The Mediterranean is fine, but in the summer months the overcrowding has become unbearable. For this reason, many Madrid residents prefer to go inland and have found their refuge from the heat and without tourists in this rural town of Ciudad Real. This is Ruidera, a small town of 529 inhabitants surrounded by waterfalls and natural pools.
What to see and do in Ruidera, Ciudad Real
Ruidera is a very small town, with a historic center of charming whitewashed houses. On a walk through its alleys you will come across the Santa María de la Blanca church, with a carving of the virgin from the 15th century; or the King's House, a noble mansion from the 18th century. However, the most notable thing about Ruidera is not in its urban area, but in its surroundings: the Lagunas de Ruidera Natural Park.
This protected natural area is made up of 15 lakes, connected to each other by waterfalls and waterfalls. Beautiful natural beaches form around it where visitors can take a dip and do water sports, such as kayaking or canoeing. Laguna del Rey, Laguna de San Pedro or Laguna Colgada are just some of the best known, with an emerald color that hypnotizes.
For many Madrid residents, these lakes have become an alternative to coastal beaches. For this reason, Ruidera is a perfect weekend getaway, allowing you to combat the high temperatures with just a two-hour drive.
Where to eat cheap and delicious in Ruidera, Ciudad Real
Like a good Castilian town, the gastronomy is marked by Manchego ratatouille, garlic soup and rabbit, partridge and pork meats. You can eat it in the most traditional way at Mesón de Juan, the best restaurant in the entire town.
What to do around Ruidera, Ciudad Real
The water is not its only attraction, its hiking and cycling routes are also beautiful. The surroundings of the lagoons are full of oak, juniper and juniper forests, home to many birds and the famous Montesinos cave, which appears in 'Don Quixote de la Mancha'. In addition, we can also see the medieval castles of Peñarroya and Rochafrida, both of Muslim origin.
In Motorpasión | Fonsi Nieto, 47 years old: “My daily life is simple. I get up early, go to the gym and go to the beach. If the weather is good, I take the boat and sail to Formentera.”
In Xataka | We thought that the 28 °C of the Mediterranean was wonderful for bathing. But the heat accumulated in August is paid for in September.
