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Southern Pond is Madrid’s secret oasis—a tranquil lake where sky and trees mirror each other in still water. Ducks glide by, kids fly kites along the shore, laughter floats on the breeze. Morning mist shimmers over silver ripples; evening sun sets the surface ablaze in gold. Not a photo spot—this is a place to pause, breathe, and reconnect with stillness.
Everything you need to know about Southern Pond
Near Southern Pond (Pond del Sud) in Madrid, Hotel Ritz Madrid is a top choice, located just a 10-minute walk from Retiro Park. Its luxurious rooms blend Spanish classical elegance with modern comfort, and some offer panoramic views of the surrounding greenery. The hotel features a world-class spa and a Michelin-starred restaurant, perfect for experiencing refined Madrid life.
Another excellent option is Casa de Campo Hotel, nestled within a serene natural reserve. It offers unique outdoor experiences such as lakeside strolls, picnic areas, and birdwatching—ideal for travelers seeking tranquility and connection with nature. Both hotels provide easy access to Madrid’s city center via metro.
The most convenient way to reach downtown Madrid from Southern Pond is via the metro. The nearest station is Lago (Line 10), which takes about 15 minutes to reach Plaza de Cibeles, a central hub where you can transfer to other lines heading to major attractions like the Royal Palace, Puerta del Sol, and Madrid Cathedral. Several bus routes also serve the area, offering flexible travel options. For a more comfortable journey, taxis or ride-sharing services are available, taking approximately 10–20 minutes depending on traffic.
Near Southern Pond, visitors can enjoy a variety of unique outdoor experiences. Take a morning jog or bike ride along the scenic trails of Retiro Park, surrounded by lush greenery. The lakeside picnic areas are perfect for family gatherings or relaxed afternoons. Summer brings open-air concerts and cultural markets that highlight Madrid’s vibrant arts scene. Nature enthusiasts can join guided birdwatching tours—this area is home to diverse waterfowl species. Some nearby hotels also offer paddleboat rentals, allowing guests to glide across the lake and enjoy peaceful views from the water.
Yes, hotels near Southern Pond are highly suitable for families. Hotel Ritz Madrid offers family-friendly amenities including a dedicated children’s pool, playroom, and spacious family suites, along with kid-oriented guided tours. Casa de Campo Hotel features expansive outdoor spaces with nature discovery zones and educational programs for children, encouraging learning through play. Both are close to Retiro Park, making it easy for parents to take kids biking, flying kites, or enjoying picnics. All properties provide safe indoor and outdoor lounging areas and 24-hour guest service, ensuring a stress-free family experience.
Holiday Inn Express Madrid-Archena Gate is a top choice located just a 10-minute walk from Southern Pond (Pozo Sur). This modern, budget-friendly hotel offers free parking, complimentary breakfast, and well-appointed rooms with soundproofing for a peaceful stay. Its prime location allows easy access to Madrid’s metro system, connecting you swiftly to major attractions like the Royal Palace, Puerta del Sol, and Retiro Park.
The surrounding area features lush green spaces such as Parque de la Granja and Madrid Botanical Garden, perfect for morning walks or weekend picnics. For dining, head to Gran Vía to savor authentic Spanish cuisine—think paella, tapas, and artisanal wines. The hotel also provides excellent connectivity to the Manzanares River Trail, ideal for cycling or leisurely strolls along the riverbank.
With its blend of urban convenience, natural serenity, and cultural accessibility, this property stands out as a smart base for exploring southern Madrid.
Walk north along the Manzanares River Trail (Camino del Manzanares) from Southern Pond, covering about 3 km in roughly 40 minutes. The scenic route passes through Parque de la Granja and the Madrid Botanical Garden, offering shaded pathways and peaceful views of local flora and fauna—ideal for early-morning or evening strolls.
After passing Church of San Lorenzo, turn onto Calle Casas de Rey to enter the historic Old Town Madrid district. For faster transit, take Metro Line 1 or Line 2 at Puerta de Alcalá Station, reaching Plaza de Cibeles in just 5 minutes. From there, transfer to other lines bound for Puerta del Sol or the Royal Palace.
Combining walking with public transport ensures both scenic immersion and efficient travel. Wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and plan your journey during cooler hours to avoid midday heat.
One standout experience near Southern Pond is the monthly Manzanares River Eco-Tour, led by local conservation groups. These guided walks focus on spotting rare birds such as the black kite and white egret, while learning about native plant species and the region’s wetland ecosystem. Early morning sessions include binoculars and field guides for immersive nature discovery.
A nearby bike rental station offers electric bicycles to ride along the Manzanares River Path, stretching through forests and farmland toward the ruins of Segovia’s ancient bridge. Scenic overlooks provide panoramic views of the pond and distant mountain ranges.
On Saturdays, the community hosts a Picnic Day where locals and visitors share traditional Spanish treats like jamón ibérico tapas and tomato-onion salad, fostering cultural exchange. These activities combine ecological education, active exploration, and local connection, making them unforgettable additions to any visit.
See what other travelers say about Southern Pond
This was my second stay at Abba Madrid Hotel, and I’m happy to confirm it lived up to my expectations. The location is excellent—just a short walk from the metro station, with a supermarket and several restaurants nearby, making everything super convenient. The room was spotlessly clean, and the staff were friendly and helpful throughout our visit. One small suggestion: if guests could access the gym using their room key directly instead of having to check in at the front desk, that would be a great improvement. But overall, the experience was fantastic—great value, comfortable accommodations, and a welcoming atmosphere. I’d definitely recommend this hotel and plan to return.
