MADRID “UP THE RIVER WITHOUT A PADDLE” – 12 KM

Description

Running alongside the river Manzanares in Madrid is a roadrunner’s dream – a flat well maintained surface of tar with distance markings that extend for many km’s – and all of this besides a river with a number of points of interest along the way.

We’ll meet at “Km Zero” in Puerta del Sol which is probably one of the most popular meeting spots in Madrid. It is also marks the point from which all the National roads in Spain are measured. We’ll head West up Calle (Street) Mayor passing Plaza Mayor and Mercado San Miguel on our left. We’ll then turn right into Calle Bailen and pass the Cathedral Almudena and the Royal Palace on our way. From there we’ll head down to the river via the Puerta de San Vicente, and do a loop around the lake at the famous Casa de Campo Park, where you may even see a game of Kayak Polo in progress. From there we’ll head along the river in a South Easterly direction. On the way we’ll pass a number of obstacle courses should you wish to test your skills on these. We’ll also pass a number of points of interest including the site where the Atletico Madrid football stadium used to be (the stadium was recently demolished), Puente de Segovia, and Puente de Toledo. After a really nice stretch along the river we’ll turn around at the famous Matadero (old slaughterhouse), which has now been converted into an arts centre where many different events take place throughout the year. Most definitely a run not to be missed if you’re looking for a reason  just to simply get out on the road for some fresh air and some incredible sightrunning in this beautiful part of Madrid.