Barcelona, the enchanting capital of Catalonia, is renowned for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. But amidst the bustling city streets lies a treasure trove of serene green spaces, waiting to be discovered. In this guide, we’ll unveil some of the most beautiful and lesser-known gardens and parks in Barcelona, providing the perfect escape for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil retreat from the city’s busy pace.
Jardins de la Tamarita: Barcelona’s Enchanting Hidden Oasis
Located in the upscale Sarrià-Sant Gervasi district, the Jardins de la Tamarita is a little-known gem that offers a peaceful escape from the busy streets of Barcelona. Once a private garden for the wealthy Craywinckel family, it was later acquired by the Tamarita family, who redesigned and expanded the space. Now open to the public, visitors can discover the park’s rich history, lush greenery, and charming features.
History and Design: The Jardins de la Tamarita was initially designed in the early 20th century by landscape architect Nicolau M. Rubió i Tudurí, who also played a significant role in shaping many other parks and gardens throughout the city. The garden’s design showcases a mix of French and English styles, with elegant fountains, charming statues, and romantic pathways throughout. The park still contains several elements from the original Craywinckel estate, such as a neo-Gothic pavilion and a small pond.
Lush Greenery and Scenic Spots: The park’s varied greenery includes towering trees, vibrant flowerbeds, and meticulously trimmed hedges, creating an idyllic atmosphere. One of the most striking features is the pergola covered in blooming wisteria, which creates a dreamy canopy of purple blossoms during the spring months. The garden also features several inviting benches and seating areas, perfect for a quiet moment of contemplation or a romantic rendezvous.
Art and Architecture: The Jardins de la Tamarita boasts a collection of sculptures and architectural elements that add to its charm. The neo-Gothic pavilion, reminiscent of a miniature castle, serves as a focal point of the park. A classical-style temple, adorned with Ionic columns, houses a beautiful statue of Eros, the Greek god of love. Various other statues are scattered throughout the garden, depicting mythological figures and charming animals.
How to Get There and Opening Hours: The Jardins de la Tamarita is easily accessible by public transportation, with the FGC train stop Pàdua being the closest option. Alternatively, you can take buses 22, 75, or V15 to nearby stops. The park is open daily from 10:00 am to dusk, making it the perfect spot for a mid-morning stroll or an evening escape.
The Jardins de la Tamarita is a hidden treasure in the heart of Barcelona, offering a serene and romantic environment for visitors to explore. Steeped in history and adorned with beautiful artwork, this enchanting garden is a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life.
/bima/HABITAT_URBA/780355214061615.jpg)
Tucked away in the Horta-Guinardó district, the Jardins del Princep de Girona is a charming, lesser-known park in Barcelona. This family-friendly green space features a beautiful pond, captivating sculptures, and a playground for children. Offering a tranquil atmosphere and plenty of open space, the Jardins del Princep de Girona is the perfect location for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic.
History and Layout: Originally a private garden for the Desvalls family, the Jardins del Princep de Girona was opened to the public in the 1970s. The park’s design is inspired by French and Italian gardens, with symmetrical flowerbeds, tree-lined pathways, and a central pond adorned with fountains. The garden’s name pays tribute to the Prince of Girona, a title held by the heir to the Spanish crown.
Pond and Sculptures: The heart of the Jardins del Princep de Girona is its enchanting pond, which features a central island accessible via a small bridge. The island is home to a striking sculpture called “El nen de la rutlla” by Joan Rebull, depicting a young boy holding a hoop. Other sculptures scattered throughout the park include “El nen amb peix” by Frederic Marès and “El nen amb el gos” by Ramon Sabi.
Family-Friendly Activities: The Jardins del Princep de Girona is an ideal spot for families, thanks to its ample green spaces and a playground designed for children. The playground area features swings, slides, and climbing structures, providing hours of fun for the little ones. The park’s grassy areas and shaded spots make it perfect for picnics, while the tranquil atmosphere allows parents to unwind and enjoy a peaceful moment.
Accessibility and Opening Hours: The Jardins del Princep de Girona is easily accessible by public transportation, with the nearest metro station being Alfons X (L4) or buses 39, 55, and 114 stopping nearby. The park is open daily from 10:00 am to sunset, providing ample time for visitors to explore and enjoy its serene ambiance.
A visit to the Jardins del Princep de Girona offers a relaxing and family-friendly experience, away from the hustle and bustle of Barcelona’s city center. With its beautiful pond, captivating sculptures, and child-friendly amenities, this charming park is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by both locals and tourists alike.
The Parc del Laberint d’Horta, situated in the Horta-Guinardó district, is a historic park that offers a unique experience to its visitors. The park’s centerpiece is a captivating cypress maze, while it also boasts romantic gardens, terraces, and stunning views of the city. As the oldest preserved garden in Barcelona, the Parc del Laberint d’Horta is an off-the-beaten-path destination that promises a memorable adventure.
History and Design: The park was designed in the late 18th century by Italian architect Domenico Bagutti and was part of the estate of the Desvalls family. With its neoclassical and romantic styles, the park represents a harmonious blend of art, nature, and architecture. In 1971, the park was acquired by the city and opened to the public.
