San I ldefonso de La Granja
The Royal Seat of La Granja is on the way to Segovia, just 20 minutes from El Caracol. It is a stunning Palace with beautiful gardens, and well worth stopping here for a wander.
King Philip V retired to La Granja in 1724, and in the following 20 years enlarged the gardens and the Palace, which thanks to the pure cool mountain air, was used as a Summer residence by all his successors down to King Alfonso XIII.
Abundant water flows from the mountains feeding a series of cascades, fountains and basins. The main cascade, of marble and coloured jasper, is a typically late baroque feature. The gardens are beautiful, and well worth a visit.
Opening Dates and Times: All Year Tuesday to Saturday: open 10am to 1.30pm and 3pm to 5.30pm Sundays and public holidays: open 10am to 2pm
Public Admission: Entrance free
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