By any standards, Madrid is a very green city. With over 40 parks comprising 33 million square meters of land, you won’t find it too hard to escape from it all whenever the urge takes hold. So take a break and head for one of the five best parks in Madrid for some peace and relaxation.
1. Parque del Retiro
Parque del Retiro is the biggest, and arguably the best, of all the parks in Madrid. With 130 hectares of woodland, you will find plenty of shade here to escape from the hot midday sun. Its centerpiece is a large lake, around which numerous street theater performances take place, and if you feel like taking a rowing boat out on the lake then this is also a good option. Alternately, head to the Rosadela (Rose Garden) to admire the stunning display of colorful flowers, and there are even a number of chess tables in the park if you feel like challenging one of the local experts. To reach the Parque del Retiro, take the Metro to either Ibiza, Menéndez Pelayo or Retiro.
2. Casa de Campo
At over 1,700 hectares, the Casa de Campo (literally Country House) is another of the biggest parks in Madrid. The park is packed full of things to see and do, including the Parque Zoológico and the Parque de Atracciones. There is also a large lake to row on, numerous tennis courts, and a school for bullfighters where you can watch the fighters get their training. Located on the bank of the Manzanares River in the west of the city, it can be reached on the Metro at Lago or Batán.
3. Jardín Botánico
El Real Jardín Botánical de Madrid is found next to the Prado Museum, and makes for an attractive space to explore. Known for housing over 30,000 species of plants and trees from five different continents, the most stunning of these are the wild roses. There are also a number of state-of-the-art greenhouses being used for research which house some interesting plants. Located on the Metro at Atocha, it stays open up until either 6pm or 9pm depending on the season.
4. Parque del Oeste
This British style park can be reached on the Metro at Moncloa, and is packed full of open grassy spaces. Full of large trees to seek out shade and adorned with interesting statues, the most important feature of the park is the Rosadela, which holds the annual international rose competition. You can also take the Teleférico to Casa de Campo from here.
5. Parque Quinta de la Fuente
This park is packed full of picturesque fountains, attractive pathways and stunning flower beds. At only 7.4 hectares it is not the largest of the city’s parks, but it makes up for this through its pleasant vibes. It can be reached by taking the Metro to Ventas.
Photo of Parco del Retiro, Madrid originally posted by sabr.ii.n.ee
Topic: Top five Monday |
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Tags: family, green travel, Madrid
About the author
Jon has travelled widely across Europe, and is always keen to share the hidden gems he has discovered whilst on the road. He is a freelance writer specialising in travel writing, and his dream destination is Madagasgar.
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