Yes, spring is already here, not to say summer is approaching! So let’s say you’re visiting the capital of Spain, and during your sightseeing tour you need some breath of fresh air, you need some greenery, you need some relaxation away from the crowded city centre!!! What’s the best way to enjoy such a warm day other than going to a park? We all know that what a park gives us is a place to relax, a place to relieve stress and at the same time to appreciate nature! Just think… all you see in the urban centre is just concrete! What are you waiting for? Grab your favourite book, wear your most comfortable clothes and enjoy a day into the abundant green. Well, since in my hypothesis I’ve mentioned that you’re visiting Madrid, it’s now radical to introduce you to Madrid’s biggest and most beautiful park, El Retiro!
El Parque del Buen Retiro
One of the most iconic park of Madrid, is the Parque del Buen Retiro. This green oasis in the centre of Madrid has 125 hectares and is home to over 15,000 trees. From a botanical point of view, the park includes some very important gardens; classical gardens of an Andalusian style, rose gardens and the Parterre Francés with the oldest tree in Madrid, a bald cypress that is believed to be 400 years old.
El Retiro - Jardines del Buen Retiro de Madrid
Parque de El Retiro, 28009 Madrid, EspañaOpened to the public since 1700, the park is a daily routine escape for locals and tourists who tend to seek for relaxation among its gardens. Besides being the “lungs” and the main source of fresh air in Madrid, the Retiro Park also provides its visitors with a variety of cultural, leisure and sports activities. Historical buildings, statues and palaces can all be found and admired while in Retiro. At the same time, its huge iconic lake, gives you the chance to rent a boat for a reasonable price and paddle around it. Visitors can also feed the ducks living around the pond!
While visiting the park, besides sunbathing and laying from corner to corner, keep in mind that bicycles, roller blades & running, are also some optional activities fitting perfectly in the park's atmosphere! Yoga groups, pilates, or skating groups can always be found around the park, and you’re always welcome to join!
El Palacio de Cristal!
Not many people add it to their must-visit list while traveling to Madrid, so listen carefully! This spectacular semi-hidden monument within the Parque del Retiro of Madrid was born with the intention of hosting Temporary International Art Exhibitions.
Palacio de Cristal, Madrid
Paseo República de Cuba, 4, 28009 Madrid, ΙσπανίαWhat fascinates its visitors is of course, its diaphanous completely glazed construction, that could very well be featured in Disney’s Frozen! Next to it there is an artificial lake that is just as impressive, so do not miss the chance to explore it! Well, this one is a bit smaller than the one mentioned above, but believe me it’s worth a visit!
The book fair
Last but not least, each year the Retiro Park hosts Madrid’s annual Book Fair . As a result, a big part of it is occupied by literature stands and independent bookstores, where you can actually find a variety of books and novels! Sometimes, even famous authors themselves, stroll to Retiro to sell and talk about their own books!
In any case, the Retiro Park is always a synonymous for freedom inside the city, leisure and sports.
Do not miss the chance to visit it, cause as a quote says, any day spent in a park is a good day even with rain! Enjoy!
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Chrisa Lepida
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