Storm Kristin has left a white blanket of 15 centimetres in Los Molinos, a municipality in the Sierra de Guadarrama that has become the perfect destination for snow lovers. Less crowded than Navacerrada or Cercedilla, it can be reached by bus or train.
Storm Kristin has fulfilled its promise and has covered the Community of Madrid in white, but the wind and sun have erased the trace of snow in almost the entire region. However, there is a corner to the northwest of the capital where sledding and snowmen are the absolute stars of this weekend. This is Los Molinos, a municipality that, unlike its noisy neighbours Navacerrada or Cercedilla, has managed to preserve a blanket of 15 centimetres of practically untouched snow.
The key to this winter miracle has been the combination of Friday's precipitation and nighttime temperatures that plummet below 0 ºC, shielding the landscape for hikers. Being a less crowded destination, the snow does not turn to mud within a few hours. It is the perfect place for that snowball fight you had pending or to attempt the challenge of the biggest snowball of the season.
A white treasure at 1,046 metres above sea level
Los Molinos is located at 1,046 metres above sea level, which explains why temperatures remain below zero during the night. According to the Los Molinos Town Hall, forecasts indicate that the snow will last throughout the weekend, as long as daytime temperatures do not rise. Locals have already taken out their sleds, and the slopes near the town centre have become improvised sliding tracks.
Sharing borders with Guadarrama, this village offers safe slopes and spectacular views of the city without the endless queues of the usual mountain passes. For Madrileños looking to escape the noise, it is an ideal option: no traffic jams or crowds.
How to get there without dying in the attempt (or in the traffic jam)
The best part of this plan is that you can leave the car at home. If you decide to drive, it will take you just 40 minutes via the A-6, but public transport is the real smart option for this weekend. If you prefer the bus, you have two direct options that leave from the Intercambiador de Moncloa and drop you in the town centre in less than an hour: line 684 and line 688 run the route regularly, passing key points like Collado Villalba and Alpedrete before reaching your snowy destination.
For those who prefer the comfort of the train, the C8b Cercanías Renfe line is your ally. It departs from Chamartín station and crosses much of the mountains before leaving you just steps away from the white slopes. It is a relaxed way to travel, enjoying the changing landscape as you approach northwest Madrid without worrying about finding parking.
Where to refuel after the cold
Not everything is about throwing snowballs. Los Molinos has a gastronomic offer that surprises with its variety: nearly 20 restaurants await you with their fires lit. From the traditional Sierra steak or hearty dishes to warm you up, to more exotic options like Mexican or Asian cuisine. If you prefer something quick, local shops have everything you need for an improvised picnic in the snow.
The secret tip: look for the slope near the town centre to slide down with your sled; the views of the capital from there are simply out of this world. Don't miss the opportunity. Kristin's snow has limited hours, and this weekend is the last call to enjoy Madrid's winter before February's sun does its thing. Preparing the thermos, dressing warmly, and heading northwest is possibly the smartest decision you can make today.
