Without it, Madrid would not be Madrid, although it has always been an escape route from the frenetic rhythm of the city. The park of El Retiro, with almost 120 hectares, is one of those magical places of the Spanish capital that invites you to loose yourself and forget the daily hassles of its streets.
Considered as the green lung of the city, a location for all kinds of activities and events, the park of El Retiro has its origins linked to royalty. It was designed around 1640, on lands with dense vegetation with the aim of providing the court of Philip V an area for relaxation and recreation.
Within the limits of the park, it is worth mentioning the great artificial lake, where it is traditional to rent one of the small boats and enjoy a pleasant afternoon on its bank. Thea area of La Rosaleda, inspired by the Parisian Bois de Boulogne, the Fountain of La Alcachofa and the Angel Caido, or the impressive Crystal Palace, that in our days hosts different contemporary art exhibitions.
It is also essential to visit its statue promenade, that in reality is called the promenade of Argentina, one of the broadest and where you can enjoy a dozen sculptures of past kings of Spain. The avenue connects with the most famous entrance, the Puerta de España, that ends directly on the Alfonso XIII street.
The park has a privileged location, located between the streets Alcala, Poeta Esteban de Villegas, the avenue of Menéndez Pelayo and the street Alfonso XII, where one can observe one of the most exclusive boutique hotels in Madrid, situated in a palace of the XIX century. All around this area, one can stroll along observing the beautiful buildings that surround the Park and it is the perfect opportunity to discover the Majestic Madrid.
The charm of the elegant neighbourhood of Salamanca in Madrid becomes more bohemian atmosphere within the park, where all diversity is a reason for harmony: singers, traveling theatre plays, taichí, yoga or Pilates sessions, children’s games, picnics and improvised film sets… The Park of El Retiro is the reflection of its society, restless, somewhat rebellious, welcoming, hospitable and calm.
Hotels near the park of El Retiro:
