If you are thinking of making different plans with your children and you like nature, stop looking, because we have found a magical place for the whole family. It is also very close to Madrid, you can go and come back in the same day. It is The Enchanted Forest. A botanical garden where you can stroll among more than 500 different species of vegetation. You'll be amazed by its plant sculptures, paths, labyrinths, waterfalls and gardens. Don't forget your camera because you won't stop taking photos of yourself in every corner.
Do you feel like getting lost in the middle of nature?
How to get to the Enchanted Forest
El Bosque Encantado is located in the western mountain range of Madrid, in the municipality of San Martín de Valdeiglesias, about 75 km from Madrid. The easiest way to get there is by car. You have to take the M-501, known as the road of the marshes. When you arrive in San Martín de Valdeiglesias, you will see the first signs to the Enchanted Forest, on the Camino de Marañones 217.. You can leave your car in a large esplanade, which has been fitted out as a car park, in front of the Garden., which is free of charge.
You can also get there by public transport. From Madrid's Príncipe Pío station, bus line 551 will take you to the village of San Martín, but it will still be a kilometre's walk to the Park.
Timetable
It is open all year round, from Thursday to Sunday, including long weekends and public holidays. They open at 10.30 a.m.. Closure depends on the time of year.
In summer: closes at 21.00 hours
In spring and autumnclosing time: 8.30 p.m.
And in winter: closes at 18.00 hours
Prices
Adults: 12 €
Children and the over 65s: 8 €
Reduced rate: Unemployed, disabled, large families and Youth Card 9€.
4 Seasons Card: allows you to visit the Enchanted Forest all year round 29 € 29 € 29.00
Other information of interest
You have two dining options. You can bring your own food and water and sit in the picnic areas set up in the park. There is also a microwave service. There is also a bar where you can eat, but it is only open from mid-March to November.
If you have a pet and you want to take it with you, you can do so as long as it is leashed and muzzled, if it is one of those classified as a dangerous breed.
Group visits are available. If there are more than 18 people, there is a special price of €8. For groups of 80 or more, the price is €6.
They also organise special activities for schools. For both primary and secondary school pupils.
For any information or questions about the Park there is a telephone number from 9.00 am to 3.00 pm: 608 745400
A Garden full of surprises
This magical space will surprise you with every step you take. The scent of aromatic plants will accompany you on your walk through this garden full of natural waterfalls from the Sierra Madrileña mountain range. Its labyrinths will lead you through a whole host of routes, each one more surprising than the last, where you will be able to contemplate more than 300 sculptures made of vegetation. We suggest you follow this itinerary.
Routes to discover the Enchanted Forest
At the entrance you will be greeted by none other than Don Quixote and Sancho, one of the most photographed corners of the Park. From here you can follow several different routes that will lead you to discover magical stories in the form of figures.
Prehistoric Route
Dinosaurs millions of years old in the middle of this fantastic space.
Forest Dwellers Route
These are the sculptures related to the Enchanted Forest and the people who live in it. Which one do you choose?
Cactus Route
You will be amazed by this corner full of these curious plants native to the desert.
Jungle Route
Can you imagine a jungle in the middle of this Madrid forest? Watch out because you will find elephants, lions and giraffes.
Aroma Route
Close your eyes and let yourself be carried away by the scent of its plants - you won't want to leave!
History Route
A short journey through history in capital letters.
Storytelling Route
Perhaps the favourite of children and adults alike. Here we find the main characters of the most famous fairy tales that we have all read at some time.
Mythology Route
If you are a fan of mythology, you will be stunned by this section of the Forest. Take the opportunity to take photos and immortalise the moment.
Water Dwellers' Route
Seals, penguins and other marine animals will suddenly appear in our path.
Bird Route
And from the sea to the sky. Because here you will find sculptures of birds such as swans and golden eagles.
Route of Inventions
We arrive at a peculiar route inside the Forest where we will learn about the most important inventions throughout history.
Route of the Friends of Man
Here we will be accompanied by the domestic animals that we are used to seeing every day and that we love.
Route of the Arts
Get your camera out because you can't leave without taking a snapshot of yourself next to these original green Beatles sculptures, didn't you expect that?
Other charming spots in the Enchanted Forest
We have already seen that there are many different paths to follow in this area. But there are also small corners where we can stop and contemplate them in peace and quiet: waterfalls, streams, viewpoints or even a labyrinth.
Enchanted stream
Its name says it all: refresh yourself in its waters! You will appreciate it, especially in the hottest months.
Barbellido waterfall
This is the source of the Las Casetas stream. It has the peculiarity that it only carries water between December and June.
The Secret Corner
Find out what this peculiar corner hides!
Town Viewpoint
From here you can enjoy wonderful views of the village of San Martín de Valdeiglesias.
Budha Waterfall
Magic corner with a Buddha statue
Cascada de los Enamorados
A wonderful waterfall that is a must-see.
Bonsai Mountain
Its full name is also Nymph Universe. Maybe if you look closely you can see one among the dwarf saplings.
The Magic Maze
Come in and play at getting lost, see how long it takes you to get out.
The visit to this botanical park usually takes between two and three hours, depending on whether you are going with very young children or not. But you can enjoy your tour for as long as you like, even the whole day.
For any information or questions about the Park there is a telephone number from 9.00 am to 3.00 pm: 608 745400
You can see more activities in our section with children in Madrid
