one every time.

It is also very nice to relax in front of the fountains that are next to Segovia bridge, where you can have the best panorama since you can see the Royal Palace and the Almudena Cathedral. There are now a great number of bridges, allowing one to cross from one side of the river to the other, like the famous Cáscaras or Gemelos, where there are pictures of citizens, recreated with mosaic stones.

I must admit Madrid has another face now. It is true that we the people of Madrid had to stand some years of building works, but the result is spectacular. A good example is the area of Madrid Río, completely renovated. And a must, as much if you are a traveler passing by in the capital as if you are a local.

It is a perfect area to have a walk (alone or with someone) or to practice sports (running, biking...). The walk starts in Puente de los Franceses (Bridge of the French) and is a few kilometers long until the area of El Matadero.

It was a good surprise to me. I biked on a route and it was the best one I did recently. You have to realize it was one of the hottest days in the capital of Spain (the little fountains every few meters are thus a good idea).

I went walking on the new garden of the so-called Linear Park of the Manzanares and I was surprised by this new spot in Madrid. The park has spaces dedicated to children and it is very nice to see that all games and swings are made of natural materials... from a family of wooden pigs to rope swings, everything has been thought for the environment. We can also hire some small electric cars to drive on the banks, which are adapted for biking, running or walking. There are some privileged views with the Almudena Cathedral and the Royal Palace.

Madrid Río is the last mammoth work done by the Mayor of Madrid, Alberto Ruiz Gallardón. We got in debt up to our neck because of him, but since I live just in front of Madrid Río I will always be grateful. From a horrible M-30 (his controversial project of road) full of cars, smoke and noise, we went to an over 6 kilometers path full of gardens, bridges, fountains, games and walks for everyone in Madrid.

Great park in the center of Madrid. It is located next to the Manzanares river and has many areas for children. Really delightful. We went biking there and had a great morning. There are many games.

Who said you could not enjoy summer in Madrid? Well, you have to come to the capital to see the new park they have made along the entire bank of the Manzanares... including an urban beach.