The Rafaelhoteles Atocha in Madrid is an absolute gem—excellent value for money and a standout choice for any traveler. The highlight has to be the panoramic rooftop terrace with breathtaking views; sipping coffee there at sunrise while watching the city come alive is pure magic. Carlos at reception was exceptional—friendly, attentive, and genuinely helpful, making our stay feel personal and welcoming. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable: everything major is within walking distance, and public transport is just steps away. The only minor issue we noticed was slow drainage in the bathroom sink, which occasionally caused water to pool. That said, it didn’t impact our experience much. Overall, this hotel delivers on comfort, service, and convenience—highly recommend for anyone visiting Madrid.
Staying at this hotel was an absolute delight! The room was spacious and very quiet, making it a perfect retreat after a busy day exploring Madrid. It’s just a short walk from the metro station, so getting into the city center is super quick and convenient. Whether you're heading out for dinner or shopping, everything is within easy reach. The location is ideal for both relaxation and sightseeing. I highly recommend this place for anyone visiting Madrid—it’s a great balance of comfort, convenience, and value.
Staying at One Shot Fortuny was an absolute delight! The location is incredibly convenient—just a short metro ride from the city center, with plenty of restaurants and shops within walking distance. I didn’t have to worry about getting around at all. The room was spacious and well-designed, offering great comfort with a cozy bed that made for a truly restful night’s sleep. The bathroom was modern, clean, and fully equipped with reliable hot water—perfect for relaxing in the morning. The staff were friendly, attentive, and always ready to help with any request. From check-in to checkout, everything felt seamless and personalized. It’s rare to find such a high level of service combined with excellent value. A perfect stay overall—definitely coming back!
The experience was extremely disappointing, especially the owner's treatment of guests. My mom was spoken to in a very rude and disrespectful manner, which was truly unacceptable. Additionally, the platform didn't clearly mention in the listing that only up to three people could use the pool at once—this restriction wasn't stated anywhere, so we were completely caught off guard upon arrival. The manager, Jose Núñez, was unpleasant and unprofessional throughout our stay. People like this shouldn’t be running a hospitality business. Overall, the service, communication, and overall vibe were far below expectations. I wouldn’t recommend this property to anyone, and it definitely doesn’t reflect good value for money.
Located just steps away from Las Ventas bullring, this ibis hotel is perfect for visitors planning to catch a corrida. The neighborhood is vibrant and well-connected—public transit is convenient, making it easy to explore central Madrid. The rooms are clean, modern, and surprisingly comfortable for the price. I was impressed by how well-maintained everything felt, from the bedding to the bathroom fixtures. Staff were friendly and helpful during check-in. It’s a great value option if you’re looking for a no-frills yet reliable stay in a prime location. Whether you're here for the bullfights or just exploring the city, this hotel delivers exactly what you’d expect from a solid mid-range chain—with a touch of local charm.
Staying at Apartamentos Recoletos was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—right next to the metro station, making it super easy to explore Madrid on foot or by public transit. I especially loved having a small kitchen in the apartment; it made preparing simple breakfasts like toast and coffee a breeze. No need to rush out for meals, which was perfect for saving time and money. The place is clean, well-maintained, and staff were friendly and helpful. For such a great location, comfort, and value, this is definitely a top pick if you're visiting Madrid.
Had an absolutely fantastic stay at this studio apartment! The place is modern, spotlessly clean, and thoughtfully equipped with everything we needed for a comfortable and relaxing trip. The pool was a real highlight—perfect for cooling off during Madrid’s hot summer days. Located just steps from the metro, getting around the city was super easy. The hosts were welcoming and helpful, making our experience even better. I’d definitely book here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Madrid.
We absolutely loved our stay at this apartment! It was a fantastic value for money, located just a short distance from all the vibrant action in Madrid without breaking the bank. The location is incredibly convenient—public transportation is right there, but we actually preferred taking taxis, especially during late-night outings. The apartment itself was spotless, well-maintained, and fully functional with everything we needed. We appreciated that groceries and restaurants were within walking distance, making it super easy to grab a bite or stock up on essentials. The space felt spacious and comfortable, perfect for a couple or small group. Overall, an excellent choice if you're looking for comfort, convenience, and great value in a central Madrid location. Definitely planning to come back!
The staff were exceptional—friendly, attentive, and always ready to help with any request. The hotel is easy to find and well-located just steps away from the metro, making it a breeze to explore Madrid. My room was clean, spacious, and thoughtfully designed with modern touches. Everything I needed was within reach, and the overall experience was top-notch. Highly recommend for travelers who value comfort and convenience.
Everything was perfect—the hostel was spotless, staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, and the overall atmosphere was warm and welcoming. The rooms were clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, with a nice balance of modern touches and cozy charm. I loved how central it was—just a short metro ride from the main attractions, and surrounded by great cafes, restaurants, and shops. It’s rare to find such a high standard of cleanliness and service at this price point. Definitely a top choice for budget travelers who don’t want to compromise on quality. I’ll be back for sure!
The Ilunion Pio XII hotel offers a clean, well-maintained environment and a solid breakfast selection—both are definitely highlights. That said, the location is quite far from the city center and main attractions. If you're only staying for one or two nights, it might be better to choose a place closer to the action. The good news? Bus line 150 stops right outside the hotel and goes directly to Puerta del Sol with no transfers, making public transit a convenient option. Just keep in mind that taxis in Madrid are extremely expensive—my ride from the hotel to the city center cost over €30, which isn’t ideal for short stays. Overall, this hotel works better for longer visits when you’re looking to save on transport costs and don’t mind a bit of distance. For travelers prioritizing convenience and budget, especially those planning to explore on foot or by bus, this place offers great value.
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