This is the closest beach to Madrid: it's less than two hours away and is perfect for relaxing this long weekend.

The heat continues to grip across Spain , and the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) continues to issue warnings of high temperatures. It predicts that the first 20 days of August will be the hottest on record in our country.

Extreme temperatures have been raging across the country for 11 days now, punishing the population with nighttime lows above 25 degrees and highs of 40 degrees or more in many parts of the country. While this is happening, ideas for combating the extreme heat are piling up. These include drinking fluids, mainly water, wearing light clothing, or staying in cool places.

And like every summer, whenever the heat hits, Madrid sounds like rock and that classic "There is no beach here." But nothing could be further from the truth. Despite the lack of a beach for obvious reasons, the region does have swamps, rivers, and natural pools that could very well resemble them. In fact, according to the Royal Spanish Academy (RAE), a beach is: "the shore of the sea or a large river, formed by sandy beaches on an almost flat surface."

Thus, after the etymological clarification, it is possible to understand that just an hour and a half by car from the capital, in the heart of the province of Guadalajara , there is a natural jewel perfect for a summer getaway and to relax this long weekend, August 15 , which coincides with the feast of the Assumption of the Virgin.

We're talking about an inland beach with crystal-clear waters, surrounded by pine forests, ideal for disconnecting from the heat of the big city. This hidden corner of the Iberian Peninsula's interior has become one of the most sought-after destinations for those looking to take a dip without having to travel hundreds of miles to reach the coast, whether the Mediterranean—the closest—the waters of the Cantabrian Sea, or the Atlantic Ocean.

Bolarque Beach is located in Almonacid de Zorita, in the heart of the province of Guadalajara. It's part of the famous Mar de Castilla , a network of reservoirs that allow visitors to enjoy a beach experience without leaving the center of the peninsula.

This is a well-maintained space perfectly designed for water activities, swimming in its waters, or strolling through the pine forests. It has all kinds of facilities : picnic areas, changing rooms, restrooms, a beach bar, a children's play area, and a yacht club that rents kayaks, pedal boats, and paddleboards.

Access is via the A-2 and CM-2009, to the Nueva Sierra de Altomira residential area, where there is an entrance control that records vehicle registration.

The cost during high season, from June 1st to September 8th, is €10 per adult , while children under 3 are admitted free. The area is open from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and capacity is limited to 800 people.

Pets are not allowed, and cash is recommended , as cell phone coverage is limited. It's also advisable to wear water shoes and protect yourself from the sun throughout the day.