The Community of Madrid has initiated a special surveillance campaign to deter swimming in protected areas of the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park. The primary objective is to ensure visitor safety and protect the flora and fauna of these valuable natural spaces during the summer season.
Controls will focus on areas with the highest public attendance, including the well-known pools of La Pedriza. Throughout the summer, patrols comprising forest rangers, the Guardia Civil, and local police will monitor these locations to enforce current regulations.
During the initial weeks, actions will be primarily informative. However, as the summer progresses, individuals found swimming in unauthorized places will be fined. Last year, forest rangers issued 20 such citations, with penalties ranging from 300 to 3,000 euros.
The prohibition applies to the stretch of the Manzanares river from its source at the Ventisquero de la Condesa to its mouth at the Santillana reservoir, within the municipality of Manzanares El Real. This measure aims to protect the environment, promote ecological restoration, and conserve the natural values of the upper river course.
The Community of Madrid reminds the public that swimming is permitted only in five designated natural areas: Las Presillas (Rascafría), Los Villares (Estremera), Playa del Alberche (Aldea del Fresno), and the areas of El Muro and Virgen de la Nueva (both in San Martín de Valdeiglesias).
In addition to potential financial penalties, authorities warn of the serious health and safety risks associated with swimming in unauthorized locations. These dangers include drowning, injuries, cuts, sunstroke, burns, and contact with pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites present in the water.
The beaches of El Muro and Virgen de la Nueva will have a daily health surveillance team from June 24 to September 10. This team, composed of personnel from SUMMA and the Red Cross, will receive reinforcements on weekends to ensure the safety of swimmers.
