Royal Chill and Mountain Breezes in San Lorenzo de El Escorial

#summervacay San Lorenzo de El Escorial is one of those places that feels fancy and relaxed at the same time. You roll in and there’s this massive royal monastery-palace situation that’s just casually sitting there like it owns the whole valley. The building is huge and super impressive, but the town around it is what gives it charm. It’s tucked up in the mountains, so the air feels fresh and the views go on forever. You can wander through the old streets, grab a coffee or some tapas, and just take it all in. The vibe is calm but not boring, lots of locals, weekenders from Madrid, and chill outdoor spots to hang out. If you’re into history, the monastery is worth checking out. If not, just walking around the gardens and soaking up the peaceful energy is more than enough. It’s an easy escape from the city without feeling like you’re in the middle of nowhere. Bring sunglasses and a slow pace.