Imagine stepping into a green oasis a stone’s throw from Madrid. This is the Dehesa de Navalcarbón. It is more than just a park. It’s a place where history and nature intertwine.
Dehesa de Navalcarbón is a lung of oxygen close to Madrid. It lies just over 20 km away. This natural space is full of pine trees and bushes. It features multiple paths. A lovely river flows here and recreational areas invite you to linger. With swings and picnic tables it’s an ideal place to walk. You can run or bike for a few hours. Or you can spend a beautiful day in the countryside.
Covering 120000 square meters the Dehesa de Navalcarbón belongs to Las Rozas. It is one of the closest sources of fresh air to Madrid. Numerous paths cross the Dehesa. People use them to run bike or simply stroll. You might spot open-air sculptures. These are modern petroglyphs that add an artistic touch to the landscape.
Back in the 1930s this area was created. The aim was to restore the old oak forest. Its wood had been used to make charcoal. That’s where the name Navalcarbón comes from. Later it was replanted with pine trees. These make it a delightful spot for weekenders. They often bring food to enjoy in the picnic area. There are tables a fountain and a playground for children.
The canal in the Dehesa de Navalcarbón is used for canoeing. It is part of the old Canal del Guadarrama. This project dates back to the late 18th century. King Carlos III wanted to connect the Guadarrama and Manzanares rivers. He also wanted to connect the Manzanares with the Tagus. This would have created a transport alternative via waterway.
Some kilometers of the canal were excavated. The Gasco dam was built. It lies between Galapagar Torrelodones and Las Rozas. You can still see it from Molino de la Hoz. But the dam cracked. After many issues the project was forgotten.
As you walk along the canal you can remember events of the Civil War. On both sides of the canal paths intertwine. This is a historic site. Along the fort route you’ll see bunkers. These remains are from the Republican line of defense.
Pine and holm oak forests are home to rabbits and pigeons. You may also see woodpeckers squirrels turtles crabs and ducks. These animals swim in the canal’s water. The canal’s origins lie in the time of Carlos III. It was designed by engineer Carlos de Lemaur.
In the Dehesa a metal plaque tells a brief history. The Navalcarbón canal was designed by Carlos Lemaur in 1781. This happened during the reign of Carlos III. The plan was to link the court with the Guadalquivir River in Seville. A navigable canal would do this. It would help transport grain from Castile. It would also help transport materials needed for the Americas.
The canal would get water from rivers and streams. The water would be channeled and leveled. Locks would overcome height differences. The canal’s first source was near the Gasco dam on the Guadarrama. The first phase was between Gasco and the court. This part would make the canal famous. It would allow materials for construction to be transported.
Work began in the winter of 1787 with only 100 men. By late spring the four leagues between the dam and Las Rozas were done. In March 1799 a storm caused a landslide. The dam was ruined. The most important hydraulic work of the 18th century was stopped.
Today the Dehesa de Navalcarbón offers a peaceful escape. It’s a place to connect with nature. It’s also a place to reflect on history. Whether you’re walking running or simply enjoying a picnic. The Dehesa offers a unique experience. A blend of natural beauty and historical significance awaits you in this special corner of Las Rozas.