The Labyrinth: The iconic labyrinth, constructed from 2,150 meticulously pruned cypress trees, is the park’s main attraction. Visitors can navigate through the maze’s winding paths, discovering hidden nooks and surprises along the way. At the center of the labyrinth, a statue of Eros, the Greek god of love, stands as a symbol of the romantic atmosphere that permeates the garden.
Gardens and Architectural Elements: Beyond the maze, the Parc del Laberint d’Horta features beautifully landscaped gardens, terraces, and water features. The lower garden is adorned with neoclassical sculptures, while the romantic upper garden is filled with flowerbeds, groves, and a picturesque waterfall. The park also boasts a 19th-century neoclassical pavilion and a romantic-style bridge that spans a small stream.
Family-Friendly Amenities: The park offers a range of amenities for families, including a playground, picnic areas, and open spaces for outdoor games. With its tranquil environment and diverse attractions, the Parc del Laberint d’Horta provides a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Accessibility and Opening Hours: The Parc del Laberint d’Horta is accessible by public transportation, with the nearest metro station being Mundet (L3) or buses 27, 60, 73, and 76 stopping nearby. The park is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 am to sunset. On Wednesdays and Sundays, admission to the park is free, but it is important to note that capacity is limited to preserve the garden’s delicate ecosystem.
The Parc del Laberint d’Horta offers a unique and enchanting experience for visitors to Barcelona. With its historic labyrinth, romantic gardens, and family-friendly amenities, this hidden gem invites exploration and discovery. For those looking to escape the city’s busy streets, a visit to the Parc del Laberint d’Horta is an adventure not to be missed.
Tucked away in the heart of Eixample, the Jardins de la Torre de les Aigües is a hidden oasis that offers a unique urban beach experience in Barcelona. Surrounding a repurposed water tower, this charming park features a small pool, sandy areas, and lush greenery, providing a refreshing respite from the bustling city life.
History and Design: The Jardins de la Torre de les Aigües was originally a private garden designed by architect Josep Amargós in the late 19th century. In 1987, the space was transformed into a public park by architect Luis Pena Ganchegui, who preserved the historic water tower as the centerpiece of the garden. The park’s design is inspired by Mediterranean landscapes, combining elements of water, sand, and vegetation to create a peaceful urban beach atmosphere.
The Water Tower and Pool: The historic water tower, which once supplied water to the surrounding neighborhood, now serves as a symbol of the park’s unique character. The tower is surrounded by a shallow pool, perfect for cooling off during the hot summer months. Children can safely splash and play in the water, while adults can dip their feet in the pool and relax on the park’s comfortable seating areas.
Green Spaces and Play Areas: In addition to the pool and sandy areas, the Jardins de la Torre de les Aigües is home to numerous green spaces filled with trees and vegetation. The park also features a playground for children, equipped with swings, slides, and climbing structures. The park’s diverse environments make it a perfect spot for family outings and leisurely afternoons.
Accessibility and Opening Hours: The Jardins de la Torre de les Aigües is easily accessible by public transportation, with the nearest metro stations being Diagonal (L3, L5) and Verdaguer (L4, L5), or buses 6, 33, 34, and H8 stopping nearby. The park is open daily from 10:00 am to sunset, providing ample time for visitors to enjoy its refreshing ambiance.
The Jardins de la Torre de les Aigües is a hidden treasure that offers a unique urban beach experience in the heart of Barcelona. With its historic water tower, shallow pool, and family-friendly amenities, this enchanting park provides a relaxing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Jardins de la Torre de les Aigües is a must-visit destination for a refreshing break in Barcelona.
Perched on Montjuïc hill, the Jardí Botànic de Barcelona is a lush oasis that showcases the diverse flora of the Mediterranean region. With a focus on plants native to Catalonia and other Mediterranean climates, this botanical garden provides not only a serene environment for visitors but also an educational experience that highlights the importance of plant conservation and biodiversity.
History and Mission: Established in 1999, the Jardí Botànic de Barcelona replaced an older botanical garden that had been damaged by a storm. The new garden was designed to preserve and showcase the unique flora of the Mediterranean region while promoting research, conservation, and public education. The garden’s mission extends to fostering an appreciation for plant life and raising awareness about the importance of preserving biodiversity.
Garden Collections and Layout: The Jardí Botànic de Barcelona spans approximately 14 hectares and is divided into five sections, each representing a different Mediterranean climate region: South Africa, California, Chile, Australia, and the Mediterranean Basin. The garden’s winding pathways lead visitors through various landscapes, showcasing diverse plant species, including many that are native to Catalonia. The thoughtful design of the garden also incorporates spectacular views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
Educational Programs and Activities: The Jardí Botànic de Barcelona offers a variety of educational programs and activities for visitors of all ages. Guided tours, workshops, and seasonal events help to engage visitors and deepen their understanding of the garden’s plant collections and their ecological importance. The garden also hosts temporary exhibitions that focus on specific themes related to botany, conservation, and the environment.
