Summer in the Madrid sierra: tennis, beer and the social club

Tennis, beer and the social club: summer in the sierra near Madrid
July in the sierra near Madrid. The sun hides behind the mountain at around seven in the evening, the tennis court falls into shadow and the temperature still invites exercise. A match against a worthy opponent, then a shower and off to the social club terrace for an ice-cold Paulaner – from a glass, of course, and no corn syrup – while the rallies are relived. The plan is rounded off with a swim in the pool before or after the match. That's how some residents of the Los Berrocales estate, in Alpedrete, describe the summer ritual they consider out of reach for their neighbours.

The formula seems simple, but it hides a lifestyle only a few can afford: a house with a tennis or padel court, a social club with terrace and pool, and free time to enjoy it all on weekdays. The estate, nestled in the northwest sierra, is known for its tree-lined streets and spacious plots. Classic cars are a common sight on weekends; in fact, there is a meet in Navacerrada on the first Sunday of every month.

However, not everything is praise. Living next to the tennis court can become a sonic hell, according to another opinion. From early morning, the shots and shouts of the players – whom they call "pacos" – disturb the peace. The noise, added to the murmur of the social club, creates friction between those seeking calm and those wanting to make the most of summer. There are also those who prefer the pool: while some sweat it out on the court, others apply sunscreen in company – not always marital – leading to situations some describe as "photo blackmail".

The contrast between active and passive leisure, between noise and silence, reflects the diversity of uses of these sierra estates. And while the debate over who has the right to enjoy them intersects with broader demographic tensions – not detailed here – summer goes on with cold beers and rackets raised.