Content creator Pedro proposes a day trip to the Guadalajara region, with stops at Bolarque beach, Zorita de los Canes, the Sayatón viewpoint, and Pastrana. The route, just an hour and a half from the capital, combines swimming, history, and gastronomy.
Summer is in full swing, and the need for a refreshing plan is urgent. For those in Madrid who don't want to spend hours driving, content creator Pedro has shared a route that links four must-see stops in the province of Guadalajara, just 90 minutes from the capital. The itinerary promises to combat the heat with a swim in crystal-clear waters, discover a medieval castle, and end the day with a gastronomic stroll through one of the most beautiful towns in the region.
Bolarque Beach: the first dip
The first stop is Bolarque beach, an inland sandy area located next to the reservoir of the same name. The water, a vibrant turquoise on clear days, has become a magnet for those seeking a swim in nature. Pedro highlights that the place has “spectacular colour” and recommends it as the ideal spot to cool off before continuing the route.
Near the beach, a viewpoint offers a privileged panoramic view of the reservoir and the surrounding forest. It is the perfect spot for a photo and to catch your breath before the next stage.
Zorita de los Canes: medieval history by the Tagus
The route continues to Zorita de los Canes, a small municipality that preserves an important medieval legacy. Its main attraction is the castle, a fortress that was key during the Middle Ages in Castile. Pedro describes it as “a beautiful village with a lot of history” and encourages visitors to climb up to the fortress because, as he explains, from there you can see “great views” of the entire landscape surrounding the town.
The castle of Zorita, built on a hill, overlooks the valley of the Tagus River. The views from its towers encompass the Bolarque reservoir and the surrounding hills, a setting that transports visitors to another time.
Sayatón Viewpoint: a balcony over the region
The third stop is the Sayatón viewpoint, a natural balcony from which some of the best landscapes of the region can be seen. Surrounded by nature, this spot has become very popular among travellers exploring the area. Pedro describes it as a “very special place that you cannot miss,” and rightly so: the views stretch over the reservoirs and mountains of Guadalajara in a seemingly endless horizon.
It is an ideal point to stop, breathe fresh air, and capture one of the most iconic images of the route. The viewpoint is equipped with a wooden railing that allows for safe leaning over the edge.
Pastrana: the perfect ending with gastronomy
The journey ends in Pastrana, considered one of the most beautiful towns in Guadalajara. Here, travellers can stroll through its cobbled streets, admire the Plaza de la Hora and the Ducal Palace, and enjoy the excellent local cuisine. Pedro recommends ending the day with a good meal at one of its restaurants, where traditional dishes from the area – such as roasted lamb or migas – take centre stage.
Pastrana also has a rich historical heritage: it was the residence of the Princess of Éboli and retains a stately atmosphere that invites visitors to get lost among its corners. For those from Madrid, it is the perfect finishing touch to a getaway that offers swimming, history, nature, and good food all in one day.
The route, devised by content creator Pedro, can be done by car and requires minimal travel between stops. However, it is advisable to get an early start to make the most of the day, and if the heat is intense, don't forget your swimsuit. Because, as the saying goes, the early bird gets the swim.