Accessibility and Opening Hours: The Jardí Botànic de Barcelona is accessible by public transportation, with the nearest metro stations being Espanya (L1, L3) and Poble Sec (L3), or buses 13, 55, and 150 stopping nearby. The garden is open daily, with its opening hours varying depending on the season: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm in winter, 10:00 am to 7:00 pm in spring and fall, and 10:00 am to 8:00 pm in summer.
The Jardí Botànic de Barcelona offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life while showcasing the fascinating world of Mediterranean flora. With its diverse plant collections, engaging educational programs, and breathtaking views, this botanical garden is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and anyone interested in learning more about Catalonia’s rich biodiversity.
Perched on the slopes of Montjuïc, the Jardins de Mossèn Costa i Llobera is a unique garden dedicated to the fascinating world of cacti and succulent plants. Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, this hidden gem showcases an extensive collection of rare and exotic species, offering visitors a one-of-a-kind experience that highlights the beauty and resilience of these desert-adapted plants.
History and Concept: The Jardins de Mossèn Costa i Llobera was established in the 1960s by Catalan landscape architect Joaquim Maria Casamor, who sought to create a space dedicated to showcasing the diverse beauty of cacti and succulents. The garden’s name honors the Catalan poet Mossèn Costa i Llobera, who was known for his deep appreciation of nature. The garden’s unique location and climate provide an ideal environment for these drought-tolerant plants to thrive.
Plant Collections: The Jardins de Mossèn Costa i Llobera boasts one of the most important collections of cacti and succulents in Europe, featuring over 800 species from various parts of the world. The garden’s terraced design takes advantage of the natural slope of Montjuïc, creating a visually stunning landscape filled with intriguing shapes and textures. Highlights of the collection include towering saguaro cacti, vibrant aloe plants, and massive barrel cacti, among many others.
Stunning Views and Sculptures: In addition to the captivating plant life, the Jardins de Mossèn Costa i Llobera offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea, the Port of Barcelona, and the city’s skyline. Scattered throughout the garden are several sculptures, including “La Serp” by Andreu Alfaro and “The Wounded Star” by Rebecca Horn, which further enhance the garden’s unique ambiance.
Accessibility and Opening Hours: The Jardins de Mossèn Costa i Llobera is accessible by public transportation, with the nearest metro station being Paral·lel (L2, L3) and buses 21 and D20 stopping nearby. The garden is open daily from 10:00 am to sunset, providing ample time for visitors to explore and enjoy its mesmerizing beauty.
The Jardins de Mossèn Costa i Llobera is a hidden treasure that offers a unique and enchanting experience for plant enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. With its remarkable collection of cacti and succulents, stunning views, and tranquil atmosphere, this garden is a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life of Barcelona.
Nestled in the Gràcia district, Parc de la Creueta del Coll is a versatile urban park that offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. From its large central pond to its picturesque green spaces, playgrounds, and sports facilities, this park is a hidden gem that provides a relaxing retreat from the bustling city life.
History and Design: Parc de la Creueta del Coll was designed by architects Martorell, Bohigas, and Mackay and was inaugurated in 1987. The park occupies a former quarry site, which has been transformed into a multi-functional green space that blends harmoniously with its natural surroundings. One of the park’s highlights is a stunning sculpture called “Elogi de l’Aigua” by the famous Catalan artist Eduardo Chillida, which seemingly floats above the central pond.
The Central Pond and Green Spaces: The park’s main attraction is its large central pond, which serves as a recreational swimming area during the summer months. The pond is surrounded by an array of trees and plants, creating a serene and picturesque environment for visitors to enjoy. In addition to the pond, the park offers plenty of green spaces, perfect for picnics, sunbathing, or simply relaxing with a good book.
Playgrounds and Sports Facilities: Parc de la Creueta del Coll is an ideal destination for families, featuring several playgrounds with swings, slides, and climbing structures. The park also offers a variety of sports facilities, including basketball courts, a soccer field, and a pétanque area. These amenities provide opportunities for visitors to engage in physical activities and enjoy the outdoors.
Accessibility and Opening Hours: Parc de la Creueta del Coll is easily accessible by public transportation, with the nearest metro stations being El Coll / La Teixonera (L5) or buses 87, 92, and 114 stopping nearby. The park is open daily from 10:00 am to sunset, allowing visitors plenty of time to explore and enjoy its many offerings.
Parc de la Creueta del Coll is a multifaceted urban oasis that caters to a diverse range of interests and ages. With its central pond, picturesque green spaces, playgrounds, and sports facilities, this park offers a welcoming environment for relaxation, play, and physical activity. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Parc de la Creueta del Coll is a must-visit destination for a refreshing break in Barcelona.
Barcelona’s secret gardens offer a serene escape from the bustling city life. From lush romantic gardens to unique botanical collections, these green sanctuaries provide a peaceful retreat for visitors and locals alike. Next time you find yourself in Barcelona, take a break from the well-trodden tourist path and explore the city’s hidden green gems.
